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While motorcycling is primarily a solitary activity, there are times when riding two-up is a nice change of pace. Carrying a passenger can be a thrilling and pleasurable experience for both operator and pillion, but it can just as easily be uncomfortable, risky, stressful or downright dangerous. Following a few simple suggestions can go a long way towards insuring a successful outcome. I’ve given many a ride in my career, and have learned some very valuable lessons, both the hard way and from the experiences of others. 

This is my list of do’s and don’t. I’d like to hear from you, if you’ve got any to add. 

Motorcycle Passenger Rules (REQUIRED) 

1)     If you don’t trust or feel comfortable with someone, don’t ride with them. (As a minimum, insist on a valid motorcycle license and insurance. After that, motorcycle specific training, several years of experience and the desire to make your comfort their highest priority should seal the deal )

2)     Hold onto the operator, NOT hand holds, seat straps, grab rails, bodywork, etc. (The best way to hold the operator is with hands on the sides of the operator’s waist.  This allows grip during both accel and decel circumstances and it’s less intrusive than other positions)

3)     Mount and dismount ONLY when instructed by the operator to do so. (Failure to notify the operator is likely to result in a bike on it’s side and two people sprawled across the pavement)

4)     Keep your feet on the passenger footrests at all times. (Never let you feet dangle as they may get caught in the rear wheel or your leg burned on the exhaust pipe. Also, never try to dismount the motorcycle by putting your foot directly on the ground, it’s very difficult for most passengers to reach the ground from the passenger seat)

5)     Carry proper identification, medic alert info, extra cash and a CEL phone.

6)     Wear proper protective gear EVERY time you ride. 

Motorcycle Passenger Rules (SUGGESTED) 

1)     Look up! It reduces the feeling of speed. During turns, look over the inside shoulder of the operator. Stay directly behind the operator at all times. Never lean into or away from the turn.

2)     When a substantial bump is approaching, raise up just a little to let your legs absorb some of the impact.

3)     Don’t move around much, especially during critical situations like slowing/stopping, accelerating and turns. It makes the bike unstable and hard to control. If you need to move more than a few inches, tell the operator and get acknowledgement first.

4)     Try to anticipate deceleration (slowing/stopping) to keep your helmet from contacting the operator.

5)     Keep the chatter to a minimum. It’s a distraction. Only talk briefly and succinctly.

6)     Inform the operator immediately if you are uncomfortable and need to stop, especially if it’s their driving that’s making you nervous.

7)     Look around and enjoy the view, the smells and the feel of the wind. Notice the temperature subtly changes in different environments. Be glad you don’t have to pay as much attention to the road and can just enjoy the sensations. 

Motorcycle Operator Rules (REQUIRED) 

1)     Check tire pressure, and if necessary, add pressure to compensate for added weight.

2)     Check suspension settings and if necessary, increase preload for added weight.

3)     Check fuel quantity often and allow for decreased fuel mileage.

4)     Give first time passengers a briefing entailing your requirements and expectations. (And consider reminding even mutli-time passengers, especially if you are likely to encounter unique conditions such as inclement weather, bad road conditions or other unusual situations)

5)     Know that the performance of your motorcycle will be reduced. (Longer braking distances, longer acceleration distances and less precise handling will result from any additional loading. Also, your rear brake can be more effective with a passenger supplying additional force over the rear contact patch. Unexpected wheelies can manifest under hard acceleration)

6)     Tell your passenger when you are ready for them to mount/dismount the motorcycle.

7)     Have a plan and let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.

     Carry all proper documents (license, registration and insurance) as well as medical conditions, allergies and emergency contact information. 

Motorcycle Operator Rules (SUGGESTED) 

1)     You can’t ride as far two-up, don’t try, you’ll both be miserable. (You will both have a lot less room to move around. You won’t realize this until you are locked into one position for a few hours.) 

2)     Develop a sign language for basic communication. (Have simple gestures or touches that indicate the need to stop, slow down, go to the bathroom, get food, get water, take a photo, etc.)

3)     Be attentive, if your passenger is in need, it your job to accommodate them since they have no control.

4)     Relax your pace, give yourself more reaction time to compensate for performance degradation.

5)     Ride in such a manner as to minimize G-forces. This makes it easier for your passenger to feel stable and safe. 

The happier your passenger, the more likely you’ll be offered another chance to share the experience again. I can always tell when I’ve given a good ride. My passenger asks for another! 

Rhino