Tandem Bikes Faster?

[WishYouWasMe]

I was wondering are tandem bikes faster? They usually weigh more than two single bikes put together....so wouldnt both riders still be using the same force as if they only had a single bike to push?

[TandemGeek]

You might want to peruse this recent thread:
http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=278526

[regomatic]

I was wondering are tandem bikes faster? They usually weigh more than two single bikes put together....so wouldnt both riders still be using the same force as if they only had a single bike to push?

The bikes are only as fast as the riders, and "faster" should be graded on a curve.

In my limited tandem experience, I'd make a very general statement like;

Tandems are half as fast uphill,
Tandems are twice as fast downhill.

Add them up in a couple of different ways and the math says that Tandems are either one and half or two and a half times the maximun amount of fun you can have on a single bike.

[WishYouWasMe]

The bikes are only as fast as the riders, and "faster" should be graded on a curve.

In my limited tandem experience, I'd make a very general statement like;

Tandems are half as fast uphill,
Tandems are twice as fast downhill.

Add them up in a couple of different ways and the math says that Tandems are either one and half or two and a half times the maximun amount of fun you can have on a single bike.

Based on that argument I would assume the most efficient tandem would be one joined horizontally. Reducing drag and weight since the center of mass would be in between the two riders. Im guessing the bikes would need stabilizer bars on the unconnected ends though.

[regomatic]

Based on that argument I would assume the most efficient tandem would be one joined horizontally.

I haven't done any studies and don't have a degree that would support any evidence of my argument other than the empirical "fun factor" based on unsolicited opinions of both current captain and stoker.

[regomatic]

Based on that argument I would assume the most efficient tandem would be one joined horizontally. Reducing drag and weight since the center of mass would be in between the two riders. Im guessing the bikes would need stabilizer bars on the unconnected ends though.

Going off on a tangent here, and following your logic, I'd venture a guess that tandem teams who get along laterally in line, are also very likely to get along vertically as well.

Just saying.

[Juha]

TandemGeek's right, this is being discussed in an earlier thread (http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=278526). Please continue there, this thread is now closed.

--Juha, a Forum Mod