Frequently Asked Questions

• Is it safe to connect with a stranger over the internet? I have a visual impairment and am concerned that one of the captains could be a criminal or have harmful intentions. You have a valid concern. Therefore, we have safety guidelines to help you make wise choices about your cycling connections. Please read the section Getting Started.
• Do you have direct knowledge of the user’s backgrounds or anyone’s cycling ability? No. We do not investigate any user’s background or reputation. Nor, do we verify any representations made by and between users of our site. We simply provide a means for users to learn about one another and, if they wish, to arrange rides together. For more on this, please see our Terms of Use.
• Do you have to be into racing or riding long distances to connect with a tandem partner? Not at all. When you sign up and create your profile, you’ll answer questions to let prospective partners know what type of riding interests you: pleasure or social riding, fitness training, racing, and/or cycling events.
• What if I am a good cyclist, but have never captained a tandem? There is a first time for everyone. If you have good bike handling skills and sound judgment, you can become a competent tandem captain. Read our Tandem Tutorial to get started.
• What if I don’t own a tandem but still want to ride? It may be that there is a captain or stoker, whichever type of rider you need, that owns a tandem but needs partners. So, go ahead, sign up and create your profile. Just answer “No” on the profile question asking if you have access to a tandem.
• Could a tandem partner sue me if he/she believes that I caused an accident, crash, or injury to occur? We certainly hope that would never happen. Cycling is an inherently dangerous sport and each tandem cyclist should know the risks. Thus, as a precondition to using our site, all users must agree to execute The U.S. Blind Tandem Cycling Connection’s Assumption of Risk, Waiver of Liability and Indemnity Agreement. This provides that you waive any claims against and release from liability the captain (if you are a stoker) and the stoker (if you are the captain) in the event you arrange a ride with a person or persons met through our site. But, all that being said, yes, let’s face it, you could still be sued.
• How can I help this online resource to continue and grow? Bicyclingblind.org is dependent on donations from its users. Any amount of money would be appreciated. The U.S. Blind Tandem Cycling Connection is legally recognized by the State of California as a 501 (c) (3) non-profit corporation. 

Have another question?
Contact us and we’ll be sure to get back with you.