"The independence I've gained is massive. I don't have to rely on anybody and I don't put hassle on anybody else."
The right side of Mr Taikato's body has been damaged since a car crash more than 10 years ago. He's a slow talker and an awkward walker, and his right arm and leg are twisted.
Locals know Mr Taikato and usually pick him up when they see him, but he is wary of hitching on State Highway 2 and traffic is light on the back road to Waihi.
The Escape 26 Hard Tail electric bike was donated by Waihi Beach's Steve Harries, the owner of online seller Escape Bikes. It retails for $2000, has a top speed of 25km/h and a range of 50km to 60km.
"I heard about Alan and thought we could help out," Mr Harries said. "He needed it more than I did."
Mrs Carroll said she was "amazed and humbled" by all the people who had offered support.
Apart from the bike donation, a Waihi cycle group was helping to source items to kit out the bike and a Katikati club had offered to build a ramp up to Mr Taikato's house so he could store his bike safely inside.
Locals have also been donating cash through Waihi Beach Physiotherapy to buy accessories including gloves, racks and panniers.
Physio owner Liz Garmey said there had been a lot of talk on social media about Mr Taikato's situation.
Apart from his weekly Waihi visits, Mr Taikato plans to use his bike to help get to Matakana Island to see family.
"I haven't been able to visit them for a long time."
