Biking

They say you never forget how to ride a bike—and the thrill of gliding along on two wheels can make you feel like a kid again.

With the right equipment and a little support, you can still experience the joy of cycling—for exercise, for competition, or just to get out in the great outdoors—no matter your level of vision.

Riding a tandem, or a bicycle built for two, is one great way to get rolling. And if you don’t have a partner to ride with, there are many organizations that help people with vision loss get into tandem biking. They can pair you up with another rider, and even help you find the right bike.

When two people are riding a tandem, the rider in front is responsible for watching the road or pathway, steering the bike, and changing the gears. Both riders pedal and use the brakes.

Whether you’re pairing up with a friend or meeting a new partner, get together before you go out for a ride—to talk about your riding style, how to work together, and how to communicate on the bike.

Decide how to signal each other when you want to speed up or slow down—or stop pedaling and just coast.

You can also practice getting on the bike and how to start rolling. This step can be a little tricky at first, but you’ll get the hang of it quickly.

Once you’re out on a ride, the rider in front will tell you about upcoming turns and changes in the road’s surface, as well as when it’s time to use the brakes. You can also ask them to describe the scenery.

Be sure to enjoy listening to your surroundings, too. Birds in the trees, cars on the roadway, a distant tractor in the field—sounds like these help you build a mental picture of the landscape and enjoy your trip even more.

If a tandem bike isn’t for you, there are other ways to enjoy cycling with low vision—or no vision. There are special bikes that let two people ride next to each other.

If it works for your vision level to ride your own bike and follow a buddy, having them wear bright, reflective clothing will help a lot. And it’s a great idea for you to dress in bright colors, too. Many cyclists who are visually impaired wear a neon-colored vest to remind drivers—and other bikers—to be extra cautious.

When you’re riding on separate bikes, a hands-free, 2-way radio device in one ear makes it easy to communicate back and forth. Check the local rules in your area for a safe ride with headphones.

And speaking of safety, there are bike helmets that have sun visors built right in—as well as visors you can attach—to help protect your eyes from glare. Of course, sunglasses protect your eyes from glare, too—and also from any pesky bugs.

For more tips on riding safely, adapting bikes—and where to find a pre-owned bicycle that’s perfect for you—see the Resource section of this workshop.

As always, if you need more information or you've got your own tips to share, contact a Hadley learning expert. Of course, as with anything new, give yourself time, patience, and practice, and you'll get there.