Originally Posted by
jethro00
Thanks for the replies.
The Co-Motion Periscope Scout looks like an option we should consider.
I see that the tandem shop in Birmingham carries Santana and Co-Motion.
Maybe we will be lucky enough that they keep a Smooth and a Periscope Scout on hand for testing.
Has anyone owned a Periscope Scout and used it primarily for 2 adults?
We rode the Periscope Torpedo for one year while waiting for our new custom tandem. The Periscope was fine but the radically sloping top tube was more suitable for a child than my wife, who's 5'5". The small rear triangle was harsh and made it mandatory to use Thudbuster suspension seat post. I suspect that the Co-Motion Mocha or Bluebird would provide a smoother ride.
Before you decide on 26", 650B, or 700C tires, look at the type of tires that are available for your terrain. I've used all three sizes and prefer 700C for better rolling resistance on rough pavement. There are also a lot of 700C gravel tires in 30mm or wider widths (eg. Compass Barlow). The 650B is ideal for rough dirt roads or serious off-road use. If you venture out-of-state, it's much easier to find faster (but robust) road tires like the Continental Four Seasons or Grand Prix in 700 x 28.