The Double Quad Bike Experience: Pros, Cons, and Tips for Two
06 August 2025
Looking for a thrilling way to explore the great outdoors? The double quad bike might just be your perfect adventure buddy. Riding a tandem ATV offers double the fun and excitement, especially when you’re tearing through wild jungle trails together.
But before you hop on and rev that engine, let’s talk about what this ride actually involves, who it’s perfect for, the ups and downs, and how to make the most out of your off-road adventure.
What Is a Tandem or Double Quad Bike?
A double quad bike, also called a tandem ATV, is an all-terrain vehicle designed to be ridden by two people. Unlike a single ATV that’s built for solo riders, tandem ATVs come with an extended seat, extra footrests, and special suspension systems to handle the weight of two riders comfortably and safely.
You’ll find these powerful machines commonly used in off-road tours, especially in adventure-packed destinations like Bali. They’re perfect for couples, families, and friends who want to enjoy the ride together and share the thrill of navigating muddy paths, rocky trails, and jungle terrain.
Who Should Try the Double Quad Bike?
Tandem ATVs are ideal for:
Couples looking for a fun, bonding experience that gets your hearts racing.
Parents with older children (check minimum age guidelines), who want to experience nature together in a fun and safe way.
Friends or siblings who want to share the laughs, bumps, and splashes of an off-road ride.
Beginners who aren’t confident driving solo.
Don’t worry if you’ve never tried an ATV before. Many first-timers opt for a tandem ATV so they can learn the ropes from someone more experienced, or just enjoy the adventure without the pressure of steering.
Pros of the Double Quad Bike Experience
Let’s dive deeper into what makes the double quad bike ride so popular and what you need to know before hopping on.
1. Shared Adventure
Everything’s better when shared and that includes ATV riding! Riding a double quad bike means you're not going on the journey alone. You get to enjoy the adrenaline, the unexpected bumps, and the laughter together.
Imagine hitting a muddy trail and splashing through a puddle where your partner screams while you laugh, and vice versa. It turns the ride into a bonding moment!
2. Great for Beginners
Not confident about driving an ATV on your first try? No worries! As a passenger on a tandem quad bike, you can still enjoy the experience while observing how the driver handles the terrain.
This makes it a great introduction for first-timers. After seeing how it works, many beginners often feel more confident about trying to drive themselves next time.
3. Safety in Pairs
Two heads are better than one especially on challenging off-road terrain. The driver can focus on navigating, while the passenger keeps an eye out for slippery slopes, rocks, or sudden dips. Having someone else to help spot potential hazards adds a layer of safety to the ride.
4. Easier for Families
If you’re traveling with kids or in a group, tandem ATVs help you stay together and supervise younger riders more easily. Parents can ride with their kids rather than letting them go on a separate ATV, which may not always be allowed or safe depending on the child’s age and experience.
The child got to enjoy the thrill of the jungle ride from a safe seat, while the mom had full control of the ATV. The ride allowed them to share quality time in a fun, outdoor setting. Sounds fun, right?
5. Cost-Effective
In many ATV tour packages, renting one double quad bike is cheaper than booking two single ATVs. This makes tandem riding a budget-friendly option, especially for couples or friends who don’t mind sharing the ride. You split the fun and the cost!
If you are traveling through Bali wanted to try an ATV ride but were on a tight budget. Booking one tandem ATV instead of two solo rides saved them money and gave you a hilarious, unforgettable jungle ride you couldn’t stop talking about.
Cons of the Double Quad Bike Experience
While riding a double quad bike is packed with excitement and shared moments, it’s not without its challenges. Like any adventure, tandem ATV riding comes with a few trade-offs that are worth considering before you hit the trail.
1. Less Individual Control
The biggest drawback? Only one person gets to drive. If both of you want the chance to steer, you’ll need to coordinate and possibly switch drivers midway. Some people might find it frustrating to sit on the back while someone else gets to do all the driving.
2. Weight Distribution Matters
A double quad bike handles differently than a single one. With two people on board, the weight increases, and how that weight is balanced matters a lot especially on steep slopes, sharp turns, or uneven ground. The driver needs to be more careful and adjust their steering and speed accordingly to keep control and avoid tipping.
3. Can Be Tiring for the Driver
Driving solo is one thing, but driving with extra weight and responsibility is another. On tough trails with hills and rocks, steering a heavier ATV with a passenger can require more upper body strength and endurance. Some drivers may find themselves getting tired faster, especially on longer rides.
4. Limited for Very Small Kids
Tandem quad bikes are awesome for families, but not for very young children. Most providers have age and weight restrictions, usually requiring passengers to be above a certain age (often 6-12+ years) and able to hold on tightly during the ride. Safety always comes first.
Tips for a Safe and Fun Tandem ATV Ride
Here are several advices to make your tandem quad bike adventure both safe and unforgettable:
1. Choose the Right Partner
This may sound simple, but who you ride with really matters. Choose someone you trust and feel comfortable communicating with. Whether it's calling out a sharp turn ahead or leaning together through a muddy slope, your ability to work as a unit can make or break the ride.
2. Follow the Weight Guidelines
Every ATV has a maximum weight capacity, and tandem bikes are no exception. Exceeding this limit can reduce stability, make the quad harder to steer, and increase the risk of tipping. Most reputable tour companies will inform you of these limits during booking.
If you’re unsure whether your combined weight is safe, always ask the tour operator beforehand. Following the rules ensures your ride is smooth and your bike handles as it should.
3. Switch Roles (If Allowed)
If both of you want to experience driving, check in advance if the tour allows mid-ride switching. Some adventure routes include rest stops where you can pull over safely and change roles.
But not all tour providers permit it, especially if terrain conditions are too dangerous or if the passenger doesn’t meet the driver age requirement.
But no need to worry if you book your ATV rides with Surya Bintang Adventures. During a jungle ride at Surya Bintang Adventures, some tandem riders switched drivers halfway through at a designated resting spot. It gave both people a chance to drive and enjoy the trail from both perspectives.
4. Coordinate Movements
The passenger plays a bigger role than most people think. It’s important to lean with the driver during sharp turns, uphill climbs, and bumpy paths. If the passenger stays stiff or leans the wrong way, it can cause the quad to lose balance, especially on uneven terrain.
5. Wear Safety Gear
Remember to always wear a helmet to protect your head in case of a fall or collision. Gloves improve grip on the handlebars and protect your hands from branches or debris. Sturdy shoes, preferably closed-toe, help keep your feet safe and stable on the footrests.
6. Start Slow, Then Go
If you’re new to ATVs, don’t rush into high-speed thrills right away. Start slow and get a feel for the vehicle, especially how it handles weight and reacts to the terrain. Understand the braking, acceleration, and turning before picking up the pace.
Many riders at Surya Bintang Adventures begin cautiously on flat areas. Once they’re comfortable, they enjoy the faster, muddier sections with confidence and way more fun!
7. Book with a Trusted Provider
The most important tip of all: choose a tour operator you can trust. Look for companies that prioritize safety, provide well-maintained equipment, and have trained guides who know the terrain. This is especially crucial when you're riding in natural environments with unpredictable obstacles.
For a more exciting trip, choose Surya Bintang Adventures! We offer a Thrilling ATV Ride package that takes you through a full natural jungle track—not a plain, flat concrete road like some other tours. What does that mean for you?
More Mud, More Fun: Splash through streams, climb hills, and zoom past towering trees.
Real Off-Road Terrain: No paved paths. You’ll face authentic jungle obstacles that make your ride unforgettable.
Epic Jungle Views: Ride under green canopies, past rice fields, and into nature’s hidden corners.
Top-Notch Equipment & Guides: High-quality ATVs, clean safety gear, and friendly guides who know how to keep things safe and super fun.
If you’re an adventure junkie or a curious beginner, this is the kind of adrenaline-packed experience you’ll want to tell everyone about.
Book Bali Off Road Quad Bike Today!
Ready to feel the thrill of mud, jungle, and adventure? Book your Bali off-road quad bike experience today and discover a side of the island you won’t see from the usual tourist spots.
Whether you're riding a solo ATV or double quad bike, remember to choose Surya Bintang Adventures, where expert guides, quality equipment, and real jungle trails come together to give you the safest and most exciting ATV ride in Bali. Let the adventure begin!
FAQ
Is it safe to ride a double quad bike?
Yes, as long as you follow the guide’s instructions, wear safety gear, and respect weight limits. Tandem ATVs are built for two, so they’re stable and reliable.
Can kids ride a double quad bike?
Most providers like Surya Bintang Adventures allow kids to ride as passengers if they meet the minimum age and weight requirements. Check in advance to be sure.
