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...

Geared tandems require more consistent and regular maintenance of the derailleur cables. The longer length and additional housing combine to degrade shifting performance. To ensure proper shifting performance tandem teams should plan on replacing the cables and housing on a regular maintenance interval....

Much like celebrity deaths it seems that flats come in threes. First there is the during ride flat caused by a sharp thorn. Then there is the secondary flat from a small leak caused by an unseen remaining thorn. Finally there is the third flat that makes you scratch your head and think unclean thoughts....

So have you heard the new one? That Fabian Cancellara, the multiple World Champion professional bike racer, used a hidden electric assist device on his bikes to win two of the major Spring classics? The rumors had become so fervent that the racer was forced to take the time and actually deny the charges....

Transporting a tandem can be a difficult proposition. Custom roof rack add-ons, pick up trucks, and SUVs are generally the only secure methods for getting a tandem from point A to point B. Enter the S&S Coupler. Designed and manufactured by S and S Machine in Roseville, CA the fittings are intended...

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...

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...

In a move to better the use of Google Maps by cyclists nationwide Google has added bike routing ability to Google Maps. This addition required significant programming by Google to account for bike friendly streets, grades, and traffic patterns. Until now tandem teams were forced to use “walking”...

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...

We found this unique little experiment while perusing the web. The creation by “Carl” reportedly was an answer to a challenge posed by his son to create an electric-assist tandem. Rather than go with a hub drive electric motor he went all out. The robot pedals out a steady cadence from the...