Raider Rigs

Students with disabilities at Wright State University can now explore campus and surrounding outdoor areas with new off-road, electric, accessible quad bikes that are now available through Campus Recreation.

“As far as I know Wright State is the only university right now that’s lending out this type of adaptive rig for students with disabilities,” said Tom Webb, director of disability services.

Created by Not a Wheelchair, the fully electric, quad bikes, which are painted in Raider green, can reach speeds of 12 miles per hour and operate on two batteries with a range of 25 to 30 miles.

Wright State students were able to take the four bikes out for an inaugural trip around campus earlier this month.

“There were smiles everywhere,” said Erin Compaleo, program manager of Outdoor Recreation. “We had some students say that they’ve never been that fast before. It was incredible to be able to witness it.”

Before checking out the Raider Rigs from Campus Recreation, students must complete a three-step safety instruction, which includes attending an orientation, participating in a training session with a Campus Recreation employee and completing an informational form for easy checkout.

“We are looking forward to being able to offer group rides to use these rigs and have students go off on their own adventures,” said Compaleo.

The Office of Disability Services purchased the quad bikes after receiving a $24,608 Direct Effect Quality of Life grant from the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation National Paralysis Resource Center.

Wright State also received a $15,000 Quality of Life grant from the Reeve Foundation in 2018 to purchase three robotic dining devices for students with disabilities who need assistance feeding themselves. In 2013, the Reeve Foundation provided a $13,000 Quality of Life grant for 15 new wheelchairs for indoor wheelchair sports.