Looking for a wayTo easilyTransport yourTandem bike?The Yakima SidewinderTandem fork mount bike carrier is a great solution featuring an easy-to-use swing-out skewer arm for easy loading. Swing-out skewer arm enables youTo hookThe fork on first,Then swingThe bike into place Holds aTandem more securelyThan wheel-tray designs Lockable long-throw skewer handles any 9mm/100mmTandem fork Padded boom cradle and quick-release ratcheting straps protect bottom-mounted cables Includes handlebar strap for
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Worcester, MA
Date Reviewed: July 20, 2001
Strengths: Very Sturdy. Bike is stable in the mount.
Weaknesses: Pricey
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.
