Finding a safe cycling solution for a child with autism or complex needs can feel impossible. Standard bikes rarely work, and balance bikes assume a level of confidence that many riders simply do not have yet. For families who know their child loves being active and outdoors, that gap can be incredibly frustrating.

This is the story of how one family found a way forward with the Tomcat Fizz Trailer Trike, an adaptive trike designed to support riders with a wide range of physical and developmental needs. It can be ridden independently or towed from the back of a parent’s bike, giving families the flexibility to meet their rider wherever they are.

The Beginning

Zac O’Connell is, by his family’s own description, a happy, calm and laid-back little boy. He loves soft play, swimming, trampolining, songs and dancing. He has a particular fondness for Julia Donaldson stories, The Snail and the Whale being a firm favourite. And he loves being outside.

Zac has a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (level 3) and is non-verbal. He also lives with Global Developmental Delay, which affects all areas of his development. Despite these challenges, his physical abilities are one of his strongest areas. He can walk, run and jump, and he copes well in the outside world.

For years, cycling was part of family life. Zac rode in a seat on the back of his parent’s bike, one of the few activities that worked for everyone. As he grew, that had to stop.

“He had become too tall and heavy for it to be safe. We struggled to find any alternative seat, all trailers were designed for toddlers.”

Family bike rides quietly stopped. For Zac, who cannot express himself verbally, losing access to something he genuinely loved was more than a practical inconvenience. His family knew they needed to find another way.

The Challenge

The family’s ambition went beyond simply finding a way to take Zac along. They wanted him to learn to ride independently, to experience the confidence and freedom that comes with it. Standard bikes were not suitable for his needs. Balance bikes, which many riders use as a first step, required a level of confidence Zac did not yet have.

Cycling also presented a specific set of physical challenges: balance, steering, coordination, knowing to pedal forwards rather than backwards, and general safety. These difficulties created frustration and anxiety, making progress harder still.

“We wanted to teach him the independence of cycling and do it safely, but we didn’t have the tools.”

The family turned to the internet to find a solution, and that search led them to Tomcat.

The Solution

Tomcat arranged a home assessment with Kevin, one of their specialist assessors. The experience made an immediate impression.

“Amazing! Kevin came to our house to assess Zac. He was so kind and patient, as well as extremely knowledgeable. Everyone we have had contact with at Tomcat has been exceptional.”

Following the assessment, Zac was set up with a Tomcat Fizz Trailer Trike. The setup works in two ways: Zac can ride independently on the trike, and when needed, it can be towed from the back of his mum’s bike. The trike was configured around his specific needs: safe carer control and guidance, postural support, stability while riding, and the flexibility to customise as his confidence and skills grow.

The Result

Zac’s first ride told the family everything they needed to know.

“Brilliant! Zac was nervous to begin with but once we got going he was very happy. The bike has given him his hobby back!”

Since then, the changes have been tangible. Zac is happier and more relaxed outdoors. His family have noticed improvements in his balance and coordination. Outings are easier and less physically demanding, longer distances are now manageable, and there is real confidence around his safety.

Perhaps most meaningfully, something the family had lost has come back.

“Family bike rides are now an option again! We couldn’t do them for a long time. They are one of the only things we can all do as a four!”

Right now, Zac is happiest being trailered behind his mum’s bike, and his confidence is growing. This summer, the family plan to spend more time using the trike independently, building towards Zac steering and pedalling on his own.

“Zac is so happy on the bike. He is confident when being trailered. This summer we are going to spend more time on the trike to increase his confidence of steering and pedalling.”

For Zac’s family, the Tomcat Fizz Trailer Trike has become part of how they live. It fits into their routine, their lifestyle, and who Zac is.

“I love Tomcat! I cannot recommend them enough. Love that they’re made here too.”