iCan Bike Camp
iCan Bike Camp is a program offered through the iCan Shine organization and hosted by Variety. We understand that the vast majority of people with disabilities never have the experience of independently riding a conventional two-wheel bicycle during their lifetime. Research shows that over 80% of people with Autism and 90% of people with Down syndrome never experience this thrill. Defying these odds is why we exist!
Programs
iCan Bike Program Overview:
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2024 dates TBD!
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We will have approximately 40 riders each week of the camp; however, because there are five 75-minute sessions each day, there will be no more than 8 riders at any one time at camp which ensures more individualized attention for your rider
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Each rider, accompanied by their parent or guardian, will attend the same 75- minute session each day
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We will seek to provide the same volunteers all week for your rider to create a familiar, predictable and safe environment
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Riders will begin on a specialized adapted bicycle (roller bike) designed to teach them to balance appropriately
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On the second day of camp, in addition to riding the roller bike, riders will participate in a specialized tandem bike ride with iCan Bike staff which provides motivation as well as instructional opportunities
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The first two days of bike camp (Mon & Tues) will take place solely inside on the adapted roller bikes
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Roller bikes gradually introduce increased instability to riders as the different rollers are introduced enabling riders to sequence through such bikes at their own individual pace
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On the third day (Wed), some riders may transition to a conventional two-wheel bike once they have sequenced through the roller bikes
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Once riders are initially successful on a conventional two-wheel bike (demonstrate good balance and ability to brake and stop), they will transition to the outdoor riding area with their volunteer supporters
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The process of transitioning to a two-wheel bike riding outside may happen Wednesday, Thursday or Friday and is based on each rider’s individual pace through our sequence of roller bikes
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Rider must meet all of the following requirements:
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Have a disability
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At least 8 years old at the start of camp
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Maximum weight of 220 lbs
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Able to walk without assistive device
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Able to side step to both sides
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Minimum inseam of 20” (measure from floor while wearing sneakers)
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Willing and able to wear a properly fitted bike helmet
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Able to attend the same 75-minute session for all 5 days of camp