Blind People in Tandem Racing

Tandem cycling is a popular sport among people who are blind or visually impaired. It is a sport in which people who are blind or visually impaired can compete along side people who are fully sighted.

Types of racing

Road racing

Road racing takes place on the road. It can last for up to a few hours. Road bikes sometimes incorporate aerodynamic design and they sometimes have up to 27 speeds.

Track racing

Track racing takes place in a velodrome, a steep banked circuit track. Track bikes have only one speed; which is custom fitted to the cyclist. Track cycles also do not have brakes.

Types of riders

Captain

The captain is the person in the front seat. He or she is always fully sighted. The captain is the one who controls the bike.

Stocker

The stocker is the person riding in the back seat. He or she is either totally blind or visually impaired. The stocker helps power the bike along with the captain.

Both the captain and the stocker must cooperate as a team in order to achieve their goal.

Related Links

USABA-United States Association of Blind Athletes

TexCATS-Texas Capital Area Tandem Society

Volunteer Opportunities-A site posting bike related volunteer opportunities in the Austin area.

Cycling Clubs in Texas-A site with a focus on using bikes as an alternate transportation

Texas Cycling Laws-A site posting the Texas laws regarding bicycling

Harris Cyclery-This site tells you some useful riding tips for beginning tandem riders

Where to buy a tandem bike

• International cycling centers
• Tandems and triples
• Gear-To-Go Tandems

Created by Sam and Alfonzo
Intro to Work Program- Summer 2001