General collection notes
We have found, over the years, that the most successful hires happen when both riders come to collect the tandem. This allows our Helper to make sure that that tandem is adjusted correctly. It also means both riders have a test ride. This works best in the following way:
The Helper will go through the Borrower's Form with you (that you'll have downloaded from our homepage, printed and brought with you). They will summarise the T's and C's to check that you understand them. They will do the maintenance check with you and point out any possible defects.
The Helper will lend you helmets, high viz vests and anything else you need, if they have them, and will help you load the tandem into or onto your car. Putting the tandem in or on your car isn't that hard, see our Advice webpage. Some of our Helpers may offer to transport it for you and you may wish to pay them back for their fuel costs: most Helpers require you to collect it.
- The Stoker first rides with the Helper. The Helper will be a confident rider and hence the Stoker will feel safe with them and will enjoy it.
- The new Pilot then rides on their own to get used to the long length of the tandem and gear controls etc.
- The Pilot and Stoker now ride together.
- Position the tandem on a flat bit of tarmac (or slightly downhill), hold the tandem upright and pointing in the right direction.
- Pilot climbs over the frame, puts both feet on the floor and holds both brakes on hard.
- Stoker gets on to their saddle and puts feet on pedals.
- Pilot gets on their saddle, releases the brakes, gets the tandem rolling and balanced before starting to pedal.
The Helper will go through the Borrower's Form with you (that you'll have downloaded from our homepage, printed and brought with you). They will summarise the T's and C's to check that you understand them. They will do the maintenance check with you and point out any possible defects.
The Helper will lend you helmets, high viz vests and anything else you need, if they have them, and will help you load the tandem into or onto your car. Putting the tandem in or on your car isn't that hard, see our Advice webpage. Some of our Helpers may offer to transport it for you and you may wish to pay them back for their fuel costs: most Helpers require you to collect it.
Collecting from Gloucestershire
If you are collecting from Alex in Gloucestershire then when you come down into the dip in the lane then pull into the right (not the left) and he will meet you at the agreed time, next to the chickens, near the Greenhouse.
Alex requires both riders to come for a test ride, unless they have successfully ridden a tandem together previously.
Alex requires both riders to come for a test ride, unless they have successfully ridden a tandem together previously.
Collecting from Shropshire
If you are collecting from Ray in Shropshire then you will need to open the driveway gate. Don’t worry if the dog is there, he’s friendly. Ray looks forward to helping you with a test ride in the quiet lane outside his house.
Collecting from Other Helpers
Our other Helpers will give you other instructions in their messages to you.
