Hello Folks,
I hope everyone is enjoying this great weather we're having in the UK!?
I need some advice if possible - this one is a bit unique (I can't find any previous mention of it in any other posts)
I am looking for a bike to buy for my wife, but unfortunately, she has a medical condition called ankylosing spondylitis (AS) - which is a type of chronic (long-term) arthritis that affects parts of the spine, including the bones, muscles and ligaments. She is not a sufferer of it at all times, unless something causes it to flare up.
There doesn't appear to be a great level of knowledge about the subject in general in the NHS (most research carried out in US). However, I think we can bear in mind the basics when looking at spec for a bike, to my mind that is a comfortable ride which doesn't mean she will feel all the bumps through the seat post and saddle, relatively efficient pedalling (obviously I'm thinking of balancing out the requirement for suspension against efficient pedaling). Another important aspect is to have a low crossbar to make getting on/off the bike easier. Those are the main points I can think of - if anyone has any knowledge of the condition I would be most interested to hear their story - but if not, considering the spec criteria I have mentioned, what can people suggest?
In terms of budget, I would say 3-400, but to be honest if its the right bike and makes her happy I'll spend a considerable bit more.
I'm all heart!
I am a touring cyclist on a Dawes Galaxy - but she'll only be doing short rides with me say 10 miles max.
Thank you all in advance for your help on this one, it means a lot to both of us.
Bengdis.
I hope everyone is enjoying this great weather we're having in the UK!?
I need some advice if possible - this one is a bit unique (I can't find any previous mention of it in any other posts)
I am looking for a bike to buy for my wife, but unfortunately, she has a medical condition called ankylosing spondylitis (AS) - which is a type of chronic (long-term) arthritis that affects parts of the spine, including the bones, muscles and ligaments. She is not a sufferer of it at all times, unless something causes it to flare up.
There doesn't appear to be a great level of knowledge about the subject in general in the NHS (most research carried out in US). However, I think we can bear in mind the basics when looking at spec for a bike, to my mind that is a comfortable ride which doesn't mean she will feel all the bumps through the seat post and saddle, relatively efficient pedalling (obviously I'm thinking of balancing out the requirement for suspension against efficient pedaling). Another important aspect is to have a low crossbar to make getting on/off the bike easier. Those are the main points I can think of - if anyone has any knowledge of the condition I would be most interested to hear their story - but if not, considering the spec criteria I have mentioned, what can people suggest?
In terms of budget, I would say 3-400, but to be honest if its the right bike and makes her happy I'll spend a considerable bit more.
I'm all heart! I am a touring cyclist on a Dawes Galaxy - but she'll only be doing short rides with me say 10 miles max.
Thank you all in advance for your help on this one, it means a lot to both of us.
Bengdis.
