Can I ride a bike?

Hi, Suffer with a myriad of problems after a Brain Injury and a stroke, back injury the same time after being thrown from a horse. Anyway I struggle to get excercise and can't walk very far because of chronic arthritis after accident. Can walk a bit with aid if I load up on Morphine, but dont like the feeling. I have a bike which I used to ride daily, and would like to try this for some excercise. Do you think the DWP would consider this as an improvment to mobility. I am on the higher rate of both PIP elements for 10 years, and am 68 years of age. Need some excercise badly, but need more harrassment from the DWP less?Lewis

Hi Inspector Lewis, do note I'm not a trained mod. Just a veteran of form filling to get our daughter thru 3 PIP apps, 2 MRs & 2 Appeals. I don't recall anything about physical mobility other than can you walk x or y distance in a or b time with or without aids. So as Gary says read the guide. But my personal take is that a bike can be rather like a wheelchair, ie it takes your weight because your legs/back will not - or not very far/for long etc. Just riding a bike does not mean you are a Lycra loony. I would not mention it frankly as it is not a specific question, just stick to your safely?, reliably?, to an acceptable standard?, repeatably? etc WALKING, noting time for a distance you have actually measured, pain, having to stop because of pain or breathlessness etc.
Very best wishes from a former cyclist; I too would love to get back in the saddle but now live in a hilly place
Denby

Hi, electric bikes are already in the plan, but need to make suitable storage space available first. Have just had the garage made into bedroom and bathroom for disability reasons. Went to one local bike shop but didn't find staff helpful, so will have to try elsewhere. My husband needs an electric bike that is legal but does not require pedal assist from both legs, as his right leg is permanently fixed straight. Suggestions welcome.
Thanks, Denby

Cycling can be a great way of keeping some functional muscle mass, and it is possible to use a range of adaptations legally.

This site might give you some ideas.

www.cyclinguk.org/article/cycling-guide/guide-to-adapted-cycles