Because riding a tandem is different than riding a single, a properly-sized tandem should not mimic the fit of your solo bikes. When you follow our sizing chart, we guarantee your tandem will allow a comfortable and efficient fit. As always, if you have special concerns, call us or send a mail.

How to measure yourselves
To determine frame size, measure your actual inseam (crotch to floor, without shoes). To measure accurately, slide a skinny book or clipboard up along the wall between your legs as high as possible (until your heels begin to leave the floor). After obtaining your measurements, Check them against the charts at left. You and your partner will probably discover that one or more of our stock sizes fits. If not, don’t fret, Santana makes custom tandems, too. The charts at the far left are in centimeters — if you don’t have a metric tape, multiply your inseam (in inches) by 2.54.

Captains

Because captains support the stoker while starting and stopping, captains must be able to straddle a top tube with a stance wide enough to clear rotating pedals. If the sizing chart indicates compatibility with two sizes, the bar centered to your measurement is generally the best choice. However, if your leg length is not proportional to your height (and you need a longer or shorter top tube), it is smart to consider the other alternative.

Stokers

Stokers quickly learn that the easiest way to climb aboard is to step on a pedal and swing a leg over (while the captain straddles and holds up the bike)—just like getting on a horse. You can find a video tutorial with English subtiteles on how to get on and off the tandem bike on our YouTube channel. Further, because stokers will never have to put a foot down (take-offs and landings are the responsibility of the captain), standover becomes inconsequential. This makes tandems very versatile—even cyclists under 5’ tall can fit on the back. Because our sizing chart includes clearance for the stoker’s shock-absorbing seatpost, a standard seatpost allows leg lengths to be two inches (5cm) shorter. Because riding a tandem is different than riding a single, a properly-sized tandem should not mimic the fit of your single bikes. Further, with tandem-specific geometry, numerous micro-adjust points and a wide range of standard sizes, Santana’s standard-sized tandems fit 90% of all couples.

Do you need a custom size?

Many couples assume they need a custom tandem because of different height. While this seems valid, Santana tandems allow for dramatic differences (or similarities) in rider proportions. With tandem specific geometry, numerous micro-adjust points and a wide range of standard sizes, Santana´s standard-sized tandems fit 95% of all couples.

Custom Configurations

Need something really special? If you can describe it, we can built it. We've designed and built winning track tandems and record-setting ultra-endurance tandems. We've also crated reverse-size (small in front) and step-through frames (mixte-back or double-dutch). Finally, there are the easy jobs - Softride beams, S&S couplers and hydraulic disc brakes. Whatever you need or desire, we are here to help.

When you are in the market for a custom tandem, there is no need to resign yourself to the limitations of a custom frame builder. Santana builds so many custom tandems and no other builder can match our uncompromised range of materials and experience. Whether it's personalised sizing, use-specific geometry, extra braze-ons or a unique paint scheme, we are ready to create your ultimate tandem.