Originally Posted by SJX426

It was a shakedown run. We have been doing the Ft Hunt loop too, which is 1.1 miles around. She is doing really well. The saddle height and bar placement have been the focus. Also, I swapped the 6 spd for a 7 spd with a corresponding switch from index to friction on the barcon. The latter didn't work out so is switched back to the 6 speed and index for this ride. The challenge was the RD adjustment. We didn't have any issues with the 7 spd but with the 6, it was not adjusted right and threw the chain against the spokes a couple of times. I finally got that worked out. The rest of the ride was great! I need to look at replacing the inner ring with a smaller tooth count to spread the options out. The 7 spd has a higher tooth count on the big cog. May swap them out too. May swap the barcons to the standard Suntour friction only ones to use the 7spd.

Hills were a challenge, especially the ones up from bridge. They are steep for being this young on the tandem. My wife is not in the same condition I am but did very well. I am proud of her performance and ability to do the stoker stuff! She described some of the better parts as "elation!" We didn't walk up any hills! I am surprised at the speed and momentum a tandem has. We used the drag brake a couple of times. She doesn't like to go over 30.