Tandem Bike rack

[RaceChick]

Can anyone advise me on a tandem bicycle rack?

 

Are they only roof mounted or do you get one that

 

mounts on the back of your car? Also where can I buy one at

 

an affordable price? Maybe even secondhand.

[Azonic]

I put my tandem on a regular HoldFast rack which mounts at the back, just take one, or both wheels off and you're pretty much at the same "length" as a single bike.

[RaceChick]

Thanx will try it. Is it legal to drive like this?

[Aedon]

Not if your bike doesnt block the number plate.

If it does you may have to get one made which is mounted outside of the bike.

[Azonic]

RaceChick, I believe its legal. I got a fine once because the towbar bracket blocked the number plate, got the fine squashed, and have never got another fine. I'm attributing it to the traffic department caring less and less. Oh well, good for me.

[RaceChick]

THANX!!

[mdk555]

I put my tandem on a regular HoldFast rack which mounts at the back' date=' just take one, or both wheels off and you're pretty much at the same "length" as a single bike. [/quote'] I have been transporting mine with the wheels on and the overlap is only about 40cm. Been through one road block and have had lots of T-Cops go past me without stopping me.

[Guest Big H]

I used various carriers with my tandems and have travelled many thousands of kilometres with them. Some important tips:-

Secure the tandem with the normal clamps on the carrier but also use at least six bungee cord (those with the hooks on both ends). The bungee cords act as shock absorbers and also stops the tandem from swaying.

Stop frequently to ensure that the tandem is still securely mounted.

Ensure that your lights and number plate are not obscured. It is against the law.

Try to invest in a custom made trailer carrier. Much neater and easier and you will also have enough space to pack all the kit and tools you need. Incliding a cooler box with all the recovery drink (and beer) you may need.

See my photos included.

Our tandem on a Holdfast carrier before it was resprayed. Note the Bungee cords.

 

 

The custom made carrier I made myself. Tandem now el rapido and we are on the way to the Kremetart. Space for two half bikes as well.

 

 

Our MTB Tandem on the Geoff Bike Carrier (much better and stronger than Holdfast) in Mozambique. Unfortunately the only fotie I have got. I made a small number plate myself in the black and white style for Mozambique. We travelled from Inchope to South Africa many times like this and our longest trip was the Argus in 2006 when we did a 7500km round trip with the Tandem in the carrier. We nicknamed the tandem "Visum" When they wanted us to unpack at border posts they were so intrigued by the tandem that they started talking abouth the bike and eventually let us go!!!!!!!

[TheLegend]

 

 

 

Ensure that your lights and number plate are not obscured. It is against the law.

 

 

Our tandem on a Holdfast carrier before it was resprayed. Note the Bungee cords.

 

 

note the unobscured number plate and lights!

 

[mdk555]

 

Our tandem on a Holdfast carrier before it was resprayed. Note the Bungee cords.

 

Big H - have you lost some weight?

[RaceChick]

THANX Big H for the pics it helps a lot.

[Guest Big H]

Ensure that your lights and number plate are not obscured. It is against the law.

Our tandem on a Holdfast carrier before it was resprayed. Note the Bungee cords.

 

note the unobscured number plate and lights!

 

This was in the old times before the cops became vultures. If you look closely you will note that both lights are obscured by SPOKES and that the number plate if viewed form behind and parralax is not involved (too much for you to understand already methinks) is visible.

 

MDK the photo above was in the old days when I was still young, handsome and thin. I am only handsome now!!!!!!!

 

We do however have a contingency plan and are training with the MOUNTAINBIKE TANDEM to attempt "the impossible" in maybe 2010 but definitely in 2011. The "year of the hungry tiger" has started and training programmes are being reviewed and we are really full of spirit on this one. More will be divulged as time progresses. 

[TheLegend]

yes, and soldered spokes make your wheels stronger

[GreyOwl3.0]

Just chop the bike in half and weld some hinges onto it...problem solved!!

[Guest Big H]

yes' date=' and soldered spokes make your wheels stronger [/quote']

 

Just comment on the balancing of the wheels as well and you will have to pack your bombshelter kit and run for cover as we will have a general JB alert!!!!!!!! teee heeeeeee!!!!!!!!

[TheLegend]

geez man, you have issues!