Tandem IPS Retrofit Questions

[dwmckee]

I have a 2005 Raleigh Aluminum frame tandem (Coupe model which is much much nicer than their inexpensive steel frame tandems currently produced). My stoker is a 60 pound 7-year old with legs like well cooked spaghetti. My problem is when he gets tired I am pulling his legs along with his weight, so I am considering installing an IPS stoker crank so he can coast when he wants and I do not have to power his tired legs too. My questions are about installing an IPS stoker crank.

(1) Can I still run a triple chain ring stoker crank with the IPS?
(2) Will I get into chain alignment problems with the rear freewheel when ite IPS crank is installed for the stoker? (Does it shift the front rings out of their normal position?)
(3) What crank do I install for the captain position so I have a properly aligned sync gear on the right side?

Thanks. You guys are great and I am glad I found this forum!!

[zonatandem]

Why go to IP$ system?
Put a set of BMX or motorycle pegs on the lateral for kid stoker to put feet on when not pedaling. Definely cheaper/easier.

[stevetone]

...My problem is when he gets tired...

What length crank arms is he turning?

If they are the usual 170mm, they are probably too long for his leg length, leading to premature exhaustion (along with other bio-mechanical challenges). I had cranks shortened to 135mm for my 8-year-old stoker daughters (twins, one at a time :)), and they seem to be able to go on for ever! (much more stamina than their captain-dad).

Just a thought...

Steve

[cornucopia72]

They also sell crank shorteners that can be adjusted as the child grows.

[Murf524]

I used crank arm shorteners for my growing daughter. It was the type with 4 positions. We started on the smallest setting which gave as a virtual ~140 mm length. As she grew I kept moving the pedal "out". They came off the bike at some point when she grew 3 inches in one year.

[dwmckee]

Hi - Sorry for the delay in responding. We were tied up riding an MS-150 last week. My son has a lot of frequent stop/starts in his riding style and uses clipless pedals. We would go nuts if he unclipped and put his feet in highway pegs every time he wanted to rest. I could see this making sense for a more recreational rider though...

Thanks for the suggestion though.

[dwmckee]

Hi - Sorry for the delay in responding. We were tied up riding an MS-150 last week. Yes, I am using a pair of crank shorteners on the back and they work amazingly well. Brings his legs up so he can use the seat, and allows ys to rin at a more normal cadence.

Thanks,

Don

[dwmckee]

Hi - Sorry for the delay in responding. We were tied up riding an MS-150 last week. Yes, I am using a pair of crank shorteners on the back and they work amazingly well. Brings his legs up so he can use the seat, and allows ys to rin at a more normal cadence.

Thanks,

Don

[dwmckee]

We are using crank shorteners. Any experience installing a Stoker IPS system?

Thanks,

Don

[dwmckee]

Thanks. We are using crank shortenres and they are terriffic. Such a simple, effective solution. Do you have any experience installing an IPS system?

Thanks,

Don