5 Best Tandem Bikes – Fun and Easy Way to Get Around!

Tandem bikes are functional, fantastic, and fabulous machines. We reviewed the top tandem bikes so that you don’t have to.
By
John Watson
John Watson
Writer
John is an experienced cycling enthusiast and a great asset when it comes to writing skills. He's a Bachelor of Arts and a talented journalist. John is in charge of our blog read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Jessica Kingston
Jessica Kingston
Expert Consultant
Jessica is our expert consultant on all things connected to biking - gear, technique, you name it. Being a pro cyclist in the past, she knows exactly how things work in and read more
Last updated: August 11, 2023
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When was the last time you saw someone ride past your house on a tandem bike? Did you think to yourself, I need one of those! If you didn’t, you should have because tandem bikes are better than ever. With new features and better safety, tandem bikes are a modern machine with classic vibes. We reviewed the top models of tandem bikes and were blown away by how many varieties are available. From brake types to wheel size, tandem bikes are more diverse than ever before.

The best tandem bikes are made with quality materials. They have the customer in mind when creating the design and put ample time into creating their bicycles. We never knew there were so many varieties of tandem bikes on the market. The safety features of each bike, such as brake quality and materials used, are very important. That is why we checked out each of these things to give you an accurate review of how they hold up. Continue reading below for our in-depth look at tandem bicycles.

Quick Summary

  • "Perfect for Adult riders who want to enjoy a smooth ride in style. The front and rear linear-pull brakes provide a safe and secure ride for everyone."
  • Premium Pick: The Janizy Tandem Bike
    "Great bike for those on the go! The completely foldable design allows you to take your tandem bike anywhere. And with its third seat, never leave your kid at home again!"
  • "Wonderfully designed lightweight tandem bicycle with urban tires. Great for a smooth and comfortable ride. And easy to take anywhere."
  • "Excellent tandem bike with micro-shifters that provide fast and accurate gear changes."
  • Best For Children: The Angeles MyRider Tandem
    "This tandem bike is perfect for kids. It has a durable frame and a safe design, with enough room for both of your children."

Top 5 Tandem Bikes Reviewed in 2024

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6669 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.6
9.8
Features
  • Age range: adult
  • Wheel size: 26 inches
  • Speeds: 7
  • Suspension: rigid
  • Brakes: pull
  • Frame material: steel

The Kulana Lua Tandem Adult Beach Cruiser Bike is a steel-framed bicycle that is fit for a king and a queen. With its 26 inch wheels and seven speeds, you will have no problem cruising on this beautifully designed bike. You will truly feel like you are royalty.

For anyone who wants to ride a vintage-style tandem bike, this is the perfect choice for you. Its classic style takes you back and reminds you of something your grandparents would have used.

    What do we love it for?
  • We love the Kulana Lua Tandem Adult Beach Cruiser Bike, and it offers 7 speeds for a smooth and reliable ride. We love the bright orange steel frame with pineapple accents. It's completely made from steel, and the durability of this bike makes it well worth the money. No one needs to spend thousands on a quality bike because this one is less than $600. But the quality could fool anyone into thinking that it is worth much more.
    What were we disappointed with?
  • This tandem bike could be built smaller for shorter users. The minimum height requirement is 5’4”, so for anyone shorter than that, you may have problems riding the bike safely. The reviews also state that assembly can be tricky. If you aren’t handy, you may need to hire a professional or take your bike to a bike shop to get it put together. The extra cost will be worth any hassle of assembling it wrong.
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3366 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.2
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.5
9.6
2
Premium Pick

The Janizy Tandem Bike

Features
  • Age range: adult
  • Wheel size: 20 inches
  • Speeds: 7
  • Suspension: front
  • Brakes: disc
  • Frame material: aluminum, carbon steel

The Janizy tandem bike is a great bike for a small family. It has a captain seat, stroker seat, and a small back seat for a 3rd person or child. It not only looks great, but it functions great as well. It has 20-inch wheels, which are not too big or small for the average user.

This model offers the best build for travelers. It can be easily folded for easier transportation, and reassembling is a breeze. You can put it in the trunk of your car and be at a new destination in minutes.

    What stands out?
  • We loved the 3rd seat in the back of the bike. Having room for another person can eliminate the need for a portable child carrier hinged to the back of the bike. We highly recommend this bike for families who love to travel. We also loved the color choice for this bike, and it is bold and reflective, making it easy to be seen from a distance.
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • This bike could use a side mirror or rear mirror. The Janizy is hard to turn and could benefit from having a side or rearview for turning safely, especially if there is a child in the 3rd seat. We would improve the price of this option. For the cost of this tandem bike, it should offer a more superior product than its peers, but it does not. This bike would be a better value with a 30% reduction.
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8885 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.9
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.9
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.8
9.3
Features
  • Age range: adult
  • Wheel size: 26 inches
  • Speeds: 7
  • Suspension: rigid
  • Brakes: not specified
  • Frame material: steel

The Schwinn Twinn Classic Tandem Adult Beach Cruiser Bike is a sleek and solid bike choice. It offers seven speeds on a steel frame for a complete satisfactory ride. And its 26 inch wheels are great with its 2.1-inch tires.

The Schwinn Twinn is sporty and modern, and it is perfect for a new feeling on a classic ride. This bike is great for exercise and going the long haul. Its 26-inch wheels give you extra legroom if you’re tall and don’t want to feel restricted. And don’t forget the 2.1-inch tires that make each ride smooth.

    Why are we impressed?
  • We absolutely enjoyed the large alloy wheels and durable steel body. The wheels are perfect for fast-rolling with ease, and the durable steel body is designed with the rider's comfort in mind. No more worries about flimsy wheels or too many bumps, as these tires are ultra-durable. With multiple speed options and rigid suspension, this bike is great for any type of rider.
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • We would advise you to keep a solid eye on the brakes of this bike. Some users have reported that brakes are not sufficient and should be replaced before riding the bike. If you test your bicycle and feel the brakes aren’t stopping quickly or effectively, you may want to upgrade them. The Schwinn brand also provides a limited lifetime warranty which is convenient for any mishaps. Adding dual brakes may be a great alternator for this bike. We recommend that you look at this issue with a trusted professional before taking the bike out on the road.
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2919 people in the past 30 days
9.0
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.7
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.9
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.8
9.0
Features
  • Age range: adult
  • Wheel size: 26 inches
  • Speeds: 21
  • Suspension: rigid
  • Brakes: linear pull
  • Frame material: steel

The Pacific Dualie Adult Tandem Bike is a 21-speed force to be reckoned with. It has large 26-inch wheels perfect for a set of adults who want to ride around for hours comfortably. You won’t be disappointed with this tandem bike.

For anyone who can not operate a bike safely on their own, this bike can help you regain your independence. The back seat of this bike is as comfortable as the front seat and will allow you to feel the breeze in your hair and freedom in your spirit.

    Why are we impressed?
  • We can’t get over how smooth the braking is with the alloy linear-pull brakes on the front rider handlebars. We love the 21-gear micro-shifters, which give the bike precise and quick gear changes. And its lightweight design makes portability simple and easy. No more worries about lugging a heavy bike around since this one only weighs about 45 pounds. One person can easily hang this bike on your bike rack.
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • It could benefit from having a higher set of stroker handlebars. They sit quite low and would be better with a height adjustment. This is an easy replacement at any local bike shop. The rims on this bike could also be made with stronger materials, as they bend easier than other brands when taken over bumps or curbs.
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4826 people in the past 30 days
8.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.7
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.6
8.9
5
Best For Children

The Angeles MyRider Tandem

Features
  • Age range: 36 – 120 months
  • Wheel size: not specified
  • Speeds: not applicable
  • Suspension: rear
  • Brakes: not specified
  • Frame material: steel

The Angeles MyRider Tandem bike is a great bike to introduce your children to when they are young. Its three-wheel design allows your child to learn how to pedal before needing great balance or skill.

It is a great bike for children who want to imitate their parents riding their tandem bikes. Your child can pick up a friend and stroll around or play with their sibling in the yard. This bicycle has a great design that allows your child to create independence while also having someone tag along.

    What makes it stand out?
  • We love the tricycle design for this tandem bike. It is age-appropriate and can be used with ease by your children. The underlying tray is great for putting toys or snacks and has easy access. The bright yellow stands out in a crowd, so you won’t have to worry about not being able to spot your child at the park or playground. This is a great gift idea for any child’s birthday and will provide years of fun.
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • There are no major flaws or concerns with this tandem bike. The design is great, and the safety features are very thought out. It could be improved by adding more color choices for girls and boys to choose from. A small basket could also be added to the front for teddy bear storage. This bike could also benefit by adding a place to keep the back passenger's feet in place while in motion to eliminate any accidents.

Things to Consider

There are many new types of tandem bikes on the current market. You are no longer limited to one brand or style. The customization of tandem bikes makes no two brands of bikes exactly the same.
The best brands can come with a bigger price tag, but do the brand and price always matter? We know that Schwinn is the most well-known brand, but could a lesser-known brand deliver a quality bike? Continue reading to see our description and comparison of tandem bicycles, and we talk about important features, wheel size, frame materials, and much more.

What are tandem bikes?

Tandem bikes are a type of bicycle that is designed to have more than one passenger riding at a time. The first passenger sits in the front of the bike, while the second passenger sits in the seat behind them. Each rider has their own set of pedals and handlebars. The bicycle moves when the passengers work together to keep by pedaling at the same time. Tandem bikes have been around since the 1800s Trusted Source Tandem Bicycle - Kansapedia - Kansas Historical Society Bicycling has long been touted as excellent exercise. The earliest European cycles were valued as an alternate means of human locomotion, but it didn’t take new riders long to realize a gain in fitness. The bicycling craze spread across the Atlantic, exploding in popularity during the late 1880s. By the following decade, catalog retailers such as Montgomery Ward & Co. were selling adult bicycles for as low as $45, plus specialized clothing, tools, and even child’s seats. www.kshs.org . They were first introduced in Chicago by the American Bicycle Company.

Important Features

Tandem bikes are different from regular bicycles. For a bicycle to be considered tandem, it must have at least two seats. One seat is in the front with a set of handlebars and pedals, and one is behind the front, also often having its own set of handlebars and pedals. A tandem bike is meant for the passengers to be front and back, not from side to side. You want to be sure to choose a tandem bicycle that is sized right for you and your passenger. If the bike is too large, you may not be able to pedal correctly, which can cause an accident. On the other hand, if the bike is too small, it may cause poor posture or an inability to balance the bike.

Age range

5 Best Tandem Bikes - Fun and Easy Way to Get Around!
Tandem bike riders can vary in age range depending on the model. A few of the larger models can’t have a child as the captain because of the minimum height requirement, but the stroker may be a child if the child is big enough.

The stroker seat can sometimes also only accommodate an adult. Because most tandem bikes are best suited for adults, they created tandem bikes that are specifically made for children, like the Angels MyRider Tandem bicycle. Riders can be as young as 3 for this bike. With an adult tandem bike, you can be as old as you want to be as long as you can pedal.

Wheel size

Wheel sizes also vary when it comes to tandem bicycles. A bike for a child will have significantly smaller wheels. The average wheel size ranges between 20 to 26 inches. The 26-inch wheels are great for larger passengers, such as the ones on the Schwinn Twinn Classic Tandem Adult Beach Cruiser Bike. Bikes with 20-inch wheels are better for short adults or tall children. If you are over six feet, you may need a larger-sized wheel to better fit you comfortably. Try a 28 or 30-inch wheel if you are over 6 feet tall.

Suspension

A tandem bike can have rigid suspension or front suspension. Bikes with rigid suspension are great for off-road biking and long-haul trips. The rigid suspension allows your tandem bike to ride better on smooth terrain.

When a bike is said to have rigid suspension, it basically means it has none. Having no suspension is harder on your body and your bike when going over bumps.

The Pacific Dualie Adult Tandem Bike is a great example of a bike with rigid suspension. If you prefer a bike with front suspension, the Janizy Tandem Bike would be a great choice for you. A bike with front suspension will handle most terrain types with ease, including off-road and mountainous terrain.

Brakes

5 Best Tandem Bikes - Fun and Easy Way to Get Around!
Brakes are probably the most important feature of a bike. Without quality brakes, your tandem will be sure to crash.

Tandem bikes take longer to stop due to the weight of both passengers. So, with a tandem bike, you will want extra-durable breaks because the bike holds more weight than a single framed bike. You can have linear-pull brakes, disc brakes, or a combination of the two. The Kulana Lua Tandem Adult Beach Cruiser Bike offers both front and rear brakes perfect for stopping in time. If you have a vintage tandem bicycle, it may have drum brakes. Drum brakes are no longer manufactured, so you will only see them in older models. Any new bike bought will have either linear-pull brakes or disk brakes.

Speeds

Each tandem bike is made uniquely. The number of speeds they can go will depend on the brand. The Pacific Dualie Adult Tandem Bike has 21 speeds which are the most available from our list of bikes. The average is seven speeds from our list.

The number of speeds that you need on your bike will depend on where you plan on riding it. If you plan on going downhill, then you will want something with more speed.

Frame material

Frame materials on tandem bikes need to be durable and sturdy. You don’t want your frame to have any flex to it. These bikes hold double the weight of a single-person bike since there are two riders. Some of the best bikes are made from steel. At the same time, other materials may be used, such as aluminum, carbon fiber, or titanium. The Janizy Tandem Bike uses a combination of both steel and aluminum, which makes it a very durable and reliable built bike.

FAQ

How to ride a tandem bike?

Have you ever wanted to know how to ride a tandem bike? A tandem bike is a little more difficult to ride than a regular bike, and it consists of a captain in the front and a stroker in the back. Each rider will have a different job. The captain will be in charge of the handlebars and steering, and this rider should be the bigger or stronger of the two riders. The smaller rider should be in the back. The stroker will help provide power and force to the pedals but will have no control over stealing the bike. The captain and the stroker must work together to pedal the bicycle simultaneously once in motion. To get the bike in motion, the captain will have to keep the front of the bike stable by keeping a steady grip on the handlebars. Both riders will use their legs to apply force on the pedals and continue pedaling until they wish to stop. Once you are ready to stop, the brakes will need to be applied.

What kind of roads can you ride on tandem bikes?

Not all tandem bikes are created the same. There are tandem bikes designed for different things. Tandem bicycles that are built for cruising and have a single-speed are better suited for smooth surfaces, like paved roads, sidewalks, or bike trails. Limited hills and uneven terrain. Most tandem bikes will fall into this category. Tandem bicycles that have front wheels suspension and multiple gears can be used off-road on gravel, brick roads, and dirt. Though off-road terrain is not highly recommended for long distances because bumps in the road can throw off the simultaneous pedal motion needed to keep the bicycle going. If you are going to ride on rugged terrain, be sure to be an experienced tandem bike rider with a bike made specifically for bumps and curbs.

How to store a tandem bike?

Storing your tandem bike will require more space than a single bike, but it takes less space than two bikes. The best way to store your tandem bike is in a dry and covered area. You can’t leave your bicycle in the rain or snow because its steel or aluminum frame can rust. Ideally, a shed or garage is the best place to store your tandem bike. You can keep it on the floor for easier access if you are a daily user. Or use a bike rack to hang it up and keep it out of the way if you only use it occasionally. If you have no choice but to keep your bike outside, use a durable tarp to cover it. Be sure that no water or moisture can seep through and tie it down with rope.

How to clean a tandem bike?

Cleaning your tandem bike should be done anytime it gets dirty or dusty. A deep clean at least once a year is recommended. You can use mild soap and water to scrub down the metal frame and tires. Be sure to get any build-up or gunk off of every crevice. Always rinse all the soap off of the bike. Once your bike is dirt-free and rinsed, allow it to air dry before putting it away. Putting your bike away completely dry will help prevent it from rusting. As preventative maintenance, you should clean your chains with a dry cloth after each use. This helps preserve the life of your bike. Never use bleach-based cleaners to clean your bike, it will strip the metal.

Can you ride a tandem bike with a child?

Tandem bikes have weight and height requirements. If you want to ride your tandem bike with a child, you may not be able to. Most standard tandem bikes have a minimum height requirement for the captain of at least 60-65 inches. The strokers minimum height is typically not too far less than that. If you are looking to ride a tandem bike with your child, you will want the U-shaped tandem bike style. The captain seat is fit for an adult, while the back seat is smaller for a child. The U-shaped design is great for family riding.

Always remember to have all passengers wear a helmet when riding your bike, especially with children. Head injuries are the number one killer in bike accidents, according to helmets.org Trusted Source Helmets and Carriers for Children Although some safety advocates recommend against mounting child seats on a bicycle, several states require a helmet on the child if you do. Helmets for children transported in child seats or trailers should never be the “aero” shape, since the tail hits the back of the seat and forces the child’s head downward. You may have to put a cushion behind the child’s back to prevent this. If a child dozes in a seat or trailer their head may loll and bounce around, a situation pediatricians say is not good, so either provide a cushion on the sides or some other means to prevent this or be prepared to stop whenever the child gets sleepy. www.helmets.org . It is always best to be safe.

Our verdict

With so many bicycles to choose from, it was hard to pick a winner. We loved the Janizy Tandem Bike, making it our top-rated tandem bike on our list. The design of this bike is unlike any other. It is perfect for anyone who loves to take their bike out of the busy city and explore the great outdoors. Its ability to be folded and put into your car to be taken anywhere is a plus. Just fold it and pop it into your trunk. With the spare seat on the back, you can take your little one with you wherever you go. No longer needing a babysitter each time you and your partner want to go for a ride. Making this model of tandem bike perfect for families.

The best tandem bike for you is the one that fits your needs. If you love a classic style of tandem bike, the Kulana Lua Tandem Adult Beach Cruiser Bike is perfect for you. We loved the beachy design and could not resist its vintage feel. It will not disappoint.

If you need the best tandem bike for kids, look no further because the Angeles MyRider Tandem bike was created specifically for children. It is functional and safe for children ages 3 to 9. It has no protruding hardware making it a safe choice for your kids. We love the storage underneath for all the teddy bears and snacks to be stored while in motion, and we are sure your kids will love it too.

If you want the most known brand of bike, the Schwinn Twinn Classic Tandem Adult Beach Cruiser Bike wins hands down. It has a lower-than-expected price tag with a high-quality feel. It has a great design and a comfortable ride for all who want to enjoy it.

References

1.
Tandem Bicycle - Kansapedia - Kansas Historical Society
Bicycling has long been touted as excellent exercise. The earliest European cycles were valued as an alternate means of human locomotion, but it didn’t take new riders long to realize a gain in fitness. The bicycling craze spread across the Atlantic, exploding in popularity during the late 1880s. By the following decade, catalog retailers such as Montgomery Ward & Co. were selling adult bicycles for as low as $45, plus specialized clothing, tools, and even child’s seats.
2.
Helmets and Carriers for Children
Although some safety advocates recommend against mounting child seats on a bicycle, several states require a helmet on the child if you do. Helmets for children transported in child seats or trailers should never be the “aero" shape, since the tail hits the back of the seat and forces the child’s head downward. You may have to put a cushion behind the child’s back to prevent this. If a child dozes in a seat or trailer their head may loll and bounce around, a situation pediatricians say is not good, so either provide a cushion on the sides or some other means to prevent this or be prepared to stop whenever the child gets sleepy.
9,8
Total Score
The Kulana Lua Tandem Adult Beach Cruiser Bike - Editor’s Choice
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