3D Ideas 750: More tandem facts
Claire writes: ‘Since we came up with STOKeRS as an acronym for a great way to start a conversation, it was only a matter of days before we also learned that this is the name for the person on the back of a tandem.  And there is plenty of learning for us to apply to a coaching style from conversations from tandem riders.
Philip says:
“The Stoker  The rear rider is commonly known as the “stoker… The rear rider is not a “passenger”, but is an equal participant. The stoker has two main responsibilities: 
  • The stoker serves mainly as a motor. Since the stoker is not called upon to control the bike, this rider should be able to actually generate more power than the same rider would on a single bike. Depending on the strength and endurance of the stoker, this may take the form of a steady output or may be held in reserve. If the stoker is acting as a “reserve,” it is OK to take it easy for general cruising, so long as the stoker can help out with a burst of power for the climbs. Since starting up on a tandem is a bit trickier than on a single, the stoker should apply as much smooth power as possible when starting up, to get the bike up to manoeuvring speed quickly. 
  • The stoker’s other major responsibility is a negative one: The stoker must not attempt to steer! Unpredictable weight shifts on the part of the stoker can make the captain’s job much harder, and can lead to crashes, in extreme cases. The stoker should keep in line with the centreline of the bicycle, and lean with it as it leans through corners. A stoker must shift position on the saddle, or adjust a toe strap, or take a drink without disturbing the equilibrium of the bicycle. These activities should not be attempted at all while the captain is dealing with tricky traffic situations or narrow spaces. The stoker can also do a bit of back rubbing now and then, as well as taking photographs, singing encouraging songs, reading maps, etc. “
Useful?”
© 2016 3D Coaching Ltd
May be distributed freely.  Please retain contact details: www.3dcoaching.com and send a copy/ link to info@3dcoaching.com  Register here to receive our blog posts every Monday by email

Latest Posts