First, thanks for the additional advice everyone.

My wife and I enjoyed an afternoon at Mel's place. We test rode a Co-Motion Premiera (L/S) and Speedster (L) as well as a Cannondale Road Tandem 2 (X/M). These tandems fit within our budget and had the features that we wanted.

First was the Speedster. We had no trouble getting under way and the ride was very comfortable. We we're hooked right away. This was the bike we were really interested in however the size was not ideal. My wife fit fine but there would be no room for a suspension seatpost.

Next we took out the Premiera. It was a large/small size and what we expected we would need. My wife appreciated the extra standover. The ride was similar to the Speedster but we liked the better component set of the Speedster.

We then took out the Cannondale and immediately noticed the effect of the aluminum: road buzz. The frame was nice and stiff but we worried over a long ride it might be tiring.

In the end we settled on a Speedster. We stuck with the stock fork, rim brakes and the drum brake in back. Mel is going to set up the drum with a MTB brake handle for the stoker. We are also getting 40 spoke wheels front and back, thud-buster seatpost for the stoker and the flight deck computer.

We should have the bike in 4-5 weeks and are really looking forward to a great season!

Thanks,
Dave