Quote:
Originally Posted by look 171
Two strong men on a tandem is definitely something to fear on the flats or slight rolling hills.
There were these two guys that were cat 2 track riders that come out with their tandem on our training ride. They have always put the fear of God on us due to their power. They can stay above 30 on the flats, easy. Once the road starts going up, then we hammer them all the way to the finish. Because they are both very experience and strong riders, we can't always drop them all that fast on the hills because they put up a hell of a fight. They just keep coming.
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^ha, that's what I'm talking about!
Ascents are like a steam locomotive. Working and communication is crucial. One would think with two it would be an easier climb but never seems to be. Our set-up is prepped for steeps that spins like a hamster cage. We get there but definitely slower.
And then comes the downhill..... carving and picking the line during switchbacks. You need more of the tarmac. Different handling with a longer wheelbase, smoothness is crucial, hopefully not upset anything. This means the stoker can't be whipping their head out trying to look over but have complete trust in the captain. They've got to remain neutral but have strong smooth pedaling. You can't make quick last second maneuvers as with riding solo.
Then its about the mass and its effect on brakes. Schmokin' hot. I do have a rear drum 'drag' brake thats operated with a separate lever. Any heat is kept away from the rims / tires. Newer disc set-ups make good sense. I like letting it loose with gravity having its way. However my lovely stoker gets a little wheezy and sometimes hear her yelling something or other. Could be she's screaming 'faster, faster' but what do I know?!
Thoughts of selling it have been discussed but its just so neat to ride on those special days and its always a nice change of pace. Not going to leave the stable yet.