Achilles and Citi Bike Adaptive Cycling Program

 
 

Achilles International is proud to partner with the Citi Bike® team in expanding our Adaptive Cycling Program in New York City. We offer free, weekly adaptive cycling sessions for people with disabilities, especially first time riders in parks in Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx and Queens. Together, we are advancing access to recreational opportunities for those who may be experiencing an economic hardship, but wish to give adaptive cycling a try.

The program runs from May 25 through early November. Sign up below as an athlete with a disability or volunteer.

People living with disabilities can reserve a tandem bike or handcycle for recreational use. They cannot be used for commuting elsewhere. Achilles staff and volunteer guides will be on-site to answer any questions and help train new riders.

There is no cost to participate in the program, however, reservations must be made in advance. Helmets are required at all times while cycling. Please bring your own helmet if possible, otherwise one will be provided for use during your ride. For additional questions or local volunteer opportunities, contact Francesco Magisano, Director, Achilles NYC Metro Region at fmagisano@achillesinternational.org.

Though specialized wheelchair racing practices are on pause, contact nyc@achillesinternational.org for more information on accessing a racing wheelchair at an existing adaptive cycling workout at one of Achilles’ other workout locations.

Wheelchair racing is a Paralympic sport designed for athletes with lower limb disabilities. Typical events range from track events like the 100 meter and 400 meter, to road races like 5K races and marathons. Athletes in the Achilles Racing Wheelchair Program will complete a track workout every week together to train for the annual Achilles Hope & Possibility® 4M Presented By TD Bank in Central Park each June.

*Please note, upon clicking the “Sign Up” or “Volunteer” buttons, you will be redirected and prompted to set up a free account via Rosterfy, our community management tool. You will then be asked to complete a free background check via our partner Sterling Volunteers, with an optional $15 cost. This ensures the safety of the entire Achilles community at all workouts and events. Once completed and approved, you will then receive an email confirmation and be able to login to your dashboard and register or volunteer for upcoming workouts.

HOW TO REGISTER

  • Achilles athlete posing on a handcycle in between two guides

    Brooklyn

    McCarren Park: Mondays, 3:00 PM

    Prospect Park: Thursdays, 5:00 PM

  • Two female Achilles athletes posing together on their handcycles

    Bronx

    Williamsbridge Oval: Wednesdays, 8:00 AM

    St. Mary’s Park: Wednesdays, 12:00 PM

  • Amputee Achilles athlete posing with adaptive equipment in front of a U-Haul truck

    Manhattan

    Central Park: Tuesdays, 5:00 PM

    Saturdays, 8:00 AM

  • Handcyclist and volunteer

    Queens

    Flushing Meadows: Thursdays, 12:00 PM

    Sundays, 9:00 AM

VOLUNTEER FOR ACHILLES

Want to help us make a difference? Volunteer with Achilles at an upcoming workout. Your support can help an athlete living with a disability enjoy a ride or a run through the park safely in a fun environment.

WHAT IS AN ADAPTIVE BIKE?

There are various types of adaptive bicycles designed for riders of varying abilities and needs. A handcycle allows riders who may have lower limb mobility impairments, such as amputation or paralysis, to propel forward using their arms. A tandem bicycle is designed for two riders, allowing a sighted pilot to guide a person who may be blind, living with low vision, or unable to safely navigate themselves.

ABOUT CITI BIKE®

Citi Bike® is New York City’s bike share system, with over 23,000 bikes and 1,500 stations. Citi Bike® is an affordable public transportation option for running errands, commuting, taking a scenic ride, or simply as a last-mile connection to other forms of transit.

Citi Bike, Citi Bike and Arc Design and the Blue Wave are registered service marks of Citigroup Inc.