Tandem novice: withcoaster brake???!!

[wroomwroomoops]

Tomorrow I am going to ride a tandem with a blind person. I have never ridden a tandem in my life, but I can find some info on Sheldon Brown's website. However, how about tandems with coaster brake? I guess it requires special technique - can anyone please clue me in? I am a bit worried.

[NewbieIATandem]

Don't have any experience with your type of situation, but I would say, "COMMUNICATE"

Also, as is always prudent in new situations, take it slow initially.

Maybe some others will have some more detailed hints.

[nocoins]

I ride a tandem with a coaster brake. When I am riding with someone, they are basically blind back there because they cant see over me. It really is all about the communication. I just say "pedal pedal pedal, coast coast coast, stop stop stop.... if its a "slow down" type of situation (coming up to a light that I am going to blow through) I just say "coast" and I use my front brake handbrake to slow us a bit. I ride this bike in Philly with my friends and use it to pick up inexperienced riders who are afraid to ride in the city. It is not too difficult, but yes, communication is the key to success in this situation!

[cornucopia72]

I would suggest that you familiarize yourself with the tandem first. You can ride it around the block and practice stopping and taking off by yourself. A blind stoker maybe be easier to ride with initially since I assume a blind stoker would not try to stir the rig from the back. If the stoker has ridden in the back of a motorcycle it would be a lot easier to turn since it is described as the same felling. Start at an empty parking lot and do not get out with traffic until you both feel comfortable on the tandem. Good luck! …it is a lot of fun!!