Tandems, like standard single bikes, come in a wide range of forms and sizes. Choosing the right size for each rider is crucial to ensure maximum enjoyment. This article offers some tips on how to choose the right size tandem bicycle and which wheels to use for different types of riding.
Twin Tandem Frame Sizes
Tandem frames typically come with variable sizes, for example, L/S corresponding to 19”/15.5” or M/S, equal to 18”/15.5.” Couples with wildly differing heights may think that the bike has to fit the smallest rider, when this is usually not the case.
The most important rule of thumb when buying a tandem is to match the frame size to the Captain, the person riding at the front. The reason for this is that the best way to learn to ride a two seater bike is for the person at the back, the stoker, to start seated with both feet on the pedals. In order to do this, the captain must bear the weight of the bike and his/her partner, so must be able to straddle the bike with both feet on the floor.
As the stoker is seated most of the time and the bike can be leaned over by the captain when starting or stopping, there is no real reason for the stoker to be able to stand over the frame’s top tube.
Customizing a Tandem
Most production tandems have a rear that is 1-3” shorter than the front. For couples with a tiny stoker, some bike manufacturers make tandems with a bigger size difference between front and rear; these are most often custom made and/or have accessories added like a second set of cranks placed higher on the rear seat post or crank shorteners to allow the shorter person to reach the pedals.
While in most cases, the taller, heavier person takes the captain’s role, it is also possible for a shorter person to ride in front by ordering a customized tandem for appropriate heights; it is worth noting, however, that a heavier/taller stoker’s movements may have a bigger effect on bike handling.
Tandem Wheels
Tandems come with either 26” mountain bike wheels or 700cc road wheels. Which to choose depends on the type of riding each couple plans to do. For first time tandem buyers, the most popular choice is 26” mainly as they offer more versatility to ride both off and on-road trails. For smaller riders, 26” wheels may also offer a better fit and avoid the need to purchase a custom-made bike.
When the average price of a tandem is at least twice that of a similar specification single bike, as there are twice as many parts and those parts need to be stronger, being able to purchase a production bicycle rather than a custom specific model makes a big difference on price.
Visit a Specialty Tandem Bike Store Before Buying
Ultimately, a tandem is a major purchase so talking to a specialty bike store is critical to get the best fit. Couples of different heights may have to make a compromise to get the exact fit right for the stoker, but the correct stand-over frame size for the captain is key.
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Also of interest for parents considering using a tandem with accessories, may be How to Buy a Child Bike Seat and Why Buy a Child Trailer?
Helen Smeaton - Helen Smeaton runs a cycling and hiking business and is also a freelance writer and web designer. Read her profile for more information
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