Tandem Bicycles

For several years we have been riding a tandem bicycle and found it to be a pleasurable way to see the sites, to get exercise, to meet nice people, and to share an activity with each other.

We've biked many trails in Virginia, West Virginia, Montreal, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and other areas of the U.S.

Pictured above is a Miyata Duplicross tandem which we rode for several years. It is a steel frame and, at the time of purchase, equipped with good components. It is a stiff and strong bike which adapts itself to riding both on and off road. Somewhat heavy but usually reliable, we put on a few thousand miles.

One serious crash (no broken bones but some aches and bruises) was caused by excess speed in bad conditions. The stoker forgave the captain.

Tandem riding is a cooperative experience.

(1) Always clue each other in about coming hazards, gear shifts, quick turns, and abrupt speed changes.

(2) Trust that your partner is pedaling as fast as they wish but gentle persausion may gain a little more speed.

(3) Tandems go very fast on the flat and down the hills. It is fun but crashes can happen.

Above is our Trek T2000. The bike has an aluminum frame but is no less stiff and stable than the Miyata.

The bike is fitted with top components, tapered spokes on Bontagger wheels. It is an easier pedal than the Miyata, is more sprightly in handling, and lacks some of the wear, tear, and groans of our older bike.

It was selected after test riding several tandems at a broad range of prices.