An Introduction to the NABD

AN INTRODUCTION TO... THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR BIKERS WITH A DISABILITY

The NABD was set up in April 1991 by a group of people in Manchester who believe that disabled people should have full access to the independence and freedom of motorcycling.

During the past twenty - odd years, this unique Association has develoed immensely.

The membership of the NABD has increased to over 7,500 individuals from all over Britain, Eire and Europe with well over 150 clubs, groups and businesses affiliating to show their support of our aims.

The NABD has many diverse aspects including:

Financial Grants

To assist with the cost of special adaption work to bikes and trikes to suit the individual requirements of disabled riders. These grants range from £500.00 to £2,000.00 dependant on the type of machine and the specific needs of the disabled rider.

NABD grants are also now available toward the costs of refresher training and assessments.

Assessments and Training

The NABD has a number of “learner legal” 125cc machines, which are adapted to suit various disabilities.

These machines are lent to disabled riders free of charge for the purposes of professional training/ tests and rider assessments.

The NABD also offer financial help with the cost of refresher training for riders who have become disabled due to traumatic accidents or who have endured a protracted period of time off the road.

Insurance

The NABD has negotiated discount rates for members from some of the more reputable companies. Where an individual has difficulty obtaining a reasonable quotation we will attempt to negotiate a satisfactory conclusion.

Bikesure Insurance (part of the Adrian Flux Group) in cooperation with the NABD operate a unique discounted insurance scheme for our members.

It is our belief that; “When it comes to motorcycling, a disability should not be a handicap”.

Representatives

The NABD has a wide network of appointed representatives throughout Britain who co-ordinate the efforts of local members and organise regular meetings and fund-raising events.

Awareness

The NABD is constantly trying to educate the organisers of motorcycle events to the fundamental needs of disabled riders. Many organisers now ask our advice on facilities for people with disabilities as a matter of course.

NABD information and publicity stands attend a large number of motorcycling and disability events each year throughout the British Isles.

The NABD’s quarterly magazine, Open House, which gives a broad view of the work of the association, is available to every NABD member and affiliate and to other supporters and interested parties.

Adaptions

The adaptions made to motorcycles and trikes are as varied as current technology will allow.

Adaptions range from simple re-siting of existing controls, to the fitting of specially designed kits or even the building of specialised vehicles where necessary to suit the particular needs of a disabled rider.

Due to the detailed engineering work involved, the NABD utilises a network of professional engineers throughout Britain and Eire.

Events

The NABD holds many events around Britain throughout the year. These NABD events range from major annual motorcycle rallies to smaller fund-raising activities.

Although these events are intended primarily to raise funds, they have gained a reputation for being good value, quality entertainment.

Several of the more regular events are now classed as some of the best on the motorcycle scene.

Finance

The administration of the NABD is financed entirely from the proceeds of membership fees and our own direct fund-raising efforts.

All donations made to the NABD are used solely to fund the adaption grants and other services offered to disabled riders by the Association.

The NABD is a voluntary association. We only have two paid employees, a full-time office administrator and a full-time admin assistant. The gross turnover of the NABD for 2018-1019 was over £245.000.00.

Other Funding

The NABD are constantly seeking funding from sources like the National Lottery and the European Union.

We are also seeking sponsorship from commercial interests and the motorcycle industry in particular.

Membership

NABD membership is available to anyone with a love of motorcycling irrespective of disability. Each member receives a members pack, the Open House magazine and discount prices on some items of NABD merchandise. Affiliations from motorcycle clubs and businesses are also very welcome. See www.nabd.org.uk for further details, or contact the NABD office (contact details on page 3).

Campaigning

The NABD has several objectives concerning the rights and safety of disabled riders, we are regularly consulted on issues relating to disabled motorcycling by the DVLA, DfT, VOSA, DSA, and the Highways Agency.

We also work closely with MAG and BMF on many issues affecting the rights of bikers.

The Future

Over the years the NABD has helped thousands of people with disabilities to enjoy the independence and the freedom of motorcycling.

With the continued support of the biking community the NABD will remain the world’s foremost support group for disabled bikers!

NABD Website: www.nabd.org.uk

Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/TheNABD

Email: office@thenabd.org.uk

The views and opinions expressed in Open House are not necessarily those of the editor or the NABD and no responsibility can be accepted for any action taken as a result of reading any of the information herein.

Reproduction of this magazine in whole or part is prohibited without prior permission of NABD.