What is your tandem training like?
Our training sessions are thorough and fun. We tend to have several new riders, sighted and visually impaired, at each session. Most have never ridden a tandem before or guided a visually impaired person. Our sessions are designed to ensure everyone feels comfortable and safe on our rides, both on and off the tandem.
We train all riders on the importance of the 3 Cs of tandem riding: communication, control and confidence. We talk about visual impairment and how to guide a blind person when walking. We then demonstrate tandem riding. New riders then try tandem riding in the safety of the park. The final part is a ride out on paths and roads.
Until riders have completed their training, we pair new sighted riders with other sighted riders, and new visually impaired riders with experienced sighted pilots.
How long does tandem training take?
We run training sessions every two months or so. Riders can complete it in a single 2-3 hour session, or in a couple of sessions, depending on their needs, progress and confidence. Further practice is always an option and is easily arranged.
I have experience riding a tandem, do I need to complete your training?
Yes, as part of our commitment to rider and ride safety we ask that all new riders complete training, regardless of experience. Communicating with and guiding a visually impaired person is just as important as safe tandem riding skills.
How do I sign up for training?
Email us at hello@vievelo.org and we will get back to you promptly with more information.
What other types of training do you do?
We offer first aid and ride leader training to our riders, typically on an annual basis. Many of our riders are qualified Cycling Scotland ride leaders. We also do tandem 'M' check and basic maintenance training.
