Whirlwind Wheelchair

A non-profit social enterprise dedicated to improving the lives of people with disabilities in the developing world while also promoting sustainable local economic development

RoughRider

Ralf Testing Tire

Whirlwind Founder and Chief Engineer Ralf Hotchkiss spent most of the summer in Chinandega, Nicaragua working on, among other things, the “thorny” issue of flat-free tires. Above is a photo of Ralf at work. When traveling, Ralf rides a standard RoughRider off the assembly line and interacts with a diverse group of people with disabilities who trust him well enough to give … [Read more...] about Ralf Testing Tire

Durability & Value: Understanding the Whirlwind Approach

What wheelchair is best? Can be determined differently by many people. Some riders request increased access to generally inaccessible areas. Others prefer comfort. Some require specific seating to better personal health. Many fall somewhere in between the three. In order to maximize one’s potential, regardless of physical ability, a wheelchair is most valuable when it gives the … [Read more...] about Durability & Value: Understanding the Whirlwind Approach

Summer 2011 NewsNotes

In this issue: Whirlwind will soon be offering our acclaimed RoughRider wheelchair in the U.S. Once final testing and adjustments to the RoughRider® are complete, Whirlwind will begin with a 100 person test market group. By early fall, sales will be opened to the general public via our website. Whirlwind received FDA approval to sell the RoughRider® in the U.S. this past … [Read more...] about Summer 2011 NewsNotes

Whirlwind Wheelchair International and the RoughRider

An introduction to Whirlwind Wheelchair International and our newest chair, the RoughRider, an all-terrain wheelchair built by and for riders in the developing world. Whirlwind is a non-profit wheelchair company that specializes in creating durable low cost wheelchair technology that gives riders the opportunity to explore more places and do more things. … [Read more...] about Whirlwind Wheelchair International and the RoughRider