Whereas losing a limb may cause most victims to collapse in despair, the case of Dutch rider Bert Pot is a truly inspiring story. Bert Pot lost his left hand in a work accident, not a bike one. While his new situation looked pretty hopeless in the first place (as far as motorcycle riding was concerned), Bert proved there's more to life than woe.
After extensive research Bert pot decided that the best bike for his idea was a BMW R1200RT. Not only because the bike itself is a very comfortable one and suited Bert's needs, but because the manufacturer made sure the warranty for the parts receiving no modifications was still valid.
Bert asked the help of the Motor Mobiliteit voor Gehandicapten (MMvG) orMotorcycle Mobility for Disabled in Holland, and they've assisted him in getting a second prosthesis with a better grip on a bike's handlebar. A special-design was used so that the prosthesis could be easily detached in case of an accident, and Bert's idea of a 12V battery-heated silicon sock also covered for the thermal issue when riding in cold weather.
After extensive and determined training with the MmvG, Bert finally got back his category-A license and Bert went ahead to meet Rob Jansen, motorcycle engineer for All-round Technical Assistance. Very skilled in air-assisted systems, alternative brake operating units and many other similar solutions, Rob adapted the BMW to Bert's new needs, and did it with flying colors.
The clutch lever was moved to the right handlebar, for thumb-operation, and the left-side buttons and wiring have been re-routed for the right side. Thankfully, BMW has manufactured a really good bike so not only were the new custom systems crafted to fit, they could also be designed to match the bike.
Even more, the integral ABS system helps making braking safer and smoother, eliminating much of the inconvenience which comes with an amputated hand. Also, make sure you check out Bert's website for extensive information.
Bert asked the help of the Motor Mobiliteit voor Gehandicapten (MMvG) orMotorcycle Mobility for Disabled in Holland, and they've assisted him in getting a second prosthesis with a better grip on a bike's handlebar. A special-design was used so that the prosthesis could be easily detached in case of an accident, and Bert's idea of a 12V battery-heated silicon sock also covered for the thermal issue when riding in cold weather.
After extensive and determined training with the MmvG, Bert finally got back his category-A license and Bert went ahead to meet Rob Jansen, motorcycle engineer for All-round Technical Assistance. Very skilled in air-assisted systems, alternative brake operating units and many other similar solutions, Rob adapted the BMW to Bert's new needs, and did it with flying colors.
The clutch lever was moved to the right handlebar, for thumb-operation, and the left-side buttons and wiring have been re-routed for the right side. Thankfully, BMW has manufactured a really good bike so not only were the new custom systems crafted to fit, they could also be designed to match the bike.
Even more, the integral ABS system helps making braking safer and smoother, eliminating much of the inconvenience which comes with an amputated hand. Also, make sure you check out Bert's website for extensive information.
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