Originally Posted by mtnbke

I'm 375lbs by myself on my single, and if I come off a descent, like Colorado National Monument, I'll blow tubes every time from the heat buildup in the rims. Sometimes I make it all the way to the bottom and flat in the straightaway by the ticket booth if I'm feeling really daring and stay off the brakes as much as I can. Other times I've flatted on corners and scared myself silly.

There is a reason for mounting that boat anchor the Arai drum brake on a tandem. Its still the safest, best way to convert forward momentum into heat. I wouldn't ride a tandem that only had disc brakes on it if you paid me.

I'd bet that your tubes blew out from the heat of the rims. Next time it happens touch the rim. You'll burn yourself most likely.