Italian charity No Barriers ODV is causing a stir by offering motorcycle rides as therapy for children and adults with a disability. Set up in 2020, the non-profit organisation states that the low-speed rides stimulate trust, body orientation and connection.

No Barriers was defending its work against criticism that motor therapy is merely a recreational or fun activity, with no therapeutic value at all. “This is a superficial judgement,” states No Barriers, “overlooking years of documented experience and, above all, field-based evidence gathered by educators, therapists, physiotherapists, neurologist and clinical psychologists who witness its effects on patients every day.” Motor therapy has also been recognised by the Italian government, with a new law in 2024 making provision for the “recognition and promotion of motor therapy.”

Since its founding, No Barriers ODV says it has carried out over 100 motor therapy events, using small motorcycles, sidecar outfits or low-seat scooters, and giving rides to children and adults with motor, sensory, cognitive or autism disabilities.

At the BMF, chair Jim Freeman welcomed this use of powered two-wheelers. “ If horse riding is regarded as therapy for people with disabilities, why shouldn’t motorcycling? Full marks to the Italian government and No Barriers for taking such a positive attitude.”

Written by Peter Henshaw

Top image courtesy of No Barriers ODV