Doug Pinkerton, our framebuilder delivered the tandem to us at Ripley cycle jumble, 19-6-05. (After some late night assembly work due to a delayed powder coat job).
By 23-6-05 it was fitted with our favourite saddles, racks and touring gear.
Here is a view showing 'the insert' designed by Doug. Its design is based on photos provided by Michael Kater of his ATB tandem.
The twin bottom tubes of the insert bolt onto a pair of lugs braised onto the rear bottom bracket.
The frame is separable into three parts - about a 10 minute job. The parts fit into two slightly-modified Moulton carrying bags.
This package is approx. 100 x 90 x 45 cm (reducing to 100 x 65 x 45 cm with both seat pins removed)
It will fit into the boot of almost any car. Here it is behind the rear seats of a Renault Kangoo.
The rear 'knuckle joint' from the donor APB has been dispensed with. Its retention would have made it feasible to revert to a solo APB but for us this was outweighed by the advantages of simpler separation and a much cleaner-looking design.
To cope with heavier braking loads, a cable-operated disc brake is fitted to the rear triangle in addition to the original V-brakes. The stoker operates one of the V-brakes.
It handles very well, both lightly and fully loaded.
Our favourite holiday transport!