Embarking on Electric Tandem Bike riding is an exciting journey, blending the joy of cycling with shared experience. However, as with any partnership, successful electric tandem bike riding hinges on practice and, crucially, clear communication. Reflecting on our recent rides with our Gepida Thoris electric tandem bike, the importance of these elements has become strikingly clear.
Initially, we envisioned leisurely rides with helmet radios providing a soundtrack. Reality quickly adjusted this expectation. My wife, positioned as the stoker, aptly pointed out the necessity of prioritizing intercom communication over music. There was a moment, approaching an intersection, where my attempt to slow down was met with continued pedaling from the rear! From the stoker’s perspective, visibility is limited to the captain’s back, although she has noted a more elevated view of the surroundings.
One fundamental lesson learned is the captain’s responsibility to clearly signal the start of pedaling. A gradual and steady cadence initiation is essential. Without this communication, the stoker risks an ungraceful dismount attempt as their feet struggle to find the pedals. This synchronization is a work in progress for us, highlighting the learning curve inherent in tandem cycling. More practice is undoubtedly needed to achieve smooth and efficient teamwork on our electric tandem bike.
The Gepida Thoris, thankfully, has proven to be remarkably energy-efficient. Our rides, typically on flat terrain with gentle hills and occasional headwinds, primarily utilize “Tour” mode, with occasional boosts to “Sport.” “Turbo” mode remains unexplored, suggesting ample power reserves. The bike’s efficiency fuels thoughts of potentially unlocking its full potential beyond the 20 mph motor cutoff, a common consideration for electric bikes.
A simple yet impactful adjustment to our electric tandem bike setup involved swapping the handlebars. Moving the straight handlebars to the captain’s position and the swept-back bars to the stoker proved beneficial. The swept-back bars offer a more comfortable reach for my wife, and their slightly narrower profile seems to mitigate the impact of any movement from the stoker on the bike’s handling.
Ultimately, riding an electric tandem bike introduces a heightened sense of responsibility compared to solo cycling. Much like carrying a passenger on a motorcycle, the safety of both riders becomes paramount. This awareness can initially induce stress. However, with increased experience on our Thoris electric tandem bike, I anticipate a more relaxed and enjoyable riding experience for both of us. The journey of mastering the electric tandem bike is ongoing, and we eagerly anticipate the smoother rides ahead.
