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Written by Sarah Waterhouse, 16/07/10

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A disabled biker who lost his mobility in a motorcycle accident has taken his first steps in five years with the help of a robotic exoskeleton.

Hayden Allen, who damaged his spinal cord in a bike smash and was told by doctors that he would never walk again, can now move around on his feet by using 'Rex', a pair of robotic legs.

In news that may be encouraging to motorcycle insurance policyholders, Mr Allen is no longer wheelchair-bound and can walk, stand and move up and down stairs.

"I'll never forget what it was like to see my feet walking under me the first time I used Rex," said the former mechanic.

"People say to me, 'Look up when you're walking' but I just can't stop staring down at my feet moving."

The New Zealand motorcyclist can now interact with people at eye level.

Rex is powered by a long-life rechargeable battery and can carry out a full day of movement on one charge. It can be moved using a joystick and control pad after users strap themselves in.

The exoskeleton weighs 38 kilograms (84 pounds) and is tailor-made for each user. It will go on sale in New Zealand later this year, with exports expected to begin in 2011.

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