iCan Bike camp helps kids with disabilities learn to ride a bike

FULTON – The week-long iCan Bike camp kicked off Monday at the Fulton YMCA.

The camp is for people with disabilities who want to learn how to bike. According to the organization’s website, many people with autism and Down syndrome never learn to ride a bike.

Most people at the camp Monday were kids, but anyone of any age can participate.

“I decided (to participate in the camp), just because why not, and (I) remember when I was a little kid, … even when I was trying to even stay still on a bike, I could never really stay balanced on there,” said Chris, a 19-year-old participant at the camp. “If I can’t get to stay balanced while staying still, I can’t get a chance to do anything when riding a bike.”

The camp ramps up over the week, allowing the kids to get more comfortable as the week goes on.

“We start out on Monday, going pretty slow and on some roller bikes, and different equipment,” said Nancy Hanson, the iCan Bike camp host. “And then by Friday, we want them to be as independent as possible on their family bikes.”

Hanson said the roller bikes are heavy in the back and allow a small amount of tilt compared to a regular bike.

“As they get better, we lighten up that roller in the back until it mimics a two-wheel bicycle, and then they just take off,” Hanson said. 

Many adults and kids came to volunteer at the event. Their job was to walk or run alongside the bikers, keep them upright and make conversation.

“Me and other people have the ability to bike, and I feel like other people — no matter if they have a disability or not — should be able to as well,” said Michael Ortiz, a 13-year-old volunteer at the camp.

The camp ends on Friday, when Hanson said the kids get a chance to bike outside.