Para cycling uses a tandem bicycle for athletes with visual impairments.
In tandem para cycling, a visually impaired athlete rides in the rear position while a sighted pilot rides in front. The two cyclists share the pedals and race as a single team. The pilot steers and helps manage the bicycle, while the pair must work together on pacing, cornering and race tactics.
Para cycling includes road and track disciplines. Depending on the athlete’s eligible impairment, competitors may use a standard bicycle, handcycle, tricycle or tandem. Tandem events are therefore one part of a wider sport rather than the equipment used by every para cyclist.
The tandem format is also found outside the Paralympic programme, but Paralympic competition applies classification and eligibility rules established for international para cycling. It is distinct from para triathlon, where athletes may use a tandem in some categories but compete across swimming, cycling and running.