In Paralympic para cycling, the sighted rider on a tandem bicycle is called the pilot.
Tandem cycling is used in para cycling for athletes in the visually impaired classification. The athlete with a visual impairment sits on the rear seat, while the sighted pilot rides at the front and controls steering, braking and gear changes. Both riders contribute to propulsion through the linked pedals.
The pilot is a competition partner, not simply a coach or escort. The pair must coordinate cadence, balance, positioning and tactical decisions at high speed. Pilots may be experienced cyclists who specialize in tandem racing, and their performance directly affects the result.
Para cycling also includes handcycling, tricycle and standard bicycle events for other eligible impairment groups. Consequently, not every para cyclist uses a tandem. The term “pilot” specifically belongs to the tandem partnership, while “guide” is a broader word used in several other para sports.