2X2 Events
2X2- Tandem Program for individuals with visual impairments.
2X2 was established in 2003 to pair sighted tandem captains with blind/visually impaired tandem stokers. This program allows people with visual impairments to get out and experience cycling on a regular basis, as well as teach sighted people how to captain a tandem (ride on the front!).
- What type of riding background do I need to have?
Answer: Our stokers vary from extremely experienced cyclists to beginners. In order to provide a great cycling experience for a tandem team, a similar background and riding style is important. We need people who have little formal cycling experience as well as people who have been doing long tours and races for years. Our only requirement is that all cyclists wear bicycle helmets.
- What if I make a mistake and I cause a crash with a blind person on the back?
Answer: You as a new captain will receive training in how to captain a tandem. In addition, you work together with experienced stokers, and those stokers will help with balance and control of the bike. You will be amazed at how easy it is to captain a tandem with just a little bit of training. In three years and over 100,000 miles, we have had two very minor falls and no injuries.
- Do I need a tandem?
Answer: No, we provide tandems. However, if you have your own tandem and prefer to ride it, by all means we will try and match you with a stoker who fits your tandem and your riding style.
- What type of time commitment do captains have to give?
Answer: As much or as little as you'd like. People who do not live close by but would like to captain for certain bicycle tours or special events are welcome to do so as their schedule allows. We ride several times per week in addition to the official 2X2 Sunday rides, and if you have a favorite ride, and you'd like to bring a blind stoker and tandem along, please contact us and we'll try to arrange it. We have captains that ride with 2X2 stokers several thousand miles per year, as well as captains who ride with us just a few times per year.
- When do 2X2 cyclists ride?
Answer: Every Sunday, beginning in the middle of May and running until the middle of October, 2X2 hosts a ride on the east side of Detroit. Everybody meets at 9:30 am for a start time of 10:00. Rides average 25 miles in length at a 15 mph pace. In addition, we ride in all of the local bicycle tours, do some races, and do weekly club rides. We need captains for rides any time the weather allows us to go ride. Basically, if you are willing and able to ride, we will try and match you with a stoker when your schedule allows.
In the winter, we stay in shape through spinning classes and stair climbing at the Renaissance Center in Detroit.
- How to I reach you for more information?
Answer: For more information, contact Nino Pacini at 734-658-2919 or by email at npacini@att.net.