Does Tha Ride Tandem?

[bikeworkshop]

Good point - modern tandems are much stiffer and handle better. As said upthread, it will also make modern braking possible.

When two tandemists meet, the conversation always ends up about braking!

Additionally drop bar tandem is not for the novice, and the stoker will want a view of more than the pilot's arse cleavage.
clunky vintage gear change is harder to live with, adapting gears is a challenge on old kit, and swapping parts to make it work for you would be difficult.

Old tandems are usually worthless for a reason, and that's usability

 

[Mkane]

My wife and I bought our first in 1989. They don’t stop very well unless there's a disc up front and it’s used properly.

 

[ferrus]

I'll probably fit a disc brake to the front for safety.

To the 1940's Barra?? That's honestly not a good idea at all.

As mentioned, for the intended purpose a more modern, far-better performing bike would be a lot more suitable, however tempting the Barra might be. That's a bike to polish and pamper - for gentle pootles, not aggressive riding or "competition".

 

[bikeworkshop]

To the 1940's Barra?? That's honestly not a good idea at all.

As mentioned, for the intended purpose a more modern, far-better performing bike would be a lot more suitable, however tempting the Barra might be. That's a bike to polish and pamper - for gentle pootles, not aggressive riding or "competition".

Or sharing experiences with the uninitiated!

A disc brake would probably tear the funny end off.

 

[ferrus]

Indeed. Sounds like a single-ride experience of terror, guaranteed to put everyone involved off tandems for life!

 

[bagpuss]

Can you rent a Tandem from a bike hire shop anywhere near by .
Some Tandems tend to wallow horribly when putting the power in . ( power transfer)
We found it of when trying out the beginners models.
In the end I purchased a Mtb Cannondale frame . Had it built up by Mercians .
I ran out of bottle long before road holding became an issue.
Over sized alloy main tubes . Rode as if was on rails .
26 inch mtb wheel size .
Maxi car front hub . Campagnolo Tandem rear . Sunny rhino rims . All bomb proof .
Regretted we stopped riding it