Classic tandem

[Jason Bell]

Hi i bought this tandem for 20 quid and i would like to know more about it. It has no badges or any thing that tells a name it has a unusual 2 chains with a fixed crank and is also a singlespeed the front can also be detatched from the bike.

 

[smokeysmoo]

It looks to me like something from a holiday camp. Hi-De-Hi, bing bong

Are their no serial numbers anywhere? The underside of the BB shell is the most common place IME.

 

[Jason Bell]

Not a thing on the bike that says anything really need to get a good look at the bike no serial numbers under the bb shell

 

[pubrunner]

If you decide to restore this bike - you should (imo) improve the brakes. (By the look of things, the Captain has control of the front brake only).

IMO, this is a specialised bike, produced for non-challenging riding. If it were mine, I'd sell it, 'cos it'll require a considerable amount of time and money. Furthermore, it is likely that it'll require further modifying and improving. For example, the chain tension looks as if it will need some attention; the brakes will need improving. I'd also replace the handlebars.

The current gearing and brakes would make it less than ideal for longer rides. It probably would be advisable, not to have two adults on it - most older steel-framed tandems flex dreadfully. If you do want a tandem for two adults to use, on fairly challenging roads, then I'd consider something else.

At the end of the day, it depends what you wish to do with it. I find that I get a great deal of satisfaction, just in 'doing up' a bike; I've lost money on every one mind.

Your bike would be fine for pootling along quiet country lanes that are fairly flat, with a child or small adult as stoker. It does have the big advantage, of the front being detachable from the rear - making it easier to transport. (Detachable tandems cost ££££ to buy)

 

[simon.r]

My guess is that it's home made from 2 old Raleigh shoppers or similar?

 

[Baggy]

My guess is that it's home made from 2 old Raleigh shoppers or similar?

That's what I was thinking, too.

 

[biggs682]

That's what I was thinking, too.

and me , looks like you might have some busy nights ahead , best of luck

 

[Jason Bell]

The man I bought it from had it restored and painted he left it in is loft and moisture got in and destoyed most of the bike. I am planning on restoring it again and maybe install a 3 speed SA. There is brakes at the back all of the brakes could do with a upgrade. I'm not planning on doing much cycling with it just a fun and interesting thing to own.

 

[growingvegetables]

My guess is that it's home made from 2 old Raleigh shoppers or similar?

+1
And built by somebody who knows less about engineering than I do - does such a mythical being exist? Fwiw, I'd be wary, very wary, of the front half of the frame ........ just breaking off! Or at least flexing wildly. 2 people's weight supported by a wee triangle of steel welded in as an afterthought?
Sorry - that's real wet blanket stuff

 

[mickle]

It's real I reckon, and that coaster brake is more than man enough to stop it from pootling speed. It would make a super little fun family bike. Though the amount of work required would put me off, as long as it's structurally sound, and you have the time and inclination I say go for it. It's a rare beauty.

 

[mazza_forever]

I am almost certain that this is a Graziella Folding Tamdem (Classic, Vintage)... found your post as my father-in-law has an immaculate one he wants to sell and we were trying to get a value for it. Google it for pictures. They are white - yours was painted?

 

[porteous]

It doesn't look like the Graziella folders I have found photos of. It certainly has the look of a double Raleigh Shopper (The front brake looks very TI Raleigh). There are some good photos of a Graziella here: http://www.foldingcyclist.com/Graziella-Tandem-folding-bike.html

I share growingvegetables' doubts about the strength of the joint which joins the front to the back. Perhaps OK with a new (high tensile?) nut and bolt, and never ever allowed to get loose?


On the plus side you will probably have a lot of fun restoring and riding it gently, and you have got your money's worth on the parts alone.

 

[alecstilleyedye]

The man I bought it from had it restored and painted he left it in is loft and moisture got in and destoyed most of the bike. I am planning on restoring it again and maybe install a 3 speed SA. There is brakes at the back all of the brakes could do with a upgrade. I'm not planning on doing much cycling with it just a fun and interesting thing to own.

how the dickens did he get it up there?

 

[RaszkoV]

Hello !
The bike you own is the Romet Duet.
This is a two-man version of the Polish "Wigry" folding bike.
Your copy was produced in the early 70's.
Possibly, I would be interested in buying

 

[simon.r]