NEWS

Introducing active participation!

Dear Portland Wheelers Community,

For the past 11 years, we have shared so many smiles, stories, and the joy of riding through our community. Our mission has always been to ensure that everyone can experience the thrill of a bike ride, regardless of their physical abilities.

Today, thanks to the kindness of a few incredibly generous supporters, we are thrilled to announce an exciting new chapter for Portland Wheelers. Starting this summer, we are introducing active participation options to our program!

Before sharing the details of our new trikes, I want to assure you of one very important thing: This is an addition, not a replacement. Our passive rides, where our wheelers sit back, relax, chat, and enjoy the scenery while a volunteer pilot operates the trike, remain at the center of what we do. This expansion does not come at the detriment of the amazing people we already serve.

Instead, we are broadening our reach to invite even more people to experience the magic of a Portland Wheelers ride. This is especially for those independent-minded individuals who want to “do it themselves” and get some exercise along the way!

Meet the New Additions to Our Fleet!

We are adding two distinct types of e-assist trikes designed for folks who have the physical ability and desire to do some level of pedaling:

1. The Van Raam Fun2Go (Side-by-Side Trike)

The Experience: On this unique trike, pilot and wheeler sit side-by-side!

How it Works: Both riders can pedal, but the wheeler can pedal as much or as little as they want. The pilot handles all the steering, braking, and navigation, and can easily power the trike solo using the e-assist if the wheeler needs a break.

Who it’s For: This is perfect for individuals who want to get some movement in, but for whom navigating a route, maintaining balance, or completing an entire ride under their own power is a bit too challenging.

2. The Hase Trigo (The Tandem-Link Trikes)

The Experience: Total independence with a built-in safety net. We are adding two of these trikes, and they will always ride together.

How it Works: On the Trigo, the wheeler is in complete control of their own movement—pedaling, steering, shifting, and braking. A pilot will ride alongside on the second Trigo to lead the way and ensure a safe route.

The Coolest Feature: If the wheeler gets tired, these two trikes can actually link together! The pilot can hitch the wheeler’s trike to theirs and power them both to the finish line.

Who it’s For: This is an amazing option for independent-minded people who want complete control over their ride, as well as those pursuing specific rehabilitation or exercise goals with a bit of electrical assist as needed.

By introducing active riding options, we are opening the door to fresh air, social connection, and outdoor friendship for an entirely new group of people. Whether someone wants to sit back and enjoy a passive ride, pedal side by side in conversation, or take full control themselves, Portland Wheelers now has an option that fits perfectly. This furthers our commitment to the idea that Biking is for EveryBODY!

We are so grateful to the generous donors who funded these purchases. We also know that building and delivering a new program comes with challenges and expenses. Will you help?

With excitement and gratitude,

Peter Ryan

Executive Director