We all know tandems don't sell like they used to.

The co-op takes tandems reluctantly because they take so so much space vs the market. Any given time we have 3 or 4 that will sit for a min of 8 months. Recently we took in a Specialized Tandem with a full spare set of Specialized "flag" cranks. Everybody wants the cranks until I explain they won't work (reverse threaded) on their Allez.

When it first came in, I sent Jim an email on the tandem thinking he might want it back.

With front and rear Phil disc brakes, and no drillings to add rim brakes, we could not properly sell it to be ridden and put ourselves in a potential liability situation.

Jim answered back that he built several bikes for Ray Youngberg, but couldn't find the build sheet.

Ray's bike donations came with a scrapbook of biking exploits, tours, races, press clipping including a ride from Salem to Salt Lake City.


After advertising the bike both here and CR, an east-coaster contacted me about purchasing it. He was aware the dangers of the brakes and I got the impression it would be displayed, not ridden.

A very small price was agreed upon, considering the rarity of this brown beast.

He drove out from the east coast (3 days!!) and was coming down to Salem to pick it up when he called to say he was at Bob's in Northbend, and could I deliver it up there.

Like a fool, I agreed to drive 5 hours each way. Had to find a hotel for the night. (lesson learned: always arrange your delivery fee up front). He didn't even buy me a beer.

But, I got some wonderful time in with Bob and his lovely wife Diane plus a private tour of his indoor shop. All the tools. All the toys. Trip wasn't wasted.

Somehow the bike fit inside his older Honda Accord sedan with the frame entering the trunk and the rear seats folded flat. I never would have guessed.

Anyway, thats what happened to the tandem.


Ray Youngberg also ordered up from Jim a size 49 frame for his young son. Jim says it was built by DiNucci That ended up in Portland and I see it on some Pedalpalooza rides.