Left Leg disabilities

Left Leg Disability – Gear Change Options

Left leg disability motorcycle adaptations are often required when a rider cannot safely operate a standard gear-change pedal. This guide outlines practical solutions for gear control, transmission options and foot stability.

Push-Button Gear Change Adaptation

The most popular solution is the Kliktronic gear changer.

This electrically operated system allows gear changes via thumb switches mounted on the handlebar.

Key benefits:

• No major modification to the motorcycle
• Supplied as a complete kit (excluding model-specific bracket)
• Can be transferred between bikes
• Proven long-term reliability
• Discreet appearance

Many NABD members have used the same unit for over 15 years.

More information:
https://www.kliktronic.co.uk

Other electronic gear changers are also available.

Automatic Transmission Conversions

Some motorcycles can be converted to fully automatic operation by replacing the clutch basket.

Examples include:

• Rekluse auto clutch
  https://www.rekluse.com/
• EFM auto clutch
  https://efm-auto-clutch.square.site/

(Import duties and VAT may apply for US suppliers.)

Factory Automatic Motorcycles

Another option is choosing a motorcycle with automatic or semi-automatic transmission.

Honda offers:

• Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)
  https://www.honda.co.uk/motorcycles/experience-honda/dual-clutch-transmission.html

• Honda e-clutch system
  https://www.honda.co.uk/motorcycles/experience-honda/e-clutch.html

Most electric motorcycles also eliminate manual clutch operation.

Footplate Modifications

Where the disability affects foot stability or sensory feedback (for example, below-knee amputation), replacing a standard footpeg with a footplate is strongly recommended.

Benefits:

• Larger contact surface
• Reduced slip risk
• Improved stability

For additional support, use footplates with:

• Raised heel rim
• Raised front rim (sport bikes)

⚠ Never secure a prosthetic leg to the motorcycle in a way that prevents natural separation during an accident.

Additional Concerns

For information relating to Above Knee Amputations and/or other disabilities affecting the weight-bearing strength, range of function or ability to stabilise a stationary motorcycle safely, efficiently and comfortably, see the ‘Above Knee Amputees & Additional Concerns’ article.

Selecting appropriate left leg disability motorcycle adaptations can improve safety, independence and long-term riding confidence.

Rick Hulse

NABD Chairman