The first tandem bicycle was simply two bikes welded together and around 1890 the tandem bicycle was patented. Now, tandem bicycles are high end customized riding machines. In fact, there are even tandem bikes that are ridden off paved roads. Obviously, a bicycle built for two is perfect for the couple as these bikes are great exercise. The couples work as a team, a tandem also can bring couples together in what is normally a solo activity.
There are several terms that you should learn when talking about a tandem bike. The first are the terms used to describe the riders. The front seat rider is celled either a captain, steersman o pilot. The back seat rider also has different names. Some of those names are rear admiral, navigator or the stoker.
Like many hobbyists tandem biking, enthusiasts have their own vocabulary. For example, a front-seat rider is called a captain, pilot, or steersman. And the back driver is called either a rear admiral or navigator.
Moreover, there are different types of tandem bikes. Here, are there of the most common types of tandem bicycles: 1. Bicycle Tandem: this bike has two wheels, seats, handlebars, and cranks. And they have a single chain. 2. The Tricycle Tandem Bicycle: as it implies has three wheels. This bike has a single wheel in the front and dual wheels in the back of the bike. 3. Recumbent Tandem Bicycle: with a recumbent bike, instead of being upright, the riders are situated in a reclined position.
Additionally, along with the traditional bike manufacturers (Kent, Pacific and Trek are two big bike makers who make tandem bikes) there are several custom bikes manufactures who make the tandem bicycle. One of the he most well known high-end tandem bike manufacturer is co-Motion. Co-Motion is based out of Eugene, Oregon and if money is no object you should buy one. But, you should be warned that the cheapest mode starts at $4,695 and if you want you can spend over $8,000 for a tandem.
So, if you have family, you should at least look into getting a bicycle built for two. Below is a link for reasonably priced tandems. So, take a look. It’s free after all 🙂