Gravel Tandem

Last year I traded into a used road tandem (Cannondale RT1000), threw on the largest tires that would fit, and took it to a few Michigan gravel races for fun. One with my 8yo son (Cow Pie Classic), another with my sister-in-law (Dirty Mitten), pictures included. We had a blast, but there were a few issues with the bike. First, it’s a size small and I’m 6’3”, so I’m pretty cramped in the captain’s seat and it’s twitchy. Second, the max tire clearance for the back wheel is 35mm, leaving only 1-2mm to the chainstays, so that’s really pushing it for gravel riding. I wanted something that was my size, tire clearance better suited to gravel, but also comfortable enough that I can continue to get my family out on it. After a bit of searching, I ended up with this DaVinci In2ition off eBay. It has an interesting gearbox that allows the stoker to freewheel if necessary, which will be nice for my young kids when we’re out together. But more importantly, the 26” wheel size offers a lot of clearance, even if it’s not optimal for speed. I prefer slicks since Michigan gravel is often smooth and fast, and fortunately Rene Herse makes a tubeless ready 1.8” slick in 26”. I set up the rims (Sunrims CR18) tubeless by removing the old rim tape adhesive with Goo Gone then cleaning with isopropyl alcohol, then using Stan’s rim tape, valve stems, and 60mL No Tubes sealant. Both wheels set up easy with an air compressor and have held pressure through the weekend. Degreased the drivetrain and new chains, and applied Squirt drip wax. Super excited for spring and the opportunity to get it out on the road, and the first race is already on the calendar (Dirty Donut with my sister-in-law). I’m really interested to see how the switch from 700c to 26” goes.

by kevdou