Tandem Bicycles

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to cycle in a tandem bicycle? These are bicycles that allow two persons to sit and cycle together, one at the front and another at the rear. Usually, the front person, called the captain will do the turning and determine the tandem bicycle direction. The back person is called the stoker.

Why you should ride tandems

Tandem bicycles are a popular bike type for couples. You no longer have to worry about cycling too fast and leaving someone behind.

Another benefit from riding the tandem is the rear cyclist gets to enjoy the view! While the front person might have to keep watch of road conditions, the rear person is free. All he or she needs to do is keep pedaling.

The person at the back could also keep useful rations like food and water in the bag. This is due to their free hands.

Although you might think that a tandem is tad too long, other vehicle users will often be friendly to you. Riding a tandem bicycle is rare and people do not always get the chance to see one.

Getting started on the saddle

Usually, the captain (front person) needs to be more experienced. When starting out, the captain has to sit first and apply the brakes (to keep the bike stationary). At the same time, the stoker has to get on the bike. Then, the two cyclists must work together when initiating the tandem bicycle to move forward. It takes teamwork.

Steering

When turning, the stoker needs to lean in the turning direction, along with the captain. Otherwise, this could cause an imbalance and the bike being unstable. The captain also has to warn the stoker at the back for any income holes or bumps too.

Road biking

Think of the tandem bicycle as a road bike. They are the same. Usually, tandem bicycles are much faster than a single road bike. Why is that? This is because there are 2 persons pedaling the bicycle, which gives it twice its power. 

Mountain biking

Is this possible? Yes. Even if the tandem bicycle's length might be worrying, it will be fine as long as you plan your way through the trails and hills. A tandem bicycle is also more stable due to its length and weight.

Especially when riding downhill, the bike will always stay straight. It is far less likely to crash if compared with a single mountain bike. Braking hard at the front will not make the tandem jerk forward at all.

Riding uphill is also a plus point. There is more traction because of the extra weight, not to mention dual-engine cyclists!

You should check out some mountain tandem bikes in the store. Some manufacturers have made them just for this purpose. They even have suspension system and disc brakes.

Riding tandems can be fun. Now you should read about mens biking shorts. Besides that, be sure to know how to buy cycling shorts

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Freddy_R._Johnson