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Cornell University

Cornell Outdoor Education

Adaptive Biking

What Is an Adaptive Bike?

Adaptive mountain bikes are purpose-built to support a wide range of physical abilities, making the freedom and challenge of cycling accessible to more riders. Available in multiple configurations, these bikes can be customized to address the specific needs and goals of each individual.

COE currently maintains a fleet of four adaptive bicycles, including two recumbent mountain bikes and two recumbent road cycles. Each recumbent bike is equipped with a compact electric motor—either pedal-assist or throttle-controlled—enabling riders to navigate varied terrain with greater ease and confidence while enhancing the overall riding experience.

All COE recumbent bikes (featured below) are available for demonstrations, lessons, and use in our PE Classes.

Recumbent Bike Demos and Lessons

Interested in trying a bike before making the commitment to purchase one? We’re happy to offer your first test ride at no cost. Simply complete a Demo Request Form, and we’ll schedule a session at your convenience.

If you would like additional time with the equipment, we are also pleased to offer follow-up lessons. These sessions are available for a modest fee to help cover instructors time. Please submit a request form, and a member of our team will contact you with further details and a personalized quote.

LINK TO DEMO AND LESSON FORM

COE Biking PE Classes 

If you are interested in using one of our recumbent bikes in a PE class, you must schedule a demo prior to the start of class. During this session, we will properly fit the bike to you and review its basic functions so you feel confident, comfortable, and ready for Day 1.

If you’re unsure which class to register for, we recommend scheduling a demo before your registration window opens. This gives you the opportunity to try the bike, ask questions, and talk with an instructor about which class best matches your experience and skills you’re looking to develop.

COE offers a wide variety of biking classes for all levels. Explore our full list of offerings below to find the right fit for you!

 

COE Recumbent Bikes 

MAKO Full Suspension Off-road Recumbent Handcycle

COE Recumbent Mako

The MAKO FULL SUSPENSION Off Road Recumbent handcycle is the ultimate, capable, rear wheel drive recumbent handcycle with suspension at all three wheels. Traction and hill climbing with a rear wheel drive recumbent handcycle are second to none. The Mako was developed for riders not able to or not interested in riding in the prone position (kneeling, face down).

COE Recumbent Mako

                

 

The MAKO front suspension provides improved ride quality and downhill speed control. The 24” front wheels provide fantastic ground clearance while allowing for tighter turning radius.  The 27.5×2.8″ rear tire provides superior traction and smooth ride.  The Mako has a rider weight limit of 200lbs.

 

 

Stinger Off-road Recumbent Bicycle

COE Recumbent StingerThe only of its kind on the market, this three-wheeled foot-pedaled recumbent is an actual off-road demon. With 24-inch front wheels and a 26″ rear wheel capped in the meanest knobbies, the Stinger has the ground clearance and traction enough to conquer any rocky, root-filled trail in your back yard or the mountains. Though the real key here is the derailleur. Other tadpole recumbents on the market available to the “off road” world often have low hanging derailleurs. COE Recumbent Stinger

 

Mounted on the 26-inch rear wheel, the Stinger’s derailleur is free from many trail collisions that leave its predecessors stranded.  In addition to 26-inch wheels, the Stinger is composed of an ADI Active Contour seat back for optimum positioning and comfort, carbon fiber seat pan, and adjustable single speed foot cranks. The14-speed Rohloff Speedhub is available to rescue your ride at the bottom of all the steepest hills, and the new heavy duty Tektro hydraulic disc brakes are there to control your speed on the way back down! The Stinger has a rider weight limit of 200lbs.

 

Catrike MAX eCat Recumbent Bike

COE Recumbent CatrikeThe durability and ease-of-use of the standard MAX with the added spark of the latest in electric assist systems from industry leader Bosch. The result is a MAX with the perfect combination of maximum efficiency, comfort and riding enjoyment. The efficient and versatile Active Line Plus (Class 1) electric-assist drive mated to a 1 x 11 drivetrain (11 - 42 cassette / 44 tooth chainring) provides dynamic performance – guaranteeing an authentic riding sensation with minimal pedaling resistance. COE Recumbent Catrike

It delivers active and sporty acceleration even at low cadences, offering powerful assistance as soon as you step on the pedals. In addition, the system’s multi-sensor technology and fast information processing ensure optimum interaction between you and your eCAT. The MAX eCAT is made with Bosch components and meets or exceeds all current safety standards and is UL2849 certified. The Catrike eCAT MAX recumbent trike has a rider weight limit of 425 lbs.

 

Top End Force 3 Recumbent Handcycle

COE Recumbent Top End The Top End Force 3 provides recreational fun with the 26" front tires that get you where you want to go outdoors. It features an adjustable backrest that allows low paras, amputees, and competitors a custom seating experience for their ability to use abdominal, arm, shoulder, and chest muscles. The Force 3’s aluminum frame design has a wrap-around ovalized lower frame making it easier to transfer to the seat. The handcycle sits 10" from the ground with a 2" included seat cushion. The handcycle comes with a group of 10 gears at the wheel allowing you to shift into a larger gear for inclines.COE Recumbent Top End

The Top End Force 3 Handcycle features an angle adjustable straight back (35°-70°), and it measures 22.5" tall and allows you to be in your ultimate position. It’s a great core workout and allows you to see the traffic a bit easier than the recline-only positioned handcycles. It's easy-to-operate, and virtually maintenance-free. The Top End Force 3 recumbent trike has a rider weight limit of 250 lbs.