Lacking Legs, Bambang Modifies Motorcycles for People with Disabilities
In a corner of South Tangerang, the sparks and clanging of metal from a workshop provide the rhythm for a struggle against limitations.
Between iron frames and wheels, hope is being assembled into three-wheeled vehicles that help people with disabilities move more independently.
Bambang Catur (53), a person with disabilities who lost both legs due to a workplace accident, asserts that physical limitations are no reason to stop moving and creating. His life experiences have given him a deep understanding of the mobility needs of the disabled community. Consequently, he chose to enter the world of motor vehicle modification, despite having no prior experience as a mechanic or an automotive background.
He studied welding techniques and motorcycle construction from various experts. It took Bambang more than three years to master these skills.
In early 2004, Bambang founded his vehicle modification workshop. Today, the workshop serves as a place where people with disabilities can obtain vehicles tailored to their specific needs.
“I focus on how to make these vehicles easy for my disabled friends to use, designing them according to their specific needs and conditions, because physical conditions are not all the same,” said the Surabaya native.
The modified vehicles can be equipped with space for canes and wheelchairs, helping owners return to work to earn a living. It is common for owners to return to the workshop to check the condition of their vehicles.
Modification prices vary, ranging from Rp 750,000 to tens of millions of rupiah, depending on the requirements. Currently, Bambang is assisted by two workers in designing these three-wheeled vehicles.
Ojan (43), a polio survivor and a user of a three-wheeled motorcycle made by Bambang, has used his vehicle for four years to support his work mobility and frequently returns to the workshop for maintenance.
Bambang does more than just assemble vehicles; he provides a means that allows people with disabilities the opportunity to lead lives without having to surrender to their circumstances.