Tandem Cycling - Older Schwinn Tandems

Over the last 4 weeks, there have been 3 separate ads in the local classifieds for old Schwinn tandems, or, as the ads so quaintly put it "bicycle(s) built for two". Prices ranged from $260-$290. One said needs work, the other 2 said good condition. Is it worthwhile getting something like this for tooling around? My wife, not a cyclist, is not interested, but I think it would be fun. Who knows? We might really enjoy it and get a real tandem some day.
Any thoughts on older bikes and, specifically this price range, which seemed pretty cheap to me.
Regards,
Raymond

Hey, old post but I was searching the archives. In my much younger days I rode around constantly on either a sidehack or a tandem. I loved picking up hitchikers, or even offering pedestrians a ride. I did find most to be reluctant to get on the hack.

Thanks for the note! Since I posted that, long ago, I don't think there has been a single tandem advertised! After my fall last week I think there is even less chance of getting my wife on the same bike with me. :D

Those old Schwinn's were way over priced anyway.

I had a great old schwinn tandem that had the curved front 3 top tube design like a cruiser. Damn I wish I still had that. Haven't seen any on ebay like that. Trouble with the one I had was that it was mild steal and the rear bent towards the drive side. Bring a frame alingment checker tool with you if you can.

We have a 1970 Schwinn Twinn in wonderful vintage condition. The bike is a single speed with coaster brake and front hand brake. There is a fun factor to these machines that others don't have. They attract conversation. People will stop to talk about them and reminisce about their old bikes. Passing cars frequently beep and people wave and yell 'Cool!' out their windows. It takes little coaxing to get others to ride this bike, while our other off road tandem seems to intimidate new riders. With the Twinn you just jump on and go. No training is needed. The old Twinns are heavy. They are perfect for family fun rides or cruising the Rails-to-Trails. Don't buy it if you are looking for a machine to hammer with the local cycling group or ride steep hills. The wheels don't have quick releases so keep that in consideration if you plan to transport the bike. In PA the Twinn fit legally across the back of our suv. -


Regarding the price: We paid $250 and it was quite worth it. The bike was completely rebuilt by the LBS before our purchase. The tires and front brake were new. We added quick releases to the seats, a removable basket, a bell, and water bottle cages.

Take one for a test ride or better yet watch someone ride this bike. You'll see the smiles.

i have a 1970 schwinn twinn in wonderful condition. it is all original although i would be looking to part with it. if you are interested please email me an offer at librider09@hotmail.com thanks

i also forgot to add it is green. it has two-tone white and green seats with an S. it has a bendix 2 speed shifter and remember everything is original. im located in michigan and i also could email pics