Bike Camp

About Bike Camp

This 5-day camp teaches individuals of all different abilities how to ride a two-wheel bicycle without training wheels.  It is truly an amazing experience for both participants and volunteers.

Camp accepts 40 riders on a first-come, first-served basis. Riders attend the same 75-minute session each day for 5 consecutive days.

Riders use a specialized bicycle designed to teach appropriate balance for the entire 75 minutes each day while accompanied by their assigned volunteers. Riders begin indoors and then transition outside to the track as their progression permits. Additionally, camp staff provides fun motivational teaching on a specially designed tandem bike that is generally well received by riders.

Join our interest list for summer 2025!

bike camp at the autism society of akron

Requirements for Participation

  • Minimum of 8 years of age by the start of camp
  • With a diagnosed disability
  • Able to walk without an assistive device
  • Able to wear a properly fitted bike helmet
  • Able to sidestep to both sides
  • Inseam of 20″ or more
  • Weight of 220 lbs. or less
  • Must be able to attend all 5 days of camp

As you evaluate this program it is important to consider behavior as well.  A person may be physically able to ride a bike, but if their behavior is such that they cannot be persuaded to get on the bike and follow instructions, then it is likely this program will not be beneficial.

youth biking with adapted bike and helper

Camp Times and Cost

iCan Bike is usually offered during July with registration opening in April. There are 5 sessions offered each day at 8:30 AM, 10:05 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:00 PM and 3:35 PM.  Riders choose a time and attend the same 75-minute session each day for 5 consecutive days.

Cost of the week-long camp is $250 per rider ($500 VALUE).  We depend on grants, sponsorships, and fundraising efforts by the Autism Society of Greater Akron to reduce costs as much as possible for families.

County Board of DD dollars may be used as payment for this program, but ASGA is not a Medicaid or Waiver provider.

Testimonials

This camp was fascinating to watch. The slow progression of riding with a full roller to a thinner one encourages stamina. Seeing our daughter start to automatically shift her body to balance was amazing. Then seeing her progress to an actual two-wheel bike alone was heartwarming. Thank you for this amazing experience! 

Jennifer Pyle, Mom to Camden, Age 15

How awesome that every participant in our session was riding their bike by the end of the week!  Great information was provided to the group, and instructions and volunteer expectations were very clear. The program is a bit magical!!! Teaching something in 5 days that parents have struggled with for years…I am honored to have worked with these bikers and their families.    

Patricia Lane, Passionate Cyclist

Helping kids at bike camp was an unforgettable experience! I think I had just as much if not more fun than my riders did! It was rewarding, challenging at times, but most of all an incredible thing to be a part of. Knowing that I made a difference in their lives means the world to me and I can’t wait to be back next year!

Marissa Boyd, Student at Copley High School

I am so proud.  It is like watching him learn to walk all over again!

Angela Armbrust, Mom to Dominic Age 13

In five days, this camp did what we have been attempting for ten years.

Margie Gregory, Mom to Michael Age 15

Orientation

Parents & Volunteers need to attend an Orientation Meeting at 4pm on Sunday before bike camp.  This is an important time for parents to learn about the program, ask questions and volunteers receive initial training at this session.

The videos linked here are good overviews of the bike camp and do a nice job of touching on all the important aspects from a rider and volunteer perspective.

View the Cleveland 19 News Story on Our Bike Camp.

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