Help Daniel (and Paul) Get a New Tandem E-Trike

For nearly 30 years, my dad Paul has taken my brother Daniel on a tandem bike ride through their hometown of Leavenworth, Washington. They ride a five-mile loop, down through the neighborhood, past the shops downtown, and back up to their house. It’s been a part of their daily routine for so long that most people in town recognize them instantly.

Daniel is 39 and has Down syndrome and back issues. My dad, now 78, started the rides in the early '90s to help Daniel stretch his legs and get some exercise. The ride is one of the highlights of his day — a way to get moving, to see people, to be out in the world. Daniel calls out “hello” to just about everyone they pass. Neighbors come out to wave. Some even say they know the seasons are changing when they see the two of them back out on the bike.

Their current setup — a recumbent tandem they’ve had since around 2010 — has held up remarkably well. But after logging more than 15,000 miles, it’s seen better days. The frame is worn, the ride is unstable, and when Daniel shifts his weight to wave or turn his head, the whole thing wobbles. My dad, who is recovering from cancer treatment, still rides with him often, but it’s not getting any easier.

That’s why we’re trying to raise money for a new battery-assisted tandem trike. The extra stability and pedal support would make a huge difference for my dad, who’s doing his best to stay active and healthy while also making sure Daniel still gets his ride.

We’re hoping to get them a Rover Tandem e-trike, which offers both the stability and assistance they need to keep going safely. We’ve spent the past few months researching options — talking to dealers, comparing models, and trying to find something that balances comfort, durability, and safety. The Rover stood out for a few key reasons: it’s a recumbent trike, so it eliminates the risk of tipping over, and the pedal-assist battery helps make brief uphill stretches more manageable. It’s not cheap, but it’s exactly the kind of upgrade that would make a huge difference in their daily life.

All funds raised will go directly toward the cost of the trike plus a small fee to a local bike shop to assemble the trike. If we don't reach the full amount needed to purchase the bike, we won’t accept anyone’s money — your donation will be returned. We’re committed to making sure your support goes only to this purpose. If we happen to raise more than we need, every extra dollar will be donated to Upper Valley Connection, a local organization that supports people with disabilities — including Daniel — right here in the Wenatchee Valley.

If you’re able to pitch in, we’d be incredibly grateful. Thanks for reading, and thanks for helping us keep this ride going.