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Tandems
Back in the 1970's tandems almost disappeared and were just kept alive by a
handful of custom builders, mostly British. In recent years they have made a
comeback and are now mass-produced by most good manufactures in many different
styles such as road, touring, hybrid/trekking and mountain bike with some even
having full-suspension. One of the downsides to buying a tandem is the price as
they usually cost the same as two bikes and often more as a result of the
engineering involved.
Tandems are ideal when you have two riders of different abilities, ages or
sex, as they are able to ride together. People choose to ride tandems for many
different reasons and the benefits of tandem riding are numerous, tandem riding
is to experience the pleasure of cycling together irrespective of different
fitness levels, and most importantly, fun.
The most important measurements are:
- C: top tube, i.e. reach - you don't want to be overstretched or 'bunched
up' on the bike;
- J: standover - you should have at least and inch clearance when standing
over the top tube (this does not mean that you'll be able to touch the floor
when sitting on the saddle, as this is a different measurement)
- D: frame size - see relevant bike type sizing charts.
Find our tandems here
Cannondale has a very precise mountain tandem sizing chart
as well as their road tandem sizing chart.
which may be useful for determining your requirements.
The UK Tandem Club may be of interest for activities, technical information and spares for out-of-production tandems.
