A tandem bicycle features seats and corresponding pedals for two or more riders, sitting one behind the other. A "sociable" tandem has two seats and sets of handlebars side by side, and were once popular with courting couples. A tandem bike for two riders is sometimes referred to as a "bicycle built for two," in reference to a popular song of the late 1800s.
The Song
When English songwriter Harry Dacre arrived on American shores in 1891, he was unpleasantly surprised to learn that he was expected to pay customs duty on the bicycle he had brought along for the visit. A friend jokingly told him it was lucky he didn't have "a bicycle for two," inspiring Dacre to write the famous lyrics to the song "Daisy Bell"--also called "Bicycle Built For Two:"
"Daisy, Daisy, give me your answer do; I'm half crazy all for the love of you. It won't be a stylish marriage; I can't afford a carriage. But you'll look sweet upon the seat of a bicycle built for two."
Tandem History
Bicycle makers began patenting tandem bikes towards the end of the 1800s. One such inventor was Mikael Pedersen of Denmark, whose tandem bicycle for two weighed 24 lbs., and tandem for four weighed 64 lbs. Although tandems were very popular around the turn of the 20th century, they became less common as technology improved regular bicycles. According to the website BikeForTwo.com, Bill McReady of Santana Cycles has generated new enthusiasm for modern tandems, which feature improved construction and materials.
Development
Today's tandem bikes include models which allow for independent pedaling, where each rider is responsible for pedaling one wheel only. Tandem bicycle fans can also purchase a recumbent tandem, in which the riders pedal seated in a comfortable recumbent position. A special tandem called a "buddy bike" allows an adult to control the steering from the rear, while the second rider safely enjoys the view from the front seat. Such bicycles are especially useful for giving young children, or children or adults with special needs, the ability to enjoy a bicycle ride.
Terminology
By tradition, the names used to describe the riders of a tandem bicycle were based on nautical terminology, and tandem enthusiasts still use these terms today. The lead rider, who is responsible for steering the bike, is referred to as the steersman or captain. The rider in back, who helps power the bicycle by pedaling, is called the stoker or rear admiral, according to the Bicycle.org website.
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