The speed and excitement inherent in all Cycling competitions is relatively new for athletes with a disability. The sport began to be developed by blind cyclists who first competed using tandem bicycles. Cycling was introduced as a Paralympic Sport in Seoul in 1988 and is now practiced in more than 40 countries. Today in addition to athletes with blindness/visual impairment, cyclists with cerebral palsy, amputations or other physical disabilities can participate in classes depending on their degree of function and the skills required for Cycling. Depending on their classification, athletes use a bicycle, tricycle, tandem or hand cycle. The competition programme includes Track and Road events for individuals and teams with Sprints, Individual Pursuits, 1,000m Time Trial, Road Races and Road Time Trials.
To view more Cycling photos, please visit our Flickr page.
For more information on Paralympic Cycling, please visit US Paralympics.
Recreational Handcylcing in the Chicagoland area
Tour the Lake – 28 miles
Slow speeds and very safe
S.P.I.N Program – 10, 20, and 30 miles
Meets once or twice a month and has integrated various levels of interest.
Bike the Drive – 14 to 30 miles
Happens once a year (Memorial Day weekend), traveling at medium speeds, and is very safe.
Boulevard and Lakefront ride – 15, 40, 100 miles
Happens once a year, is mostly recreational cycling, and is very safe.
Chicago Triathalon – 13 miles
Happens once a year, requires a high level of endurance, is competitive, and you can compete in a team or as an individual
North Shore Century – 15, 25, 50 miles, and Century
Usually done at medium speeds in urban areas and fast roads, is very safe, but also can be competitive
Columbus day ride - 10 miles
Put on by the Chicago Park District
Navy Pier and Millennium Park Bicycle Rentals
Handcycles for recreational use are available for rent