Just my observations regarding effects on handling of the C’dale tandem with different fork geometries that may be relevant to this trend. I purchased the carbon fork offered at Chuchsbikes.com and installed it on my C’dale. The ride was significantly different than with the stock fork. To me the bike felt twitchy at slow speeds and was more sensitive to my stoker’s movements. However, at high speed and on turns, the bike felt very stable. This is definitely the result of the fork being about 20mm shorter than the stock fork and having less rake (43 mm). The change in handling is not bad is just something one needs to get used to. We used this fork for a quite a while without any problems. I liked the handling better than with the stock fork as it definitely felt more like my single bike.

Lately I came across a good deal on a Reynolds Carbon Cyclocross fork. I did some research and found that it was approved for tandem use and it was about ½ lb lighter than the one I was using. After installing this fork (395mm length and 45mm rake) the handling changed slightly. The bike is now a little less sensitive to the stoker’s movements. It still handles great. However, under hard braking, I see a bit of deflection on the fork but it does not seem to affect handling.

My C’dale is now right at 36 pounds including pedals, bottle cages, etc. I do not think that I could drop the weight anymore without spending big money or using parts that may not be robust. How heavy are most tandem bikes? I do not know but at 36 lbs I guess mine is about average for a decent tandem. I will post a picture of my tandem so that you guys can advice me as to how to make it better.

Also, does any one else have used the Reynolds cross fork? I am interested on your opinions.

Great forum, GREAT people and sound advice! Thanks guys.