Van Raam produces uniquely special needs bicycles and specializes in tricycles, transport bikes, scooterbikes, wheelchair bikes, tandem bikes, double rider bikes, and low step trough bikes (also known as comfortbikes). Each model is also available as an electric bike (Pedelec).
Van Raam is a Dutch producer of unique custom bikes. Want to know more about our company or special needs bikes?
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Together with end users, the latest technological advances, and the most modern materials, Van Raam has developed a completely new wheelchair bike: the OPair3. The new OPair wheelchair bikes are available for order at a Van Raam dealer starting April 3rd 2017.
The OPair's purpose is simple: a safe, stable, and stylish wheelchair bike fit for transporting any wheelchair user. However, achieving that goal was no simple task.
Jolien Heeman (R&D manager) explaines: "It is a technologically complex product, given the fact that two people use it at the same time, while both have different needs. We really delved into the world of the user in order to have this project succeed. Not only existing OPair users, but also new users were involved in an early stage to find out what they needed from this vehicle. For our engineers, it was a very rewarding moment, because you truly realize how much impact your design can have on the daily life of regular users."
Technology is a major part of a bike's success, but emotions play an important role too. Our main point was that we wanted to use new, modern materials and techniques, but not to the point that the technological aspect would become overwhelming. Our head-designers have different educational backgrounds, which made it a real team effort.
Jolien Heeman: "The team composition resulted in several internal discussions. Both the look and feel of the bike were vehemently represented as well as the operational technological aspects. This culminated in a wonderful bout of cooperation where all involved engineers showed the best of their skills. Not that they're truly happy; there's always room to improve and they would love to show that in their next project. I am proud to have such ambitious colleagues, they make all the difference for our customers!"
Curious about the development of the OPair over the years? Take a look and read more in 'Van Raam wheelchair bike OPair over the years'.
COMPLETELY RENEWED WHEEL SUSPENSION
✓ innovative steering for safe, stable, and communicative on-road handling
✓ independently suspended front wheels for optimal comfort
✓ direct steering enables quick steering corrections
✓ a better driving experience for both driver and passenger
NEW DESIGN
✓ modern look with a high quality finish
✓ fresh new colorways
✓ larger back wheel for more dynamic movement
✓ challenging and functional design
✓ improved and safe wheel protection
NEW COMFORTABLE PASSENGER SEAT
✓ depth adjustable seating
✓ adjustable back and side rests for optimal support
✓ soft and easy to clean seats
✓ hip seatbelt and arm rests for the passenger
FOR THE DRIVER
✓ standard 8 gears
✓ good sitting posture (Holland-sitting-position)
✓ improved steering
IMPROVED ENTRY
✓ two raisable and adjustable foot rests
✓ free entry for the passenger
OPTIONAL
✓ electric motor (with the Van Raam app)
✓ Split frame: fast and simple disconnection with improved connector
✓ firm stand for cycling component with split frame
✓ adjustable head rest
✓ adjustable seat width
✓ to be expanded with many other options like foot fixation and 4-point and 5-point seatbelts
The video below gives you a taste of the new OPair wheelchair bike. View detailed information such as technical information, photographs, prices, etc. on the OPair wheelchair bike page.
Compared to other wheelchair bikes, the OPair has a number of other pros (alongside its modern and fresh vibe):
high quality frame made in the Netherlands
suitable for both children and adults
excellent seating for both passengers in the seat in front as well as the cycling user
slightly angled wheels for increased driving comfort and stability
two separate raisable foot rests for passenger
available in just about every RAL color
optional base plate suitable for a R82 reception adapter, enabling users to affix their own orthotic seat
option to disconnect the wheelchair aspect from the cycling component
If an electric motor is used, you can cycle both forwards and backwards with applied cycling support.
We at Van Raam make bikes that give the best results, enhance the quality of life for users and look good on top of that. We think the term "special needs bikes" should be abandoned all together. They're just bicycles! Under our motto "Let's all cycle", we have been making bikes for people who cannot use a standard bike for decades.
Van Raam has two wheelchair bicycles in its assortment. These are the VeloPlus wheelchair transport bike and the OPair wheelchair bike. These two bicycles are used to transport a person sitting in a wheelchair. The OPair has had a complete transformation since the first version. Read more about the OPair wheelchair bike over the years here.
The wheelchair bicycle OPair from Van Raam was tested for the tender by an independent commission of the Norwegian government. The OPair wheelchair bicycle is suitable for children or adults who are no longer able to cycle independently. Read on to find out how the bicycle compares to other manufacturers and what makes it so special.
Since April 2017, you can order the completely renewed Opair wheelchair bike from Van Raam at our dealers.
A bike that you can also use as a wheelchair? This is possible with the Van Raam OPair wheelchair bike. With this bike it is possible to choose for a divisible frame, so you can turn the bike into a wheelchair. Read more about this special bike here.
We are happy to assist you! Please check our contact page or contact us directly using the options below.
