A tandem bike or two-wheeler is the most famous bicycle worldwide for couples, parents, and adults who want to have fun with family or friends or enhance attachments with their significant ones. It has been used for centuries and was first introduced to Europe during the 19th century.
The name “Tag Along” comes from its original use by Chinese laborers who would ride behind their bosses on horseback. Today it can be seen worldwide with many different variations, including single-seat bikes, double seats, three wheels, four wheels, etc.
The Tandem Bike Attachments are explicitly designed for such a style of bike. They allow you to attach your trailer directly to the rear wheel without having to remove any parts. This makes them easy to install and removes much of the hassle of connecting trailers to other types of bikes.
Types of Tandem Bike Attachments
Tag-Along Bike
A tag-along bike is a bicycle accessory that converts an adult bicycle into a tandem bicycle for riding with a child. The handlebars, pedals, and rear tire of the half bike are connected to the frame of the adult bike.
Recumbent Trailer Cycle
These trailer attachments put the child in a recumbent position (leaning somewhat back), with their body significantly lower to the ground and the pedals in front of them rather than beneath them. They also come with a harness, just like a regular bike trailer.
Tow Bar
Tow bars allow you to attach your child's bike to yours through a bar or a robust coupler. These attachments effectively convert a child's bike into a tag-along bike, keeping the child's bike upright and at a certain distance from the adult.
Tow bars, unlike tag-along bikes, allow kids to ride their bikes on family rides and then simply hook them up and tow them home if they become tired. You might also choose to pull a child for the duration of the journey.
The tow bars are safely stowed on the adult bike so that you can use them at any moment during your trip.
Tow Rope
Tow ropes use a small line or bungee to connect the adult bike's headset to the child's bike's headset. The ropes are intended to tow inexperienced or exhausted riders up steeper track portions, not for long lengths or flat terrain.
Benefits of Tandem Bike Attachments
The Tandem bike attachments are a great way to get your kids on the road. It attaches easily and securely, allowing you to ride with them in comfort while they learn how to balance themselves as well as control their speed. The tandem bike attachment can be used for children ages 3-7 years old.
Here are some benefits of buying tandem attachments:
- No tools are required for installation! Simply slide into position and tighten with the hex keys provided.
- There are no problematic bolts or screws required in this design. Simply slide existing frame components into place.
- Construction is lightweight and durable, and it is made of high-quality Steel.
- When mounted to uneven surfaces, a sturdy aluminum base plate provides stability.
- You won't need to buy any more hardware because it comes with it.
- If desired, it can be readily deleted.
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How To Install Tandem Bike Attachments On Your Bike?
Note: The rear wheel comes installed. It can stay put while you install your new tandem bicycle attachment.
Step 1
Remove the front wheel assembly from the bike. You will need to loosen the quick release lever located at the bottom center of the hub axle. Once loosened, pull up on the handlebars until they come off ultimately.
Step 2
Take the brake caliper assembly off the top tube. Finally, unscrew the nut holding the stem together. Now you should be able to lift the entire stem assembly off the fork steerer tubes. Be sure not to lose these pieces because we'll need them later.
Step 3
Take the new Tandem Bike Attachment apart. There's nothing tricky about removing the unit; just undo the six Phillips head screw holes around the perimeter of the bracket. Then simply push the frame away from the bike. When finished, reassemble the unit back onto the bike. Make sure everything lines up correctly before tightening the nuts again.
Step 4
Reattach the front wheel assembly to the bike. First, make sure there isn't anything blocking access to the quick-release levers. If necessary, move some things aside temporarily. Loosen the quick-release lever located near the bottom center of the axle. Pulling upward on the handlebar should cause the brakes to disengage.
Step 5
After releasing the brakes, turn the pedals forward slightly and then let go of the handles. As soon as the brakes stop turning, quickly grab hold of the handlebars and pull straight backward. This action should free the front wheel assembly from being held tight against the forks.
Step 6
Slide the new Tandem Bike Bracket onto the top tube where the old one once sat. Tighten the bolt securing the bracket to the bike.
Warning: Do not attempt this modification unless you are familiar with how bicycles work. Failure to follow proper procedures could result in severe injury or death. Always wear a helmet and use caution when working on any vehicle.
Final Verdict
The Tandem bike attachments are a great way to get your tandem bike up and running. It’s easy to install, it works well with most bicycles, and the price is right for what you are getting.
The only downside we found was that there is a risk of attachment fall if the instruction is not followed correctly. Installation might seem difficult initially, but installing this system will be very simple once you figured out how everything worked together.
If you have any questions about any attachment product or anything else related to bicycles, then feel free to comment below. I will be happy to help you!