Rifton Adaptive Tricycle


Many of us can recall the feeling of freedom when we first learned to ride a bike. As we would gather speed, the wind whipping our hair and our legs outspread, we would coast down our favorite neighborhood hill while trying to reach the bottom without losing our balance. While children with physical disabilities may not be able to careen recklessly down hills on a two-wheeler, they can still experience the joy of freedom and mobility that a bike offers.

With current assistive technologies, children with physical disabilities no longer have to be confined to a wheelchair all day. Assistive technology devices are mechanical aids which substitute for or enhance the function of some physical or mental ability that is impaired. Examples of those who may need assistive devices are children with cerebral palsy, developmental delays, muscular dystrophy, traumatic injuries and other physical disabilities. Some of the most useful assistive devices are those that increase mobility while at the same time provide therapeutic benefits.
The Rifton Adaptive Tricycles  offered by Rehabmart  provides all the fun of a tricycle with all the benefits that come with therapeutic, reciprocal exercise. Reciprocal exercise, which is achieved by an alternating crosswise movement of the limbs such as riding a bicycle, has been shown to improve balance, circulation, increase leg strength, range of motion and improve endurance in disabled children. Regular use of this product can prevent medical complications that may result from immobility such as skin breakdown, muscular contractures and orthopedic deformities. Long-term use can result in stronger muscles, bone and muscle growth, improved eye-hand coordination and improvement of large motor skills. In addition to physical benefits from the use of the Rifton Adaptive Tricyle, children often experience intangible benefits such as increased confidence and self-esteem achieved through the freedom and fun this product provides.

The Rifton Tricycle Medium model (R130) serves children up to 160 lbs and is fully adjustable so it can grow with your child. It is also available in Rifton Tricycle Small (for children up to 150 lbs) and Rifton Tricycle Large  (up to 200 lbs). The small and medium models have a choice of seat sizes, large or small, that are upholstered for comfort. An optional trunk support system assists riders who have trouble remaining upright while seated. An optional headrest is also available that can be adjusted both horizontally and vertically. Handlebars are fully adjustable with a simple twist of a knob for height and come with two options. Standard handlebars come with handgrips and an optional handbrake. Foam-padded loop handlebars provide extra forearm support. Other optional extras include a front or rear guide bar which helps caregivers guide the bike for those riders who need extra assistance. An optional stationary stand converts the tricycle into a stationary trainer for inclement weather days or for extra pedaling practice. Rifton Tricycles are currently available in lime green, red, and blue.

                                                    From library.rehabmart.com

One of the best aspects of the Rifton Adaptive Tricycle is safety. It meets or exceeds ANSI (American National Standards Institute) for special needs tricycles and has many built-in safety features. Some of these include a low-center of gravity for stability, a parking brake, safety belt and puncture-proof BMX tires. The Rifton Adaptive Tricycle was specially designed to make getting off and on the bike easy, with it's open design and low transfer step. Hook and loop straps on the self-leveling pedals insure a child's feet are secure and safe. Level pedals are maintained by a front pulley system which is especially important for children whose extreme muscle tone often forces the pedal downward.
                                From library.rehabmart.com                From library.rehabmart.com

By riding the Rifton Adaptive Tricyle, children with physical disabilities reap numerous therapeutic benefits while enjoying a sense of freedom they may never have had before. Best of all, children can practice their pedaling skills at home with friends and family, away from hospitals or clinics. It may not be a BMX dirt bike or a tricked-out two-wheeler with pegs for friends to ride along, but the Rifton Adaptive Tricycle can help a disabled child feel the joy of mobility and the wind in their hair.


Rachel Huber, Medical Consumer Writer
and
Hulet Smith, OT
RehabMart Team Leader & CEO