Blog

Scientists at the National University of Ireland Galway and Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) and KU Leuven have  been exploring the role of aerodynamic science in Paralympic cycling.  Two key findings were: 

1) The typical time-trial setup with a time-trial handlebar for the pilot and the stoker does not provide the lowest aerodynamic resistance. The stoker holding the seatpost of the tandem bicycle (frame-clench setup) provides a gain of 8.1 s over a 10 km race.

2) The most aerodynamic race setup of the tandem cyclists is not the one where pilot and stoker bodies are closest to the horizontal. The pilot being slightly more upright gives a benefit of 6.5 s over 10 km.

Read the full article here.

The White Rim Trail, located in the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands National Park, in Utah is a 100 mile long bumpy dirt road.  Erik Weihenmayer rode it on a tandem with his captain Charley Mace.  The trail takes cyclists along the “White Rim” layer of sandstone, with dramatic canyons below and majestic red rock cliffs above. The trail leads to arches, towers and other fantastic rock formations.  Way to go, Erik!  Read Erik’s blog of his journey by clicking here.

A tandem captain is needed for a 5’2”, 110 lb woman who lives in Chester, Connecticut. She is training for a triathlon. She used to ride a single bike before she lost her vision. The indoor training is getting boring and she wants to get out on the road.  If you can share the ride, please let us know by using the Contact link.

The United States Association of Blind Athletes will hold a Cycling Camp on September 9-15, 2017, in Colorado Springs, Colorado.  This is for stokers and captains.  Ideal applicants are able to ride two times per day for more than 100 miles of biking during the week.  You should also be able to provide your own captain and equiment (bike, helmet, gloves, shorts, etc…).  If you need a captain or equipment please notify USABA when applying.  Funding is available for military veterans and active duty service members. Click here to learn more and register.