Tandem Cycling - Timing Ring Question

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andr0id
04-25-09, 09:35 PM
Most tandems I've seen have the timing ring on the outside of the spider, but I just notice that on WheresWaldo's new FSA cranks the timing rings are on the inside of the spider.

Is there any reason to prefer one position over the other?

TandemGeek
04-26-09, 07:35 AM
Is there any reason to prefer one position over the other?

Probably on par with the decision to position your eccentric with the bottom bracket high vs. low.

In theory, Keeping the rings as close as possible to the bottom brackets as the rear stay allows will reduce the bending forces on the boom tube between the captain and stoker cranks. I say in theory only because most contemporary, well-designed tandems don't deflect under pedal forces all that much so it may not be as important today as it was years ago.

Beyond that, it puts a little distance between your left leg and the chain which might keep you from getting a chain tattoo.