With hassle free loading and a safe, solid ride for tandem bicycles, the SideWinder is the only tandem mount on the market that carries bikes using frame supports instead of wheeltrays. Convenient one person loading plus an easy swing out skewer arm will make this a favorite for tandem owners across the planet.
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Worcester, MA Date Reviewed: July 20, 2001
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Who can remember?
Strengths:
Very Sturdy. Bike is stable in the mount.
Weaknesses:
Pricey
Similar Products Used:
Thule Tandem Rack (borrowed)
Bike Setup:
Burley Road Tandem
Bottom Line:
The tandem rack was what led me to Yakima in the first place. The Thule system for tandems at the time was OK, but much more expensive. I have used this rack for about 7 years with no issues.
It is advertised as a rack that one person can use to put the tandem on. I would argue that this person needs some upper body strength though. I have used it mainly on a Caravan. I am 5'11" and it is a bit of a stretch. On a smaller vehicle it would be easier.
The main thing to look for is a rack that will not damage the bike. The front uses a traditional fork mount and the back has a small 12" tray that the bottom tube between the cranks sits in. This seems to be pretty good. I do occasionally get the crank-to-crank chain hung up on the strap buckles though. This is annoying but not terrible.
I have no major complaints. Tandems are a difficult item to carry in any case.
I noticed on Yakima's web site that the price is up to $335 which seems kind of high. But it still less than Thule's.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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