Who rides at the front of a para-cycling tandem?
I · Intermediate · Classes and machines · 3 of 6B-class riders race on tandems with a sighted pilot in front who steers; both pedal. The pilot needs an international licence and the rider's sporting nationality. Each rider has one pilot per competition, replaceable for injury or illness up to 24 hours before the start. Pilots must be over 18 and not recently selected for top able-bodied events.
How it works
- Tandem: two wheels of equal diameter, two riders.
- Pilot: in front, steers.
- Both: pedal the rear wheel.
- Licence: international, for both.
- Nationality: the same for both.
- One pilot: per competition.
- Replacement: medical reason, 24 hours before.
- Not eligible: UCI pros, recent world or Olympic selection.
The glossary has the tandem, the tandem pilot, the B, the tandem sprint, the individual pursuit (para-cycling) and the kilometre and 500 m time trial.
Tricky cases
Can the pilot change on race day?
No. Only up to 24 hours before.
Can a pilot be from another country?
No.
Can a pilot have raced the Olympics?
Not in the 12 months before.
Does the pilot need a licence?
Yes, an international racing licence.
Why the rule exists
The pilot replaces sight, not strength, so limits on who can pilot stop teams using elite able-bodied riders.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Pilot age | Over 18 | 16.3.005 |
| Pilot count | One | 16.3.006 |
| Replacement | 24 hours before | 16.3.007 |
From the rule book
UCI, Cycling Regulations, Part 16 Cycling for Riders with Disabilities (JCF edition 2025, amendments to 1 January 2026), articles 16.3.001 to 16.3.007 and 16.15.001. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: UCI Cycling Regulations, Part 16.