Tandem bikes are two-person bicycles. They are also referred to as “twins” because they are specifically designed to be ridden and enjoyed by two people. A tandem bike will bring you closer to your loved ones, allowing you to share exciting journeys and breathtaking scenery. With a tandem bike, you won’t have to keep looking back to see if the other person is still following you. And if your companion is your child, all the better! Knowing they are right behind you will provide you with an incredible sense of calm and comfort.
The Top 8 Tandem Bikes
If you want to learn more about tandem bikes, check out our article “What is a Tandem Bike?”. However, if you’re already familiar with the concept and convinced that you need one, keep reading to find out which tandem bikes are the best and which fit your needs and those of your adventure companion.
1. Schwinn Meridian Tricycle for Adults
This tandem tricycle is ideal for flat terrain, particularly for adults who enjoy outdoor activities. It has plenty of cargo space thanks to the large basket on the back. Aside from these characteristics, the three-wheeled construction of this bike ensures greater stability than other bikes.
Important characteristics
- Single-speed
- Brake with linear pull
- Handlebars that are adjustable
- A wider rear wheel position ensures greater stability than a standard bike.
- The chain guard protects your clothes and shoelaces.
- A padded seat makes long rides more comfortable.
- Allows for a more upright riding position.
- The frame is made of aluminium.
- Cargo basket is ideal for grocery shopping but not for children, pets, or similar items.
Pros
- increased bike stability
- Long rides will be more comfortable with this seat.
- Handlebars that are adjustable
- Several colour options are available.
Cons
- It’s difficult to find one!
2. Adult Tandem Bike Pacific Dualie
This Pacific Dualie Tandem Bike is ideal for riding around town, along the beach, or in parks. Please keep in mind that this bike is only suitable for adults and can support the weight of two people. Above all, this is one of the best tandem bikes for the money.
Important characteristics
- 21-speed microshifters allow for quick and precise gear changes.
- Alloy wheels that are both strong and light.
- Linear-pull alloy brakes
- A lovely street mountain style frame that will provide you and your partner with a comfortable ride.
- 59 kilos (around 26.7 kg)
Pros
- Excellent value for a tandem bike.
- Wheels that are light and strong
Cons
- Colors and patterns are limited.
3. Bike Trailer Burley
If you already own a bicycle, you can travel with your child using this tandem bike trailer. It is recommended for children aged 4 to 10 years old with a maximum weight of 85 pounds and an adult weight-to-child ratio of 2-1.
Important characteristics
- Thumb shifter with 7 speeds
- Lightweight aluminium frame for long-lasting performance.
- Burley trailer cycle hitch with ball-bearing guided pivots for increased stability.
- A front splash guard protects you and your partner from splashes in wet weather conditions.
- Adjustable handlebars and seats to accommodate different heights
- The frame is covered by a five-year warranty, and the hitch and rack are covered by a one-year warranty. The warranty period begins on the date of purchase.
- 18 pounds in weight (or 8 kg).
Pros
- It is very light.
- Various speeds
- Excellent stability for your child
- Adaptable to the child’s growing height
- Warranty is provided.
Cons
- A little pricey
4. Classic Schwinn Twinn
Only adult duo trips are recommended. Its 26-inch wheel accommodates riders ranging in height from 64 to 74 inches. Furthermore, this tandem is best suited for flat areas in your neighbourhood, around the lake, or on a boardwalk.
Important characteristics
- Urban tyres that are tough and fast.
- Front and rear alloy brakes for safe stopping power and speed control
- Dual density grips and saddles that are both stylish and comfortable
- It has alloy calliper brakes that provide excellent stopping power.
- Traditional and comfortable seats
- Frames with a step-through
- 7-speed twist shifter for fast and simple gear changes
- Caliper failure
- Built for an upright riding position that is gentle on your low back.
- Plush fitness seats that are extremely comfortable
- Wheels that are lightweight and durable enough for long-term use
- It comes with a limited lifetime warranty that is valid for the duration of your ownership of the bike.
- It has a classic blue colour scheme.
- It weighs approximately 20.41 kilogrammes.
Pros
- Lifetime warranty
- Various speeds
- Comfortable
- comparatively light
Cons
- It’s a little pricey.
5. 2017 Salsa Powderkeg Tandem 29er Bike
Suitable for daring souls who enjoy riding on rough terrains such as mountain or gravel, thanks to its massive top tube and downtube, which deliver precise tracking even when power is required in the aforementioned terrains.
Important characteristics
- The frame is made of steel.
- Free bike adjustments for one year after purchase and as many times as needed
- Included is a powder keg fork.
- If necessary, serviceable or replaceable hardware
- Height adjustable for the rider/stoker
Pros
- Stable on uneven terrain
- Parts that are serviceable and replaceable
- Adjustable
Cons
- If you’re on a tight budget, this could be a bit pricey.
6. Giordano Tandem Bike, Viaggio
Giordano Viaggio is a strong, yet lightweight bike that is suitable for a wide range of cycling couples, but is primarily designed for a large captain and a small/medium stoker. It also includes an ultra-lightweight bike with a Shimano 16-speed drivetrain. All of this for a reasonable price.
Important characteristics
- Shimano 8-speed shifters with exceptional performance
- Long-lasting 700 x 32 c tyres that make the rider’s journey easier.
- A very reasonable price for a tandem bike, which is normally quite expensive.
- Excellent aluminium frame that is lightweight.
- Seats are extremely comfortable.
Pros
- Of course, following the necessary instructions allows for simple bike assembly.
- For a tandem bike, this is an excellent value.
- Extremely light weight
Cons
- There is only one frame size available.
- There are no disc brakes, only rim brakes.
7. Synergy in Kent
Kent “synergy,” as the name suggests, would be an excellent choice for you and your partner looking for a fun and comfortable ride. It boasts high-quality and long-lasting components, as well as a well-planned frame design that is low in the front and around 20 inches in the back, allowing both riders to easily hop on.
Important characteristics
- 21 different speeds
- A sturdy 6067 aluminium frame
- Linear pull V brakes made of alloy
- Aluminum double-wall rims with a diameter of 26 inches and 32 holes
- Components have a one-year warranty, and the frame has a limited lifetime warranty.
- Soft spring gel saddles provide additional comfort.
- a sturdy kickstand
- There are two water bottle holders.
- Extra-large tyres
- Supports a maximum weight of 400 lbs (or 181 kg for both riders)
- Assembling is required.
- It has a multicoloured design.
Pros
- Excellent design
- Several speeds
- Warranty is provided.
Cons
- None at all.
8. Tandem Bicycle PFIFF
This tandem bicycle is intended for you and your child aged 9 to 12 years old to ride together. The child can assist you with pedalling but does not have to when they are tired; instead, use the freewheel mode. As a result, they can simply relax and enjoy the view. The bike is best suited for daily commuting and transportation in general.
Important characteristics
- 7-speeds
- 24 inches long
- Made of tough aluminium
- It has a front light and a bell.
- Two-legged kickstand
- It weighs 24 kg.
Pros
- Various speeds
- Increased security with the included light and bell
- The double leg kickstand provides more stability.
Cons
- A little pricey
What to Look for When Purchasing Tandem Bicycles
Dimensions and fit
Because a tandem bike is designed to be used by two people, it takes some effort to find a size that fits both. It is always preferable to try it on before purchasing; however, if you are purchasing online, we recommend that you measure the captain’s height and inside leg measurement ahead of time, as well as the stoker’s. You must then check the tandem’s description to see if the sizing matches your measurements.
Finally, keep in mind that it is recommended that the taller person serve as captain, while the shorter person serves as stoker.
Brakes
When it comes to purchasing a tandem bike, choosing the right brakes is critical because a tandem bike will carry at least twice the weight of a solo bike. In this regard, you must decide whether to go with rim or disc brakes, and for the sake of greater safety, we recommend that you go with the latter (disc brakes), because rim brakes may be adequate for a solo bike, but they are not suitable for the longer slides that are often required in a tandem bike.
Aside from that, such brakes may heat the rim to the point where the tyre blows off. As a result, disc brakes with 8″ rotors are the best option, owing to their ability to cool down and stop faster.
Roles of the riders
Two people ride a tandem bike: the captain and the stoker. The captain should be heavier and stronger, but the stoker does not have to be skilled. That is not to say he is a passenger, but rather “a partner.” Furthermore, a captain must have excellent riding skills, be responsible, and have quick reflexes, whereas a stoker must have sufficient strength and durability to ensure consistent pedalling power.
The captain’s role is critical, as they must be alert to try to avoid unexpected occurrences and notify the stoker in advance to take the necessary action. In this regard, the stoker should not leave complete control of the bike to the captain, but should be able to contribute, even if it is simply motivating, entertaining, or taking photos.
Read Tandem Riding the Right Way: How to Ride a Tandem Bike? if you want to learn more about riding a tandem bike.
Pedals
These are also an essential component of a tandem bike. You may be torn between flat pedals and clipless pedals. To make the best decision, keep in mind that if you are a beginner cyclist, flat pedals are preferable because they are much easier to manoeuvre. However, if you are a seasoned cyclist, you may prefer clipless pedals because they are more efficient and provide a better connection to the bike.
Last Thoughts
Choosing the best tandem bike in such a crowded market is difficult. Having one, on the other hand, is extremely rewarding: it allows you to share the most incredible riding adventures with your closest friends and family. Hopefully, this guide has provided you with all of the information required to compare and contrast the tandem bikes presented, making your decision-making process as simple as possible.
