Twenty-seven years ago we bought our first tandem so that I COULD end the day tired when we were touring. Prior to that, on our half-bikes, I would take most of the gear and take naps at the top of some of the climbs. At day's end, I would feel like I hadn't even ridden and my wife was beat. Our first tour on the tandem was about 4000 miles and she ended every day feeling strong. I got my wish and ended every day knowing I had been riding.