The Pletcher is teh way to go hands down. I have owned 3 tandems and would not have a tandem without it. Reasonable judgement when tightening the stand will ensure it is secure but does not crush the frame. Tandems sometimes use heavier tubing so this may be less of a risk with a tandem. I have never seen a frame damaged from overtightening a kickstand but I guess it is possible. For our last tandem we ordered it with a kickstand plate for most secure mounting.