Tandem Cycling - Which one?

I know this topic comes up alot, but i'm going to throw in another thread. I am looking at two tandems, a 2007 raleigh companion or a 93 cannondale. My wife is trying to get into cycling and we really enjoyed the rental tandem we used.
The cannondale is:
Tandem Cannondale mountain bike with beefy pepperoni aluminum fork and 26" road slicks.
Size is large/20" up front and medium/17" in rear (stoker) (these are MTB sizes, I would equate it to a 56 or 58 cm up front, road). LX front derailleur
XT Rear derailleur
XT rear hub
Grip shifters
8 speed rear cassette, triple cog up front.
XT V-Brakes Extra brake pads included.
Sun Rims straight and in excellent condition.
26" Road Slicks with Little Wear

The price is about the same for both bikes. My wife and I are going to go test ride both of them this weekend, and my decision will be mostly based on that. But in the way of comparison, I know that Cannondale is a respectable brand, I don't know how much that bike was new but I'm expecting it was worth alot more than the Raleigh. Will the old-better bike be better than the new-cheaper bike? The price for both bikes is $550.
Thanks for your help!

Assuming the size is right and that it's in excellent condition I'd go for the Cannondale.

I've had the opportunity to test ride tandems in different price ranges one immediately after the other. Know what? The frames really do make a big difference. You can upgrade the components on the Cannondale if you choose. The Raleigh frame, on the other hand, is as good as it's ever going to be.

If it fits and it is in reasonable condition...The C'dale for sure.

Bill J

Providing it's a proper fit, would opt for the C'dale without hesitation.

I'd vote for the Cannondale also.

The caveat I would put on the purchase is that you should not get into upgrading the drivetrain and other components. You'd be better off buying something equipped as you like. If you decide what features you would like to have on a tandem that this one does not have, sell the Cannondale and buy a tandem that better matches what you would like.

Another vote for the Cdale.


Even if this Cdale doesn't work out for you, I would pass on the Raliegh, if your planned use is more extensive than occassional, short, casual rides.

I'm hoping the cannondale is a good fit. Our price range is right where these are, so I wasn't expecting too much out of it, although I do hope to ride for a while.

Thanks for your input!