[CBBaron]

I am a regular cyclist (primarily commuter but also long recumbent rides and some MTB) but my wife only rides the occasional bike path. Now we also have a 2.5 yr old daughter who I would like to get involved.
I would like to spend more time cycling with my family but I think my wife feels she holds me back. We currently have a Burley trailer but I would like to get my daughter riding once shes big enough.
Another consideration is we are a large couple. I'm 6'2" and my wife is 5'9" and the total weight is ~500lb.
I doubt my wife is ever going to be up to doing multi-day tours but rides around the neighborhood and possibly single day 30-50 mile rides might be in the future.
So any suggestions???
I have looked at a Bike Friday Family Triple. The Bike Friday seems pretty reasonably priced and the middle position can accomadate a 36" stroker for my daughter. Also it breaks down for travel and can be converted to a double if only two of us will be riding. However they list a max 400lb weight and its a significant investment for something I'm not sure will work out.

Craig

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[merlinextraligh]

We have a Bike Friday Tandem. I'm 200lbs, and my wife 130lbs. At our weight, it definitely flexes more than a conventional tandem. I don't think I'd push the weight limit above 400lbs. I think your biggest issue is going to be wheel durability. Perhaps you might consider a tandem with mountain bike wheels. Everrything else being equal 26" wheels are stronger than 700c.

[CBBaron]

We have a Bike Friday Tandem. I'm 200lbs, and my wife 130lbs. At our weight, it definitely flexes more than a conventional tandem. I don't think I'd push the weight limit above 400lbs. I think your biggest issue is going to be wheel durability. Perhaps you might consider a tandem with mountain bike wheels. Everrything else being equal 26" wheels are stronger than 700c.
I was concerned that the Bike Friday might flex too much with its very low top tube but I wouldn't worry about the 20" wheels.
Craig

[metal_cowboy]

Have you thought about getting a "Tag along" type attachment for your daughter. I have seen many tandem families with this set up, it seems to work quite well. http://www.zabarskyfamily.com/web/hobbies_interest/cycling/images/Tandem_Tagalong_infront_of_house.JPG

[ElRey]

I think the frame of a BIke Friday is not teh best choice for you. Call a BRAND NAME Mfg and discuss your specific requriements. You don't need to buy fromthem, but you'll find out what requirements any frame should have frmo a real good asource. We're just spouting opinions here.... You're not looking for just any frame. You'll need something pretty strong. And you better talk about brakes.

[zonatandem]

See what's out there in the used tandem depatment before thinking/investing in a triple.
As mentioned, a tandem with a tag-along bike would be a better (and less expen$ive)option than a triple. While the Friday is a good tandem, you are a bit beyond pushing the limits of that particular frame design.