Originally Posted by zonatandem
A suspension seatpost is not a 'MUST', but many stokers like them.
Having said that, Kay has been riding as stoker for 30+ and does not use a suspension seatpost. Short stoker? Kay is 4' 10 3/4" tall! We do ride a custom tandem for proper fit for her.
An alternative would be spring saddle that soaks up some of the rough stuff.
Pedal Oon TWOgether!
Rudy and Kay/Zonatandem
My wife is also 4' 10" tall and she is much happier since I got her a Brooks B67S seat with springs. I like Brooks sprung saddles also and have a B67 for me on our tandem.