We had a busy year setting up the groundwork for growth in future years. If I had to summarize 2025 I in one word I would say foundational. The top highlights include
1. Expanded Headquarters: Expanded our headquarters in San Jose so we can fit more handcycles (previously were limited to just two). Now we have an official looking entrance and a lot more space to have our handcycling lessons (and soon group rides).
2. Handcycle for quadriplegics: Bought a new Stricker Tetra Lipo Smart handcycle for quadriplegics. We can finally serve quadriplegics or users with limited hand function. This is critical as ~60% of SCI injuries are at the cervical level and quadriplegics are not able to squeeze a brake lever or shift using a regular shifter due to very limited hand function. The Stricker handcycle has a smart reverse pedal brake that still allows you to release the crank and adjust the position of the pedals if need be. Shifting as well as adjusting the level of e-assist is done with the chin.
3. Official Able Bodied Swag/Booth: We designed bright yellow Able Bodied T-Shirts and created posters and banners for events. Makes us feel totally “official”. Our first “official” booth was at the fourth annual Kelly Brush Fundraiser in Mill Valley. Able Bodied was the top fundraising team at the event.
4. New Able Bodied Ambassador in Poland: We delivered a Top End Force 3 a new Able Bodied Ambassador in Poland, Adrian. Adrian was injured 10 years ago when he was only 22 and had a 1 year old son. We built his handcycle for a record low cost of only $1,200. We found a deal for a used Top End Force 3 for $550 and added a motor and battery from Ali Express for $500 and added premium tires for $150.. Now Adrian is ziping around Poland and goes on 50km rides on a regular basis. He also wants to be an active #AbleBodiedAmbassador and show others his handcycle. He joined a radio program for Radio Lodz with Wojtek to discuss Able Bodied.
5. Launching wiki.ablebodied.org: We are launching a new map/wiki that will be the basis of our open source platform to share information about handcycling locations around the world, accessible travel guides, as well as our map of #AbleBodiedAmbassadors. This way our new Get1Help2 participants will be able to connect with someone in their area who can guide them through finding a handcycle to test ride as well as help them with grants and funding source that are available in their country. This will be the cornerstone of our mission to help connect people with disabilities around the world. Should be up in the coming weeks.
If you click on one of the locations (for example Able Bodied San jose), you will navigate to a page that tells you what services are offered, what handcycles are available, as well local info such as accessible hotels in the area as well as recommended routes.
