Ahh, the basic tandem misconception. Nobody should be just hanging out. Usually I'm the stoker when Thom and I ride. But I did a women's only ride with a friend and learned to captain. Personally I found it kind of stressful, no matter who was stoking for me - Thom or my friend. Both were amazingly supportive, but I was really aware that if the bike got dumped, I would be at fault. Plus I don't really think about downshifting too much when stopping on my single. It's a must for a tandem. And my stops and starts were never as smooth as I would have liked. It was a good experience and I would do it again for that ride. It's good to get out of your comfort zone every now and then.

Communication is a must on the tandem. Thom doesn't tell me about any bumps. I told him to stop. I have a Thudbuster seat post and a Brooks saddle. Between the two I don't feel very many bumps. We have a lot of nonverbal communication that goes on. I think it's because we're about the same size. He shifts at about the same time I would. I can see over his shoulder so I can anticipate stops. And I try to ride with what I think of as a light touch on the pedals. That doesn't mean not putting in any effort, but rather being responsive to any sudden changes he makes.

Veronica