Donated adaptive cycle helps more people access cycling

617 words
3 min read
Published July 2021

This story was originally published in July 2021. It shares a donation of an adaptive cycle and its journey to a community cycling charity. We are keeping it as an archive because it highlights the ongoing value of inclusive cycling.

A generous donation with a lasting impact

Customer Ted Hornsey donated a Van Raam Easy Sport recumbent cycle after using it for around four years.

Ted had experienced a stroke while on holiday in Australia. After this, he used the cycle to stay active and continue cycling. As a keen cyclist, he had already enjoyed many long-distance rides, including cycling holidays in Ireland and Scotland, as well as completing the Great Yorkshire Bike Ride.

When he no longer needed the cycle, Ted wanted it to support someone else. Because of this, he chose to donate it so it could continue to make a difference.

Passing the cycle on

We worked with Ted to find a suitable new home for the cycle. In addition, we wanted to ensure it went to an organisation that supports accessible cycling.

We selected Pedal People, a Brighton-based charity. They provide year-round inclusive cycling experiences using side-by-side tandems and recumbent cycles.

As a result, the donated cycle joined their fleet and began supporting more people to get out cycling.

Meet “Teddy”

Pedal People named the cycle “Teddy”, after Ted and his family.

Naming the cycle helped connect its history with its new purpose. It also gave riders a sense of continuity and story.

Ted Hornsey on his Van Raam Easy Sport that he kindly donated to us to pass on to someone who needed it

Impact at Pedal People

The team at Pedal People welcomed Teddy warmly. They shared how valuable the cycle has been for their work:

“Pedal People Brighton are super chuffed to welcome donated recumbent ‘Teddy’. Our first generously donated and already pootling out weekly. Perfect for fun, confidence, supported and more relaxed seated cycling ideal for anyone plus those living post-stroke or with other health challenges. It’s always lovely to know a cycle’s history and Ted’s kindness means more people off our waiting list and out with the wind in their hair, often for the first time in many years. The confidence and sense of freedom this specialist adaptable bike brings is daily magic!”
— Elly, Captain at Pedal People

Real experiences on the cycle

Riders quickly embraced the cycle. Many described it as comfortable, stable, and fun to use.

For example, one rider shared:

“I loved my first go on the recumbent trike, it was stylish and different. I had no problem keeping up with the electric tandems. Being low to the ground made the ride feel sporty and fun. It was really intuitive to use and felt very light. The seating position was very comfortable. The ride nice and smooth too, I would be quite happy to ride for ages. I look forward to taking it out again.”