TAN-dum BIEK
Noun
A bicycle designed for two people to ride at the same time.
Example usage: We went for a ride on our tandem bike this morning.
Most used in: Europe, especially in the Netherlands.
Most used by: Cyclists who want to ride together.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 4/10
Also see: Tandem Bicycle, Tandem Cycle, Twofers, Tandem Rig,
What is a Tandem Bike?
A tandem bike is a bicycle designed for two people to ride together. The tandem bike has two sets of pedals, two sets of handlebars, and two saddles. The front rider is known as the captain, and the rear rider is known as the stoker. The captain steers the bike and controls the brakes, while the stoker assists in pedaling.
Tandem bikes are becoming increasingly popular among cyclists, as it allows two people to ride together and have conversations while doing so. While tandem bikes are usually heavier and more expensive than regular bikes, they can be a great way to explore nature with a friend or family member.
Tandem biking has been around since the late 19th century and is still a popular activity today. According to a survey by the National Bicycle Dealers Association, tandem bikes accounted for 10% of total bike sales in the United States in 2019. This number has been steadily increasing over the past few years, indicating that tandem biking is becoming more popular.
Whether you’re a cyclist looking for a unique way to explore the outdoors with a friend or family member, or simply looking for a fun way to stay active, a tandem bike can be a great choice. So give it a try and have some fun!
.The Fascinating Origin of the Term 'Tandem Bike'
The term 'tandem bike' (sometimes referred to as a 'bicycle built for two') has been in use since the late 19th century. It was first used in England to describe a bicycle with two sets of pedals, one in front of the other, and was used to describe the type of bike used by two people riding together.
The term 'tandem' itself was originally used to describe a carriage pulled by two horses harnessed one in front of the other. It was first recorded in English in 1887 and is derived from the Latin phrase 'tandem habere', meaning 'to hold in succession'. The term was later applied to bicycles as the two-person design was similar to the two-horse carriage.
The first 'tandem bike' was built in 1887 by two British inventors, James Starley and William Hillman. The bike was designed for two people to ride together and was called the 'Ariel Tandem' or 'Ordinaries Tandem'. This design was based on the 'ordinary' or 'penny-farthing' bike, which was the first type of bike with a large front wheel and a small back wheel.
Since then, the term 'tandem bike' has been used to describe any type of bicycle designed for two people to ride together. Today, tandem bikes are popular for recreational riding and competition, and come in a variety of styles and sizes.
