53 - 32 too big a jump ?

[nfmisso]

I am continue to plan the build of the JT tandem; I am thinking a 12-36T 9 speed cassette at the back with a 53-32T double combination at the front. Is 53-32 too big of a jump for a FD to handle?

50-34 is the standard compact double. Our T50 works fine with 26-44-54 triple.

It will be set up with the 53T chainring aligned with the middle cog in the 9 speed cassette, and the 34 only used as a bailout on steep grades, and only with larger 4 sprockets at the back. The upshift would not have to quick.

And facts? Opinions?

[DaveM]

Only opinions
- It will work, but the shifting won't be great. And you should use a triple front derailleur.
I've no experience with tandems. It seems like having two people putting pressure on the pedals would make shifting a little harder in general as it would be hard to get the stoker to ease off the pressure during shifts.