How to Make a Tandem Bicycle Work
The tandem bicycle is a unique two-wheeled contraption. It requires two people to make it work, and it has a number of complexities to keep the riders safe. They must also coordinate pedal movements to avoid hitting the ground.
A tandem bike is a lot harder to steer than a solo bike, and it isn’t as easy to make turns. If you are riding downhill, you have to be careful with the rear wheels. This may require you to manually lift the front wheel. You can also install drum brakes as an emergency brake.
A tandem bicycle isn’t as simple to control as a single bike, but the effort is rewarded by a smoother ride and fewer crashes. For this reason, a tandem is a great choice for parents who want to teach their kids how to ride safely.
To make a tandem bicycle work, you’ll need a good pair of bike shoes, a helmet, and a few other essentials. You can also buy or build a custom tandem. When making a custom tandem, you’ll need to find a suitable frame builder, and you’ll need to take measurements of each of your riders. After the frames are assembled, you’ll need to assemble the bikes and install the gears. In a pinch, you can use a hacksaw to cut off the front head tube.
You’ll also need to install a handlebar mounted LED light and a small speaker that can be controlled by the person in the rear. These are small details, but they are important. Your rear partner can look up a map, set up a music station, and help you navigate. Adding a wireless speaker to the front of the bike is another good idea.
A tandem bicycle can be a fun and exciting experience, if you know how to properly maintain it. Chains need to be kept clean, and you should also keep your chains tensioned to prevent slipping. Having the wrong sized chain rings can cause major problems, so you’ll need to have your tandem fitted for both the front and rear.
A tandem is also heavier than a single bike. As a result, you’ll need to take into account the weight of your passengers and the heavy gear you’re carrying. Whether you’re touring or just biking around town, you’ll want to invest in extra spokes for the back wheel.
One of the most gratifying things about a tandem is the ability to take a break when you need to. Depending on your level of fitness, you may even have the time to enjoy a nice meal at a local cafe. However, you should not rely solely on this feature, as it can get expensive fast.
It’s also important to remember that a tandem isn’t for everyone. You might not be able to ride a tandem if you’re shorter than your partner, or if you’re more athletic than your partner. While you are out riding, you’ll also need to pay attention to traffic. Getting hit by a car or a bus can easily wreck a tandem.