Bicycles and summer

Summer fun in the sun on a bicycle built for two!

Ever tried one? You should. Not just for you big kids, take the little ones on a double bike too. You learn a lot about your seatmate; who has weak legs, whose bottom is sore and who has the temper?

I've seen quite a few double occupancy bikes this spring, even trudging up Kings Canyon in the middle of the day. Bicyclists seem to come in two flavors; one the avid every-day buff, and the other the casual outdoor enjoyment type.

I haven't seen too many riders doing the Markleeville Death Ride on a twin bike, so you causal bikers have the edge when it comes to doubles.

Here's how it breaks down. If you want the kids to work out on a bicycle built for two, it's going to cost. Adapters for the bikes to make them fit for kids are expensive. Maybe they should wing it on a single and let Mom and Dad do the duet. If you want to be serious about your tandem game, there are special races set aside just for "twos."

See what you learn by picking up the phone?

And there is a difference between rides and races. For example, the Markleeville Death Ride is open to anyone on any type of bicycles. Races, however, are restricted to usually one style of peddle equipment. Cost? Depends on whether you live and breathe bicycle racing or intend to play. Play can come in as low as $400 for a double bike and as high as $5,000 for a serious competitor.

Something else to consider is that all of those bicycle styles come with speed gears, anywhere from one speed to a 21. I don't know about your house, but mine contains competitive males. Can you imagine the discussion from the back between a husband and wife over who shifted to what gear, when and why? But the plus with tandem bikes is that you can carry on a conversation while you travel.

It's a plus for a relationship with whomever you take as a partner whether it is for racing or fun. It's a great outdoor exercise, lots of fun and you don't get bored. Give a double bike a try. You can rent them just about anywhere in Carson City.

Jerry Vance is certified by the American Council on Exercise and teaches fitness at the Carson City Community Center and for the American Lung Association.