Biking Programs & Confidence On Wheels
Think back to when you learned to ride a bike. Remember the freedom of taking off on your own and the confidence that came with that new sense of independence. For many Beyond Boundaries participants, learning to ride a bike once seemed impossible.
This year, we launched a pilot Learn to Bike program in partnership with WeeWheel. Thanks to generous support from a private family foundation and a Capital Trail Outdoor Equity Fund grant, we built a fleet of bicycles suitable for riders of all abilities. Combined with WeeWheel's state-of-the-art facility, the program is helping participants learn a new skill while experiencing the same sense of freedom many of us remember from our first bike ride. The results have been remarkable, with many participants progressing from complete beginners to confident riders in just a few weeks.
"The bikes we're using are from Strider, and they've been a great partner for the program. We decided to start this year with a pilot program with the Autism Society of Central Virginia (ASCV), working with six middle schoolers. We're also partnering with WeeWheel. They specialize in teaching riders of all levels and have an incredible indoor facility with tracks and obstacles," explains George.
The Learn to Bike program meets weekly at WeeWheel, where participants build skills through dedicated lessons focused on balance, braking, and confidence.
"Henry has always really enjoyed his scooter, and he's good at balancing on things in a daredevil kind of way. Given his love of balancing and being outside, we thought learning to ride a bike would be a great fit," says Kate Fletcher, mother of one of the participants.
Beyond teaching cycling skills, the program promotes independence and self-confidence. As Beyond Boundaries expands its biking opportunities, the goal is to help participants eventually enjoy rides on both the Capital Trail and the Fall Line Trail.
"We're doing this in conjunction with the Capital Trail Foundation, and we're working to grow the cycling community in Richmond. We want people to have the skills they need to take advantage of these trails. I'd love to see cycling clubs develop where participants can continue building on what they've learned," George says.
As participants gain confidence, they can explore more of the WeeWheel facility, taking on new tracks, obstacles, and challenges.
"I didn't know WeeWheel even existed, but everyone there is so welcoming. Having that space available, especially the room with the obstacles, is the highlight of their week. It's been a delight watching our kids graduate to the bigger room. All of the parents have been amazed by the program's effectiveness. To see Henry learn to ride a bike is kind of a miracle. I've been pleasantly surprised," Kate says.
For George and the Beyond Boundaries team, it's exciting to see the organization's values of Access, Community, and Empowerment come to life.
"Learning to ride a bike is a fantastic way to promote independence and self-sufficiency. It also creates opportunities to get outside, build fitness, and have fun. Riding can be an incredible social tool, and being able to participate in activities alongside peers is huge," George says.
Our Learn to Bike program is still developing, but we’re excited to see the progress unfold! Contact us to volunteer or donate if you’d like to get involved. See you on the trails!