Mobility Info - UK
National Association For Bikers
National Association For Bikers With A Disability
The National Association For Bikers With A Disability (www.nabd.org.uk) is a registered charity specialising in motorcycle adaptations for the disabled. Founded in the Manchester area in 1991 in order to adapt a motorcycle for a rider who had lost his lower left leg in an accident, the N.A.B.D. is the world leader in motorcycling for the disabled. Now with more than 5,000 members, the charity has helped over 7,000 people in the intervening years.
With only one paid employee, the N.A.B.D. is primarily run by volunteers, so all the money it raises goes towards its charitable work. It offers grants from between £100 and £1,400 to adapt motorcycles but its main purpose is to carry out the adaptations to suit individual requirements.
For those who have lost a left or right leg or who have restricted strength and mobility, a range of solutions is possible. Left or right twin levers, thumb operated rear brakes and push-button electric gear changers circumvent the need to use the damaged leg. Crossover linkage to the left or right side, as appropriate, is another ingenious solution, as is a hand-operated lever for the side stand.
The problems posed by right arm amputation or impairment can be overcome by a left-hand throttle, left-hand twin levers and a left-heel brake. Similarly, a right-hand thumb brake and automatic gearbox are solutions for a left arm disability. Special “easy clutch” kits are ideal for riders with reduced hand strength or mobility.
The N.A.B.D. has even helped wheelchair users take to the open road. Sidecar units or trikes provide a third wheel that solves the main problem of lack of stability. Adaptations for wheelchair users can encompass full hand controls so the legs do not need to be used. Seating and back support adaptations, such as modified pillion seats, may be all that is required for some riders. Whatever the problem that needs to be overcome, the N.A.B.D. can almost certainly find a solution.
The charity also carries out assessments for people who wish to regain their motorcycle licence and loans adapted vehicles for training and test purposes. The N.A.B.D. is also in a good position to provide advice and support on matters like insurance, licensing and other legal issues surrounding motorcycling for the disabled.
Social and fundraising events, including rallies, are an important facet of the charity’s activity. They also issue a quarterly magazine, Open House, featuring articles on adaptations, matters of interest and news of future events. An online shop sells a range of merchandise including clothing, caps and badges.
Membership of the N.A.B.D. costs £20 per annum (£15 renewal) and members need not be disabled. A family of up to 2 adults and 2 children can join for a combined fee of £30. Junior membership costs £10.50.
