Why Tandem?
Because it is Practical and Fun! Tandeming can :-
- Improve relationships between partners or family,
particularly when the riders speeds are quite different!
On solo bicycles, one rider is normally miles ahead of
the other causing frustration to both. The tandem evens
out these differences.
- Enable young members of the family to appreciate cycling
in safety. Tandems can be adapted to carry youngsters of
all ages - the Kids and Tandems
section covers some of the options available.
- Improve health and fitness
- Lead to greater appreciation of the wildlife, countryside,
towns and villages than is possible using motorised
transport
- Allow those who cannot normally cycle to experience the
pleasures of fresh air, movement and exercise
- Increase distances that can be covered in the day
- Add to the enjoyment of cycling
- Lead to many new friendships with other tandemists and
cyclists
How to try Tandeming
Buying a tandem is a major commitment, so it is a good idea to
try before you commit.
There are several options available:
- Contact us for advice ().
We may be able to put you in contact with other riders in
our group who may let one or both of you try a tandem.
You are also welcome to join our rides on solo bicycles
if you wish. The About our Group
page tells you a little more about our aims, and how to
contact us.
- Tandems are available for trial or hire from some
manufacturers (Orbit, Southern Tandems (otherwise known
as Locks of Sandwich), probably many others - St John
Street cyles is probably worth a try)
- Your local bike shop. Some dealers stock tandems, Finches
in Reigate usually have a Dawes tandem in stock, but ring
before making a special journey.
Buying a Tandem
Buying a tandem is a serious investment. If you are
considering splashing out, you are welcome to contact us for
impartial advice.
Some members have reported significant savings when buying a
tandem in America and combining the trip with a holiday to test
the machine. this approach clearly needs some planning and maybe
ordering in advance. Some members have also reported problems,
particularly with Santana (see Tandem Club Journal Feb 2000).
If it is your first tandem, it may be worth considering a
second-hand machine. The classified sections of the Tandem Club
Journal or Cycletouring (the CTC
magazine) are both good sources.
The technical section of this site
explains some of the basic things to look for.