The best tandem bicycles for couples on the move
If you’re looking for a fun, unique way to get outside and get active with your significant other, here’s something you might not have thought about – a tandem bike. With the right tandem bike, or bicycle-built-for-two, you and your love can explore trails, ride down the boardwalk at the beach, or simply take a leisurely trip into town to pick up some takeout for a picnic and an evening ride at the park.
Not only will you explore together, committing to a bike like this means you’ll have to learn how to work together to get to where you want to go. A tandem bike can help couples communicate and demonstrate their trust for each other while working on a common goal. Riding one can really put a relationship to the test because you have to move in unison, the driver has to trust the person in back enough to know that they’ll really help pedal the thing, and whoever is in the back needs to trust the driver to make the right decisions. On the bright side, you’ll know exactly where your partner is – no need for GPS tracking!
If you’re interested in getting a tandem bike for you and your sweetie, check out the best tandem bikes for couples.
1. Pacific dualie tandem bicycle (Link)
The Pacific Dualie Tandem Bicycle is really lightweight – only 59 pounds! That’s because it has an effective alloy pull brake safety system, a reliable alloy crank, and dependable and strong alloy wheels. Most of what it’s made of is light and great for a bicycle.
Although it’s light, the steel mountain frame is tough, durable, and will last a long time. The saddles are sporty but can be uncomfortable on long rides. It has a durable 21-speed Shimano drivetrain and a rear Shimano derailleur. Shifting gears is a cinch with pro twist shifters. The 26 inch tires are a great size for gripping the road and are generally a really good fit for the size of this bike. The front frame is 18 inches tall and the rear is 16 inches so it’s not excessively tall and will be easy for you and your spouse to get off and on easily.
You might have to make some adjustments and upgrades if you intend to ride this bike long distances or use it for more than just casual rides around the neighborhood. You’ll find this is true with most of the bikes we reviewed. Add some better brakes pads, a more comfortable seat, and better tires and you might even be able to take this on some trails. As it is, though, it’s a great bike for casual use.
2. Kent dual drive tandem comfort bike (Link)
The steel frame of this Kent Dual Drive Tandem Comfort Bike has a cool cruiser-style design that makes it look a little retro and all the more fun to take out on trips. The V brakes have a modern linear pull system that’s very reliable. This is a durable, well designed bike that will stand up to a lot of wear and tear. That said, because it’s a moderately priced option, you may be able to find smoother rides elsewhere. But if you’re looking for a really basic tandem bike that you can tweak a bit, this is it.
This Shimani Twist Shifting 21 speed tandem bike has 26 inch wheels. The tires are strong and durable and can handle two passengers with ease. The rear height is 17 inches while the front is 18 inches – a height that makes it easy to mount the bike whether you’re riding in the front or the back.
You get two water bottle holders so both you and your partner can stay hydrated for the long ride ahead. The frame is a light blue/gray with bright green accents and looks quite stylish. If you and your partner plan to use this bike a lot, you may want to consider getting a better quality seat and some new tires. This truly is a stylish looking bike but with a few extras tweaks, it can be really comfortable, too.
3. Kulana lua single speed tandem (Link)
If you’re looking for a bike for leisurely rides, this bright yellow offering from Kulana Lua is a heavy, slow moving, single speed cruiser. You and your partner won’t break any speed records with this bike and it’s not the best choice for riding hilly terrains; but if you’re looking for something to ride along the boardwalk or take on a quick trip to the store, this is a perfect choice.
The seats are comfortable and positioned so you’ll have a more relaxed stance when riding. The pedals are easy to reach, the wheels are big, and the oversized steel frame looks stylish while also being really durable. This is a heavy bike – it weighs 62 pounds! It’s also 25 inches high. People will notice you and your partner on this big, brightly colored bike.
This bike has coaster brakes on the front and rear seat just like the bikes you first learned to ride on as a kid. The handlebars are positioned high and easy to hold on to. Fenders and white walled tired finish off the vintage look of this bicycle.
Because this bike is so simple and only one speed, there’s not much you can do to increase the performance. You can add accessories, like a new seat or a basket, which will make your leisurely ride a bit more fun.
4. Schwinn twinn tandem (Link)
Schwinn is a well-known bicycle brand that has been around a long time, so it’s no surprise that their tandem bike is one of the best around. The aluminum frame is lightweight and has a low bar in the rear seat making it easy to accommodate shorter riders. The Shimano EZ-Fire gear shifters and rear derailleur move through the 21 gears easily to make this a smooth riding experience.
Mechanical disc brakes have excellent stopping power, even in you get caught in the rain. Both sets of handlebars are equipped with ergonomic grips plus the saddles are plush and comfortable. You’ll both be comfortable taking this on quick rides around town.
For longer journeys, you might want to upgrade a few things to make it more comfortable and durable but as it is, you’ll still be able to get a lot of enjoyment out of it on leisurely rides.
For more couple activity ideas, consider ordering a date night box.