Re the Rene Herse tandem having final drive from the front chainset. I had a JT tandem set up like this. I did not like the set up as i chain flapped around and some times interfered with the rear rh crank (although I never stoked). The Tandem belong to Ken Taylor. I noted on his next tandem, the final drive came from the rear chainset. When I asked why, he replied "fashion".
I have a higgins Ultra light, with a 2 X 8 gear set up, driving from the rear chainset (TA). The chainstay is very short but it can handle most of the sprockets. No big feet on the back though.
Just a further though, does any one have tandem & sidecar experience they can share with us?
Regards
Martin Coopland, Scotland, http://www.BatesBicycles.com