Tandem bicycles are designed to allow two people to ride the same bicycle. They have multiple seats, sets of pedal cranks and handlebars, all attached to the same, single bicycle frame. One rider sits behind the other. The riders provide the power to propel the bicycle together, pedaling in unison. Riding a tandem bicycle adds another dimension to the sport of cycling.
Types
Tandem bicycles come in a variety of styles, including beach cruiser types for pleasure riding, performance cycles for regular to heavy-duty riding, off-road models and racing tandems for team competition. There are also triplets, quad and quint tandems that can handle up to five riders at a time.
Construction
Tandem bicycles are composed of a single frame that it is reinforced and extended to accommodate another set of handlebars and seat for another rider. A stem is attached to the forward seat post and holds the handlebars. Because of the increased weight of tandems, good brakes are important. Linear pull brakes, are well-suited to tandems. Disc brakes are also available and provide excellent stopping power.
The frame is designed for another set of pedal cranks that work together with the front set. The drive chain and control cables on a tandem are longer. Other optional items, such as wider captain's handlebars for better leverage, are also available. Frame suspensions have been improved for tandem bicycles over the years. Suspension seat posts for a smoother ride are popular, while frames fitted with shock absorbers significantly improve ride quality.
Riding Roles
Riding a tandem bicycle is a little different than a regular bicycle. It requires a coordinated effort on the part of both riders. The front rider is in charge of the team and is usually referred to as the captain or pilot. This person should know how to handle a bicycle well and be an experienced rider. The captain's is responsible for steering, braking, shifting and balancing at a full stop.
The stoker is the engine for the cycling team and can apply more power because he doesn't have to concentrate on steering. The stoker needs to refrain from causing unexpected shifts in weight, such as attempting to steer or making adjustments to seat or foot position. This can make maneuvering the cycle more difficult.
Riding Technique
Because the tandem bicycle is heavier it will not accelerate as fast. A coordinated effort on the part of both riders is essential to start off, working together to power, balance and maneuver the cycle. Establishing a rhythm of pedaling when tandem cycling is also important. The captain sets this rhythm because the control of the gear shift is the captain's responsibility. The captain needs to take the skill and ability of the stoker into consideration when setting pace. The riders must also agree on when to pedal and when to coast. The additional weight of a tandem bicycle is also important to consider when stopping.
Advantages
Tandems allow cyclists of different ability to ride together in a way where the faster rider is not outrunning the slower one or waiting for the other rider to catch up. Tandems are well suited for riders who are blind or have physical limitations that prevent them from riding a single bicycle. It also allows two people, such as a couple or parent and child, to ride together more safely. Tandems are also well-suited to long-distance riding because they can be loaded up with a lot of traveling gear.
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