The NABD headquarters/office is in Manchester, UK, but core services serve people throughout the UK, the Republic of Ireland, Isle of Man and the Channel Isles. Much of the work of the NABD has also directly benefitted disabled motorcyclist throughout Europe and the wider world.

FAQs Archive - Page 4 of 11

Q: Is a Steering Damper Needed for Riders with Arm Disabilities?

It has long been NABD policy to recommend a high-quality steering damper, with a large range of adjustment available, as being essential for any rider suffering a significant loss of function or strength in an arm. A steering damper, adjusted to suite the individual rider, smooths out the sudden ‘snatching’ movement in the handlebars, that can occur when hitting unseen objects, potholes or other unseen hazards in the road, or when traversing uneven terrain when riding off-road. With correct adjustment it should not affect normal steering to any noticeable extent. Sadly, cheaper steering dampers generally offer little benefit, and some can even have a negative effect. With steering dampers, you generally get what you pay for. Rotary steering dampers are often advantageous because they generally require no modifications or welding to the bike, though high-quality rod-and-piston dampers can be equally effective. In the case of the Africa Twin, the MSC Moto rotary damper is recognised to be pretty much ideal. Though the NABD cannot officially ‘recommend’ any particular brand or model, for liability reasons, I can say this model has had excellent reports from disabled people when fitted to the Africa Twin. Though we always recommend you do a little research of your own and shop around for the best deal. If you are resident in the UK, you may be able to get some financial help with the purchase and fitting of a steering damper via the NABD Adaptation Grants system,

Q: What does NABD stand for?

NABD stands for The National Association for Bikers with a Disability. This registered charity exists to support the needs and welfare of disabled motorcyclists and to provide a dependable route for people with disabilities to access the freedom and independence of motorcycling.

Q: What makes NABD different from other charities?

What sets the NABD apart from the vast majority of charities is, it is entirely governed by unpaid volunteers, it doesn't spend huge amounts of money on plush offices or 'generous expenses'. It has just one paid employee (the office manager) and it guarantees that 100% of every donation goes into funding adaptation grants.

Find Out More

Find Out More

Find Out More

Find Out More

Find Out More

Find Out More

Title

Contact Us

Contact Us