The tandem bicycle offers some advantages over conventional single-rider bikes. Tandem cycling is a social activity. You may be part of a parent-child team, for example, or ride with cyclists of differing ability. Because there are two riders, tandem bicycles are fast and racing is a popular sport in many countries. Persons with disabilities like blindness also participate as part of tandem cycle teams as well.
Identification
A tandem bicycle is simply a bike designed for two riders. Both riders provide power by pedaling. The pedals and chain for each rider are connected by a "sync chain." A device called an eccentric is used to adjust the sync chain so everything works together. Most tandem bicycles have a drum brake on the rear wheel in addition to the hand brakes you see on single-seat bikes.
Types
Tandem bicycle models are comparable to those available for single-seat bikes. You can get touring models for longer road trips, off-road versions similar to mountain or trail bikes, and racing tandem bikes. The power of two riders makes tandem bicycles fast, and racing is popular. Some exotic designs are marketed with features like the ability for one rider to pedal while the other coasts and rests. "Sociables" are tandem bicycles with side-by-side seats instead of the standard in-line arrangement.
Teams
The lead rider of a tandem bicycle team is called the captain. She has the responsibility for steering and for holding the bike upright when stopped. In general cyclists who take the captain's role are experienced riders. The rear cyclist of a team is called the stoker. The stoker does not steer, but must maintain alignment with the captain. For example, as stoker you lean into turns, following the lead of the captain. However, because the stoker does not have to worry about guiding a tandem bicycle, he frequently is able to provide more pedaling power. Both captain and stoker must learn to coordinate their actions, and forming a team that rides well takes practice.
Sizing
Choosing the right size tandem bicycle is more complicated than it is for single-seat bikes. Making sure the captain has a good fit is important. The captain should be able to straddle the bike with one to two inches clearance. Handlebars are often set somewhat higher than for conventional bikes to minimize upper-body fatigue. Seat height is especially important because the stoker's handlebars attach to the captain's seat post, limiting the seat's adjustable range. As long as the stoker can reach the handlebars without strain and the rear seat is comfortable, you have a good tandem bicycle fit.
Cycling for the Blind
One of the most interesting features of tandem cycling is the participation of many people with disabilities, especially those who are blind or visually impaired. Tandem cycling is possible with a team in which the captain is sighted and the stoker has limited or no vision. Sanctioned races are governed by U.S. Association of Blind Athletes, or USABA, rules. Tandem bike racing for the blind is a regular event in the Paralympic Games.
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