Adaptive Biking at Crankworx: Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Athletes

Crankworx, the world's premier mountain biking festival, is renowned for pushing the boundaries of the sport. In recent years, the event has taken an important step towards inclusivity by introducing adaptive biking sessions and races. These adaptive events not only showcase the incredible abilities of adaptive athletes, but also aim to raise awareness and promote the growth of adaptive biking on a competitive level. With an array of exciting activities and races lined up, Crankworx is set to inspire and captivate audiences once again.

Adaptive athlete and event contributor, Cole Bernier shares his excitement for this year's event,

“I couldn’t be more excited for this year’s Crankworx! It’s pretty cool how fast the technology has progressed in the industry allowing adaptive riders to push the sport making events like Crankworx possible for adaptive athletes all across the world,” said Bernier.

“The help and support from the organizers and resort have been unparalleled and we couldn’t be more grateful for their help, it truly wouldn’t be possible without the collaborative efforts.”


One of the primary objectives of Crankworx's adaptive biking events is to raise awareness and promote the sport to a wider audience. By showcasing the talents and determination of adaptive riders, Crankworx aims to break down barriers and challenge preconceptions about what is possible in the world of biking. The event provides a platform for adaptive athletes to shine, inspiring others and fostering a more inclusive and diverse community within the sport.

Kidsworx & Adaptive Supervisor, Carly Fox, has been spreading awareness and championing adaptive events at Crankworx since 2019.

“The Jam Session in 2019 was our first adaptive event for Crankworx, which was run as a ‘sampler’ of sorts for adaptive biking in Whistler, in addition what Whistler Adaptive Sports Program has been offering for several years. The event was very well received both locally and within the international aMTB community,” said Fox.

Since then, Fox has seen a steady rise in support and involvement from athletes and event sponsors alike. She has enjoyed watching the sport’s evolution within Crankworx and has worked to grow the adaptive offering within the inclusive festival.

“Fast forward to 2022, it has been great to have the same contributors from 2019 with loads more experience, more opportunities for athletes to network with other riders and more options to try out new adaptive bikes. This year we're able to keep building that momentum and are excited to announce our first Crankworx Adaptive DH.”


Last year marked the introduction of the Dual Slalom race, and it returns this year with even more excitement. In this thrilling event, male and female adaptive athletes take on the same course as their mountain bike counterparts, showcasing their skill and agility in head-to-head races. The Dual Slalom race has quickly become a fan-favorite, serving as a testament to the incredible abilities of adaptive riders and these exciting races.

Another exciting addition to this year's Crankworx lineup is the B-Line race. This will be the first-ever downhill race on the same course as the popular Kidsworx B-Line race. The B-Line race welcomes both male and female participants and offers categories for both throttle and non-throttle riders. This new race promises to provide a thrilling spectacle and push the boundaries of adaptive biking even further.

Crankworx also offers an exhilarating lineup of jam sessions that will take place across the Lost Lake Trails, Valley Trails, and Bike Park. These sessions provide a thrilling opportunity for riders to explore the diverse terrain and showcase their skills. Whether participants are seasoned riders or newcomers, coaching is available for every level, ensuring that everyone can benefit from expert guidance and improve their abilities.


Crankworx's adaptive biking events exemplify the spirit of inclusivity, athleticism, and innovation that define this world-class mountain biking festival. With a range of activities catering to different skill levels, the event encourages participation and growth in adaptive biking. By providing opportunities for riders to showcase their abilities, raising awareness, and pushing the boundaries of the sport, Crankworx is driving positive change and inspiring a new generation of adaptive athletes. The adaptive biking events at Crankworx truly demonstrate that barriers can be overcome, and possibilities are endless when passion and determination are at the forefront.

Registration, Adaptive Session Information and Equipment Demos:
Located at the patio of the prestigious Westin Hotel and Spa, Crankworx will provide an adaptive session information desk. Here, attendees can gather information, ask questions, and learn about the latest developments in adaptive biking. Moreover, Bowhead Cycles and Whistler Adaptive present new and innovative equipment available for demo. This provides an opportunity for riders to experience firsthand the cutting-edge technology designed to enhance the adaptive biking experience.

For more information and registration sign-up, please visit:

https://www.crankworx.com/event/adaptive-dh-whistler/