By Doug Halberstadt
Sports Columnist

Four years ago, I bought a motorcycle. Some might call it a “midlife crisis” or an “impulse” purchase. I rationalized it as something I could do with family and friends. So, I transitioned from spending most of my summer free time hours on the golf course to spending them on the open highway.

Now, after three-and-a-half riding seasons, I know I made the right decision. I still like to play golf, but riding does seem to get in your blood. I recently discovered just how much.

A company called Conquest recently unveiled a motorcycle designed for individuals with disabilities. It is the first bike that is totally wheelchair accessible. According to their website, it is “For those who are physically disabled below the waist and who harbor a love for exploring the open road in something more liberating than a car or van, that freedom is attainable once again through our wheelchair-accessible motorcycle.”

The three-wheel patented design bike makes it exceptionally unique. Riders mount the wheelchair-accessible motorcycle via an automatic rearward ramp. The trike accommodates both the driver and their wheelchair by a secure locking mechanism with a push-button release to ensure a stable driving platform. The handicap-accessible trikes come with a reverse gear for ease of maneuverability and parking. The push-button shift controls makes accelerating through the motorbike’s six gears very easy.

This bike was featured earlier this month at the National Veteran’s Wheel Chair Games in Denver. Conquest was a major sponsor of the games, and company spokesman Mark Roberts said: “We look forward to helping our service men and women reconnect with their passion for riding motorcycles. The Mobility Conquest is dedicated to providing handicapped persons who have a love of the road and desire to reconnect with the sport following disability.”

Another outstanding feature of the forward-thinking designed bike is its front and rear suspension have been adapted to help avoid any changes to driving or handling as a result of the increased weight of a passenger. Another benefit is that a service animal may also ride along.

I salute this company for having the foresight to develop this product. If you or someone you love has a disability and would love to get back on a bike, the Conquest wheelchair motorcycle sounds like a terrific answer.

The nearest Conquest dealer is in Chicago. For more information, visit their website at www.mobilityconquest.com ^[1].

Doug Halberstadt can be reached via e-mail at Dougster61@aol.com.

From the July 28-Aug 3, 2010 issue