Public Interest Incorporated Association SSP Holds Paramoto Rider Experience Ride at Hiratsuka Velodrome: Riders with Visual Impairment, Spinal Cord Injury, Right Amputation, and Right Hemiplegia Ride Motorcycles

On February 12, 2025, the Public Interest Incorporated Association SSP held an experiential riding event for riders with disabilities at the Hiratsuka Velodrome (ABEMA Shonan Bank) in Hiratsuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture.

4 Paramoto Riders Experience Riding at the Velodrome

The event was blessed with clear skies and was held in a shaded environment under a large tent within the velodrome. A total of four paramoto riders, who have visual impairments, spinal cord injuries, are amputees with a right leg, or have paralysis on the right side of their body, participated and shared the joy of riding motorcycles.

Approximately 50 staff members cooperated in the operation. Additionally, Takahiro Takagi, Naoto Kawaguchi, Momoka Kuriyama, and Mimi Shimizu, all affiliated with the Hiratsuka Velodrome, along with auto racer Shoko Nishi, participated as volunteers and enlivened the event.

Participants Share Their Thoughts on Motorcycles and Riding Sensations

Mr. Higashikata, who has a right leg amputation, stated, "I realized how difficult handlebar control is. I want more opportunities to ride and get used to it." Mr. Kanno, who has a spinal cord injury, expressed his joy, saying, "I was able to ride without training wheels. It was truly fun, feeling like I was really riding a motorcycle."

Ms. Mogami, who has paralysis on the right side of her body, showed her enthusiasm, saying, "It was difficult in a different way than when I used to ride, but I want to come back and ride again." Ms. Itajima, who has a visual impairment, reflected, "I remembered the feeling of turning the engine over and operating the clutch, and I had a fun time."

Event Overview

Date: Wednesday, February 12, 2025
Location: Hiratsuka Velodrome (5-1 Kuryōtsutsumi, Hiratsuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture)
Paramoto Riders: 4
SSP Staff: Approximately 50
Weather: Clear

Side Stand Project | Public Interest Incorporated Association SSP: https://ssp.ne.jp/