Sharing power: effects of rider ability and position on tandem performance

Abstract Objective Tandem cycling requires a coordinated effort between the pilot and the stoker. Previous research suggests that randomly paired tandem cyclists produce lower power output than when cycling solo. This study examined how a cyclist’s individual ability and their position on the tandem (pilot or stoker) affects pair performance, when partners are either closely matched or differ substantially in solo cycling capacity, as this might be relevant for training and selection. Methods Twenty-three trained cyclists completed three 10-minute time trials: solo, equal-capacity tandem (≤25 W difference in solo performance), and unequal-capacity tandem (≥40 W difference). Mean power output, heart rate, cadence, and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were recorded. Positions (pilot or stoker) were counterbalanced. Linear mixed-effects models assessed effects of capacity and position. Results Relative to solo cycling, equal-capacity tandem pairs revealed lower power output (-3.9%), lower heart rate (-2.3%), and lower RPE (-11.5%). Unequal-capacity tandems differed from solo only in heart rate (-2.7%). Stokers produced lower power relative to solo (-5.3%) and relative to pilots (-3.7%) and reported lower RPE relative to solo (-13.9%), while pilots matched their solo power at a lower heart rate (-2.9%). Cadence did not differ across conditions. Total tandem power averaged 95.6% of combined solo power, and differences in partner capacity did not significantly affect combined power output. Conclusion This study provides the first known experimental data on how partner matching affects individual and combined power output in tandem cycling. Equal- and unequal-capacity tandem pairs showed similar performance. Lower power and RPE among stokers suggest reduced engagement or a redistribution of effort between riders. These findings highlight that effective tandem performance depends on physiological capacity and rider position on the tandem, but not on the difference in capacity between partners.