Before you go
- Check that your licence, insurance and local law allow a passenger, and any age limit for passengers.
- Check that the bike has proper passenger footpegs and a seat, and a handle or strap to hold on to.
- Make sure you feel confident with the bike on your own before you carry someone.
Gear for the passenger
A passenger needs the same protection as the rider: a helmet that fits, a jacket, gloves, trousers and boots. A passenger in sandals and a T-shirt is at much greater risk if something goes wrong.
Set up the bike
- Adjust the tyre pressure and the rear suspension for the load, following the owner’s manual.
- Check the headlight aim, because the bike sits lower at the back.
- Do not exceed the maximum load in the manual.
Brief the passenger
- Get on after the rider, once the engine is running and the bike is held steady, and get off the same way.
- Keep both feet on the pegs, even at stops until the rider says it is fine.
- Hold on to the rider’s hips or the handles, and keep looking over the rider’s shoulder in the direction of the turn.
- Lean with the rider and do not make sudden movements. Agree on a signal, like a tap on the shoulder, for “slow down” or “stop”.
Ride smoothly
- The bike feels heavier, accelerates more slowly and needs a longer distance to stop.
- Be gentle with the throttle, brakes and gear changes, because a passenger can bump helmets when you brake hard.
- Slow down for bumps and tell the passenger what is coming.
- Start with a short, easy ride to help your passenger feel comfortable.
This guide is general. Passenger rules differ by country, so check what is required where you ride.
Sources: Motorcycle Safety Foundation. Links do not imply that these organisations endorse MotoCircleX.