Tandem bicycle riding is more than a novelty; it turns an individual activity into a team effort, uniting riders and creating tight bonds. If you've decided to try tandem cycling, you will quickly realize that choosing a tandem bicycle is a very unique process. When looking for the best tandem cycle for you and your partner, consider style, fit, features and frame material.
Style
Just like regular bicycles, tandem bicycles come in different styles to suit various terrain choices and riding preferences. There are three basic tandem style choices: road; leisure; and mountain. The best tandem cycle will suit you --- and your partner's --- riding goals. Road, or touring, tandem cycles are built to be light and fast. If you plan on long distance trips on paved surfaces, choose a road or touring tandem. Leisure tandems are made with heavier frames, wider tires, more padded seats and limited gearing. Choose a leisure or cruiser tandem if you plan on going for short afternoon rides on fairly flat surfaces. Mountain bike tandems are less common. But they can provide an interesting way to explore trails that are off the beaten path.
Fit
Fitting a tandem bicycle is more complicated than fitting a standard bicycle. Because many tandem teams are composed of people of different sizes, you need to find a frame that provides the best compromise between body types. In general, the larger rider, or "captain," goes in front. The front rider is responsible for steering, gear changes and stabilizing the bike when stopped. Because of this, you should choose a bike that allows the front rider to stand comfortably over the frame and support the bike. Also, the front rider needs to be able to reach the handlebars and gear shifters easily. Make sure that the rear rider's reach to handlebars and pedals is comfortable, but stand-over height is not as important for the rear rider.
Features and Materials
A tandem bicycle needs to have the features and options that you and your partner value in a normal bicycle. Consider how many mounts the bicycle has. Mounts are used to attach accessories including water bottle holders, fenders, lights and reflectors. The more mounts your bike has, the more accessories you can add. Also consider the frame material. Most frames are made with either aluminum, steel or a steel alloy. In general, steel and steel alloys are stronger, but aluminum frames weigh less and often are more affordable.
Considerations
Because sizing a tandem bicycle requires compromises by both riders, the best tandem is the one that you upgrade and tune to suit your individual needs. Consider changes in handlebar stem and seat post height, crank arm length and seat style. Change each of these components to adjust the fit and comfort of the bike to each rider. The best tandem bicycle is a work in progress, adjusting and changing as you add miles and experience.
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