2.2.4 Cycling |
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There are no adaptations required for tandem cycling, other than having a sighted pilot. However, there are a few suggestions for
cyclists who have never been on a tandem bicycle. First, communication is crucial between the two riders, especially when learning to ride as a team. It is preferred that the pilot already have experience with the tandem, either from previous rides with experienced stokers, or at least having ridden it for some time alone. This will increase a pilot's familiarity with the different handling characteristics of the bicycle's longer wheelbase. When mounting the tandem, the pilot should hold both brakes and sit on the top tube of the bicycle with his/her legs further apart for a stable stance and to allow for clearance of the pedals, which will at first be controlled by the new stoker as he/she boards the bike. Once the stoker is in both pedals, he/she will inform the pilot by saying, "ready", the pilot will then tell the stoker the desired position of the pedal for starting. When the pilot is ready, he will tell the stoker to start pedaling and when pedaling needs to stop for the pilot to get into the other pedal. This seems complicated at first reading, but will soon become natural with regular rides on the bike. Again, with turning the bike, the pilot needs to communicate to the new stoker what is going to happen. The first few rides should be gentle for instruction and to allow the new stoker to get used to the movement of the bicycle. If the new stoker simply keeps his/her weight centered over the frame of the bike, this will make the pilot's job much easier. This also will form a good foundation to build on as skills and speed increase. Eventually, the stoker will learn to follow the bike's lead. A good stoker will become so smooth that the pilot will sometimes forget that he/she is on a tandem. When stopping the tandem, the pilot should be expected to stop the bike and hold it up while the stoker leans slightly in the opposite direction to help balance the bicycle. When restarting, the stoker will learn to rearrange the pedals to the pilot's preferred starting position. If the stoker is expected to dismount the tandem, the pilot will communicate this and assume the position explained above. The pilot can then dismount the bike only when the stoker has informed the pilot that he/she is clear. Otherwise, the pilot can hold his/her seat and swing a leg over the front of the tandem to avoid kicking the stoker. As two riders learn to ride as a team, they will become familiar with communicating through the timing chain between them. Also, finer skills such as pedaling with a powerful, circular stroke and a smooth upper body will be developed with coaching from the experienced pilot. Riding a tandem will open many new doors for a blind or visually impaired rider, particularly for those who have previously ridden a single bike, either competitively or recreationally. The pilot also gains a great deal of satisfaction from sharing his/her passion for cycling and watching the stoker grow as a skilled cyclist and athlete. Then, as a team, the two riders can enjoy the rewards of tandem cycling, whether they are riding recreationally or competing against other qualified teams from all over the nation and even the world! |