Originally Posted by photogeek

Since you are in the bay area, I'd highly recommend making an appointment at Crank2 in Pleasanton, and spend several hours test riding different bikes. I believe their least expensive KHS tandems start around $1000. Even if you don't want to buy new, you can get a good feel for what size and style you prefer, as well as get some great coaching for how to start, stop, and succeed as a team.

My wife and I bought our first tandem there recently, and had a very pleasant, educational, and satisfying experience.