The majority of tandems are setup with what can best be described as bomb proof wheels. Given the extra weight and torsional forces placed on the spokes, rim, and hubs a decent set will include 36 count 15 gauge spokes, appropriately matched to heavy gauge hubs and rims. Even the best made wheels will...

The majority of tandems use an eccentric bottom bracket to allow chain line tension adjustments between the front captain crank and rear stoker crank. The eccentric uses wedges and internal tension to hold the bottom bracket in place within the frame. The eccentric bottom bracket is a simple piece of...

Taking regular care of your tandem will extend the service life of your parts, reduce friction while riding, and prevent mid-ride breakdowns. The proper process for maintaining your drive-train varies slightly based upon components and setup but the basics are all the same. Before Every Ride Wipe old...

Question: I just purchased a used tandem from a family friend. The tandem bike is a bit old, has seen its better days, and I am unsure of my next step. What is your advise for someone who has just purchased a used tandem? Answer: Used tandems present a unique opportunity for tandem teams to enter into...

Selecting the proper tire or tire combination for your tandem is vital to the safe operation of your tandem. Road Tandem Tires – generally tandem teams look for a wider profile “touring” type tire with thread casing in the 100+ tpi area. With the narrow profile and short sidewalls road...

For first time tandem riders it is often most difficult to fathom the extreme vibrations transmitted to the stoker via their seatpost. On a single seat bike the frame geometry allows for a balance between front and back end vibrations. Tandems on the other hand, with the long wheelbase, focus a majority...

For some the idea of safety on a bicycle is making sure their shoelaces are tied to avoid tangling the laces in the pedal. For others, with a keener eye towards self-preservation, a few safety tips can go a long way to making rides on a tandem bicycle safer and more enjoyable. The options available to...

The one thing all tandems have in common is that they utilize a lot of moving parts. With the additional moving parts comes additional sources of annoying creaks, cracks, and strange noises. The primary cause of unwanted noise on a tandem bike is movement between two solid metal parts. During installation...

Reader Bill asks “Our rear bottom bracket on the tandem bicycle has seized… my question would be, did water get into the bottom bracket and freeze it up? If so, what would be your recommendation of replacement?” After a few hundred tough miles on the mountain bike tandem the downhill...

Like all the components on a tandem the tires and tubes are stressed to their max while in service by a tandem team. The tubes in particular can wear rapidly and require special attention during maintenance. Regular inner tubes are designed and manufactured with solo bikes in mind. The density and pressure...