Celebrating a Triumphant Journey on Two Wheels (BBC Sounds Podcast)

BBC Sounds: The Wobbly Cyclist’s Triumph with E-Bikes

In a recent interview on the Scotland Outdoors podcast, host Rachel Stewart meets the inspiring Karen Cox, widely known as The Wobbly Cyclist. 

Karen’s journey with her VOLT electric bike, has not only transformed her life but also shed light on the incredible potential of electric bikes in making the outdoors more accessible for individuals facing mobility challenges.

 

Overcoming Challenges with “Flora and Fauna”

Karen, who battles chronic health conditions including Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, fibromyalgia, and arthritis, found a renewed sense of freedom through her e-bike journey. You may remember her story with Buzz, her first VOLT Metro LS, opened up new horizons when traditional bikes seemed like an impossible dream. We have been trying to keep up with her in a Catch her if you can blog post. Now, her two Pulse LS bikes, lovingly named Flora and Fauna, are a common sight in Lossiemouth.

A Can-Do Attitude in the Face of Adversity

Despite facing constant joint pain and fatigue, Karen’s determination knows no bounds. Her journey extends beyond cycling, having even learned to fly a plane. Through her Facebook page, @thewobblycyclist, she has become a recognised cycling influencer and the amazing Ambassador of the She’s Electric Campaign, inspiring others with her “can-do” attitude, both within and outside the disability community.

The Power of E-Bikes for Hypermobile Joints

Karen’s hypermobility due to Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome makes traditional cycling challenging. In the interview, she explains how the constant power assistance on her bike takes the resistance out of pedalling, making it possible for her to move forward with ease. Riding with the power on at all times allows her to navigate distances, hills, and varied terrains without worrying about physical strain.

Reclaiming Freedom and Exploring the Unseen

Karen’s dedication to raising awareness about the benefits of power-assisted cycles is crucial. Her story demonstrates that e-bikes aren’t about cheating; instead, they serve as a powerful tool to enhance mobility for those with lower mobility capacities. Karen has reclaimed her sense of freedom, exploring places she hadn’t seen in years, like cycling on the beach, an experience that her mobility scooter couldn’t provide.

A Vision for a More Inclusive Outdoors

Karen’s advocacy emphasises the diversity of electric bikes, including trikes, tandem, recumbent, and more. It’s just like finding the right bike is akin to Cinderella finding the perfect shoe – a personalised solution to enhance mobility. Her work encourages people to see ebikes as a means to enable outdoor activities for everyone, regardless of their mobility level.

Conquering Peaks and Embracing Adventure

Karen’s adventurous spirit is evident in her desire to cycle up Ben Rinnes, a goal she achieved in 2021 with the support of her team. Her triumphant ascent symbolises the limitless possibilities that electric bicycles can unlock, allowing individuals to embrace challenges and conquer terrains that were once thought impossible. We are so happy and inspired to be sharing The Wobbly Cyclist’s journey and this is our duty too to be raising awareness for more people to join the fun and get their freedom back, as Karen said “ebikes are a great tool” they have the power to aid individuals facing mobility challenges. Through her advocacy, Karen Cox continues to inspire us and others to explore the outdoors and redefine what’s possible, proving that with the right support and the right bike, anyone can embark on their own empowering journey.