Apollo Syncro 700 2021: Timing Cranks and Rear Gears Explained
The Apollo Syncro 700 in the Australian 2021 catalogue has timing cranks as well as a rear triple chainset. These are different parts of its tandem drivetrain. Reading both entries helps an owner describe a service question accurately, instead of treating every chainring or bottom bracket on the bicycle as one interchangeable component.
Apollo Syncro 700 has two crank descriptions
The timing-crank entry specifies 3/32 × 39T and 170 mm alloy cranks. The rear crankset is separately listed as 44/32/22T. The timing arrangement links the two pedalling stations, while the rear triple works with the selectable rear gearing. A request for a tandem chainring needs to say which location is meant.
Apollo lists a nine-speed 11–32 cassette, Altus shifters and a rear RD-T4000 derailleur. Its three-by-nine headline describes the rear selectable gearing layout, not a statement that the timing ring supplies another set of selectable ratios.
The bottom brackets have separate roles
The frame description names an eccentric bottom bracket, and the detailed bottom-bracket row distinguishes front eccentric from rear sealed cartridge. That is more precise than a generic request for a Syncro bottom bracket. Record which station needs attention and the markings on the installed assembly.
The catalogue does not give an eccentric adjustment sequence, chain-tension figure or replacement bearing dimensions. Do not borrow those from an unrelated singlespeed bicycle merely because it also has an eccentric. An unfamiliar assembly requires its own instructions and a competent assessment before any adjustment.
Fit and braking still concern the complete tandem
The front and rear bars are each listed at 600 mm, but their stem arrangements differ. The rear stem has a stated 155–200 mm length adjustment, while the front is listed at 100 mm. That helps identify the cockpit hardware without guaranteeing suitable positions for every pair of riders.
The table names Tektro MD-M500 mechanical disc brakes with 160 mm rotors, 700c wheels and 700 × 40c tyres. It gives no combined-rider or luggage load limit. Neither two saddles nor the rotor entry supplies the missing capacity or an approved carrying arrangement.
For a workshop enquiry, distinguish the timing system, rear gearing and the specific attachment under discussion. The Apollo directory keeps this tandem record separate from single-rider models. Its Australian brand introduction provides context rather than a substitute tandem manual.
FAQ
Is the 39T timing ring the same entry as the rear triple?
No. The catalogue separately identifies the timing cranks and the 44/32/22T rear crankset.
Are front and rear bottom brackets described identically?
No. The source distinguishes a front eccentric assembly from a rear sealed-cartridge entry.
Does this page establish a combined rider-weight limit?
No. Obtain the applicable capacity and operating information for the actual tandem.
Sources
Checked 30 October 2026.
Australian 2021 catalogue, page 88 (https://www.apollobikes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/apollo_2021_complete_web.pdf).
Photo-family identity: 2024 catalogue, page 89 (https://www.apollobikes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/apollo_2024_catalogue_web.pdf).
Photograph credits and permissions
Photograph 1
Original title: Pink Apollo
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License / permission: CC BY-SA 2.0
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