The Back to Back Tandem

The Back to Back Tandem

 The modular bike is designed to be built up as a front wheel drive recumbent. So 2 of these could be built up as a back to back, all wheel drive tandem. Why not? I had been thinking about this for a while, and Damian Harkin's article in January 2005 Huff (the OzHPV magazine) provided much useful information on how to build it. Damian is the proud owner of a back-to back "flevobike rug-aan-rug" (back to back) tandem and much of my confidence in front-wheel drive bikes was inspired by this wonderful machine.

A small, rigid frame was made. The frame has a 15 degree bend in the middle so the slope of the top tubes stay the same as on the single bike. The first test rides with all the stoker’s gear added went surprisingly well and I am lucky to have a fearless and shameless stoker (my son Ewan) to test it with. It all needs a lot of work and refinement but I am very happy with the initial results. (Note that on this bike, the stoker pedals backwards.) 

What is it used for?

If you consider yourself conspicuous on a normal bike, riding this makes you super - conspicuous, so you can't be shy. The back to back tandem configuration is aerodynamic, and the stoker and captain can talk easily. Best for fast day rides where you don't have to carry much luggage. Note that the turning circle is quite large.

What's needed to make it?

2 frame units, 2 recumbent kits and a small auxiliary frame. Long brake cable to rear brake. Helps if you are an extrovert.

What can be added?

To make the bike more aerodynamic and provide some storage space, the space between the riders can be "filled in with" a corflute / plastic flute board box.

What else can I buy that's like it?

There are a handful of makers of this type of bike around the world. Most seem to be outrageously expensive, starting at 5000 Euros.

Ace http://ligfiets.net/fietsen/type.php3?id=105

Ostrad : http://www.ostrad.de/janus.html

Mic-Wic http://www.encycleopedia.com/index.cfm?pid=23&edID=303&type=Product

Home Made http://www.outsideconnection.com/gallant/hpv/backToBack/