From Record-Breakers to Life-Changers: Rodriguez Tandems Through the Years

Jul 18, 2025

The bicycle world has always attracted “can-do” spirits — rare birds with stubborn hearts and creative minds.

Back in the 1980's, musical duos like the Eurythmics, Wham!, and Hall & Oates topped the charts. At the same time, another creative duo, Angel Rodriguez and Glenn Erickson, were making R+E Cycles a hit in the tandem world. While other builders said “no,” they leaned in with a signature response: “We’ll figure it out.” That spirit of possibility and precision still drives what we do today. A legacy that has spanned 5 decades.

In 1980, Bicycling Magazine called the Rodriguez tandem “the most advanced tandem we’ve ever seen.” That was just the beginning.

In 1984, Estelle Gray (then-manager and future co-owner) teamed up with Cheryl Marek to set a coast-to-coast tandem world record on their Rodriguez tandem. A record that still stands today.

Estelle Gray (front), Cheryl Marek (back) set the Women's Cross Country Record in 1984

That same decade, Angel developed one of the first aluminum off-road tandems — a cult classic, even today.

From our 1980's tandem catalog introducing the AL26 Off-Road tandem

Another thing we figured out? Bikes built for more than 2 riders. This is a daunting task for any builder, and most won't even attempt it. But Angel and Glenn figured it out. Here is a photo of an early bicycle built for three in process.

Assembly of an early Rodriguez Triple. Circa 1980's

That scrappy “yes” spirit still guides us. Today, we build bikes for 3, 4, even 5 people. We can even build them to convert for 5-4-3-2 or 1 riders. Xtra-Long Bike Gallery.

A recent 5,4,3,2 build with electric assist and travel packing ability.

Tandem riding can be leisurely, or competitive, or BOTH at the same time. That's the beauty of it. You can ride with your partner even if you have different skill levels, fitness, or enthusiasm. Since I've been married 41 years now, it's important to find ways to enjoy activities together. Tandem riding evens out all of the differences between us. The other couples that you meet when riding tandems are a blast too.

Lately, we’ve had the honor of helping several couples keep riding together by introducing them to tandems — especially when one partner is beginning to lose the ability to ride a solo bike. Tandems allow one rider to control the bike, but both still get to experience the joy of movement, connection, and shared adventure. It’s one of the most meaningful things we get to do — helping people stay active and together, even through aging, injury, or unexpected change.

Thinking of Trying a Tandem? Here's One Big Rule.

If you're curious about tandem riding — or thinking about introducing it to someone else — there's one thing we always say:

Don't borrow a tandem. Don't jump on with a friend. And definitely don't let a shop send you out without a proper lesson.

Tandem riding can be joyful, empowering, and connection-building. But without some guidance? That first ride can feel clumsy and stressful — and sadly, it turns many people off for good.

At R+E Cycles, we've helped hundreds of new riders ease into tandem life the right way. We believe every new tandem team deserves a positive, stress-free first ride.

That’s why we offer private tandem lessons for $200. We walk you through captain and stoker roles, teach communication and shifting, and ride with you until you feel confident.

Even better: if you end up purchasing a tandem from us, we’ll apply that full $200 toward your bike.

Questions? Just reply to this email — we’re happy to chat.

Thanks for being part of our ride.

Warmly,

Dan

Bicycles Hand Built in Seattle Since 1973
5627 University Way NE Seattle, WA 98105