Riding Again After 20 Years!

Andrew Coleman joined a ride with SAVI Tandem Club for the first time recently, and shared his experience. Andrew is the Learning Skills & Lifestyle Manager at Galloways Society for the Blind who support people affected by sight loss across Lancashire and Sefton. He is also registered blind. Thanks to Andrew for giving it a try and sharing his experience!

Yesterday, I completed my first tandem ride in nearly two decades — and what an amazing experience it was! As a blind person, riding a bike has felt out of reach for a long time. But thanks to a brilliant group of front riders and a warm, supportive team, I was back on two wheels and absolutely loving it.

We covered around 30 miles, setting off from Moreton and pedalling through New Brighton, Port Sunlight, and Bromborough, before stopping for a well-earned break and lunch at the lovely Mimosa Tea Garden near Eastham Ferry. The ride back was a bit windier and tougher — we definitely had to put in some hard work!

There were loads of laughs, great conversations, and the joy of meeting new people along the way. One of my favourite moments? Trying to make it through the green lights before they turned red — with everyone cheering each other on — and the smiles and waves from passers-by who were clearly fascinated by the group of tandems rolling past.

If you’re new to the idea of a tandem bike, it’s a bicycle designed for two people. A sighted person takes the lead as the front rider, steering and braking, while a back rider pedals along and enjoys the ride. It’s a fantastic way for blind and visually impaired people to experience the freedom of cycling — and it’s always a team effort.

If you’re blind or visually impaired and have never tried tandem cycling, you are truly missing out. It’s not just exhilarating and liberating — it gives you a powerful sense of freedom, exploration, and connection. You’ll meet some amazing people and share a lot of laughs along the way.

Fancy giving tandem cycling a go?

The Tandem Club run by SAVI Northwest is especially for blind and visually impaired people, offering friendly and accessible group rides.

You’ll be made to feel really welcome — give it a try and discover just how far a tandem ride can take you!

We are always happy for new back riders to join our rides, and we're always keen to have experienced cyclists to pilot the tandems and support the rides. Previous tandem experience isn't required, and we have taster and training sessions throughout the year to prepare new riders. Please contact us if you'd like to give it a go!