Bicycle for two - Tandem bikes

Tandem bicycles are cycles that have two seats and are also known as bicycle for two. They date back to the late 1800s but are less common nowadays than they were 10 years ago. It's said that the tandem bicycle is still very popular in the US where most couples are seen out and about on them regularly. A standard bike for two can cost from £300 so it's not surprising why many people in the UK don't own one.

Benefits of the tandem

With two seats on the frame, two sets of pedals and two handlebars, this unique bicycle allows 2 persons to ride at the same time and it offers the following advantages:

• bonding between partners, friends or parent and child - this is because a certain level of trust is required between the two persons involved to achieve a pleasant ride
• ability to cycle at high speeds due to the power of 2
• sharing the pleasure of cycling with someone else
• parents sharing with their kids can cycle at an adult level, thus going faster and further than it would have been possible with two different bicycles

What's involved

The captain The person in the front seat is called the captain. He is the one in control of the bicycle and will therefore do the balancing, steering and braking. Since the rider at the back does not see the road ahead, the captain will have to communicate any bumps or holes in the road so the person at the back can prepare for them.

The stoker The person in the back seat is called the stoker. His main duty is to provide more power to the cycling but he can also help by reading maps, singing and conversing with the captain or taking pictures during the ride.

Bicycle for two

As well as couples, many parents and child have been seen on a bicycle for two here in the UK. You can get bicycles for two made with the second seat specifically designed for a child. It helps if both people on the bicycle are similar weight as it will make manoeuvring easier and less stressful.

Where to buy

The market for tandem bikes is very small compared to single bikes so there aren't that many manufacturers. The prices are also relatively high compared to a normal one seat bicycle. The best way to find a tandem bike is to search the internet as you will find a better deal. It might be worth checking local bike shops but chances are they won't stock them but they might know a supplier and get one ordered in for you. The prices start from £300 but for a better quality bike expect to pay around £700 but if you won't use it that much then it's probably better to go for a cheaper one until you build up your confidence.

Some places to try:

• JD Tandems
• Ebay

Bicycles for two can also be very romantic and let you get in shape together. You could take the bike round your local neighbourhood to enjoy some fresh air or go to the park for a romantic bike ride. You don't really need a reason to stay healthy as you can still enjoy the bicycle for two for years to come. It's advisable to have a child properly fitted if you choose to have a child on the rear seat; children get bored easily so by having a bike that not many people have, it will keep them entertained (for a while at least).