No Surprises
Prior to a ride as a passenger, especially if it's your first ride
with this rider, take a minute or two and ask the rider some questions. The
following should only be used as a guideline.
How do you want me to mount and dismount? Most riders will want you to mount
from the left after the engine is started and with the bike pointed in the
right direction. Dismounting will usually is from the left as well.
Does the rider want you to help with the hand signals? If so, cover the hand
signals together prior to your ride to ensure you're both talking the same
language.
Personal signals between the rider and the passenger need to be agreed upon. A
basic set should include:
How does the rider want you to hold on? Most riders will want you to hold on to
the rider waist. Holding on to any other parts like the belt, belt loops and
jacket may not be a good idea. These items can let you down when you need them
most and can interfere with the rider when control is needed the most; e.g.,
encountering a large unseen bump. Always, keep your feet on the pegs, even at a
stop. If you find the need to remove your feet from the pegs tell the rider
first.
The most important question a passenger should ask is. "What if any experience do you have riding this bike with a passenger?"
Intercoms are wonderful. They allow free concise communication between the
rider and passenger to warn one of upcoming situations, such as bumps. It also
enhances the enjoyment of the ride. As mentioned earlier,
have agreed upon hand signals even if you have an intercom.
At slow speed, the bike is more difficult to control and any weight changes can
have a more pronounced effect. High speed riding produces certain air pressure
conditions. As a passenger during high speed do not stick an arm or leg into
the air stream as this could change the dynamics of the ride.
When riding in formation with other bikes a passenger can pass signals back to
bikes behind freeing the rider to keep both hands on the bars. Passengers can
read maps and help navigate. As mentioned earlier, work these details out prior
to your ride.
Do not dismount until the rider says it's okay to do so. The bike may become
unsteady and the rider may not be able to keep the bike upright if you dismount
too soon.
Don't reach down to adjust a saddlebag without telling the rider first.
Don't try to take evasive action if you see a pothole or obstacle in the road
because your quick movement could cause the rider to swerve.
The passenger must never lean in the opposite direction in a turn to try to
counterbalance the bike so it won't fall over. This not
helpful.
Keep legs away from the muffler(s).
If you're going to adjust something, causing a perceived weight movement, have a predetermined signal like, three taps on the back.
A proper seat, large enough to hold both of you without crowding is suggested
not only for the safety value but also for the comfort value.
Foot pegs, a firm footing prevents your passenger from falling off and pulling
you off too.
Adjust the bike suspension and tire pressure if necessary (check your manual).
While your passenger is sitting on the bike with you, adjust the mirrors
according to the change in the motorcycle angle.
Start the engine before your passenger gets on the bike. Squeeze the front
brake while the passenger mounts and dismounts.
Tell your passenger to tighten their hold on you when approaching surface
problems or when starting from a stop.
A 400 pound motorcycle with a 150 pound rider and a 110 passenger creates a
vehicle where the passenger represents more than 15% of the vehicle total
weight. Even at the opposite extreme, an 800-pound motorcycle with a 220-pound
rider and a 120-pound passenger, the passenger represents 10% of the total vehicle
weight. When the motorcycle is at highway speed, weight shift of a few pounds
will cause the motorcycle to turn. At low speeds, the same weight shift could
cause the motorcycle to topple.
Only experienced riders should carry passengers. Carrying a passenger changes
the way the motorcycle handles. It affects balance in a straight line and when
turning, accelerating and braking. It is advisable that before taking a
passenger on the street, you should practice away from traffic.
Please don't try to impress your passenger with your skills or boldness. For a
new passenger the best experience will be a smooth relaxed ride with, No
Surprises.