Tandem Brakes; Tandem Drum Brakes - Cannondale TANDEMS 2009 Owner's Manual

Tandem Brakes

Tandems can stop shorter than single bikes on pavement.
The reason: a single bike's braking performance is limited by the physics of pitching the rider
over the front wheel. The tandem has the stoker's weight to hold the rear wheel down, so risk of
pitchover is minimized.
The tandem's braking force on pavement is limited by the friction between the tire and the
road. How great is that? It depends on the road and the tire, but it is very large. Since you
don't want a front-wheel skid, don't be too bold. On good pavement, you can stop slightly
more abruptly than you would on a single bike. Remember to gauge this by the feeling of
deceleration, not by the brake hand lever effort. On poor pavement, unpaved surfaces, sand,
oil, or any other debris, brake gingerly. Slow down—drastically—before you reach such
surfaces.
Tandems, like singles, get most of their braking force from the front wheel. The rear wheel
is more prone to skidding. The left hand lever normally controls the front brake. Apply front
braking more than the rear brake for maximum stopping power. Brake before turns, not in
them. If you must brake in a turn, do it with the rear brake.
Tandems are much faster than singles on downhills: GO SLOW and control your speed.

Tandem Drum Brakes

Tandems bike frames are sometimes fitted with a rear drum brake (such as Arai ). Rear drum
brakes can be used as drag brakes to control speed such as on long downhill descents. Drum
brakes are capable of dissipating heat without affecting other systems. A drum brake can be
set up in addition to rim brakes.
Please consult with your Cannondale Dealer or shop to help you select and install a compatible
drum brake system. Read and follow the brake manufacturer's instructions.
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