If youโre inspired by the incredible achievements of Team GB cyclists at the London 2012 Games, why not give cycling a go?
Accessible to people from every level of experience and ability, a range of equipment is available to ensure that everyone can take part, including tricycles and hand cycles. The perfect way to get out in the fresh air and keep fit, cycling is also a great social activity.
As a very rough guide, division C5 is for those with upper limb disability, C4 is for those with lower limb issues and divisions C3 โ C1 are for those with both upper and lower limb disabilities of varying severity. All C division riders are required to ride bicycles.
For athletes competing under classifications T1 or T2, competitors ride tricycles rather than bicycles.
Those unable to ride a bicycle or tricycle, usually wheelchair users, can compete using a three wheeled handcycle. There are 4 different classifications within this discipline (H1-4) dependant both on severity of disability and their position on the handcycle (lying down or kneeling) .
Those with a visual impairment (VI) compete on tandems, with a sighted pilot.
Domestic competition is also open to other disability groups, such as autism and learning difficulties.
Para-Cycling is practiced in over 40 countries.