There is more to riding a motorcycle than appears, and the same goes for being a passenger on a motorcycle. Commonly termed “two-up”, riding with a passenger is fun but it does change the dynamics of how the motorcycle handles. To help make your ride smooth and stress free, here are some tips to help you be a good motorcycle passenger.

1. Be an extra pair of eyes for the rider. Watch for vehicles, road hazards, animals, children, etc.
2. Always let your rider know you are mounting and dismounting. Otherwise, they may not be prepared for the extra weight or sway of the motorcycle.
3. Ask what side they want you to mount from and when they want you to mount, before or after them. Most people mount from the left hand side.
4. Work out how you will let them know you want them to stop.
5. If there is no backrest, you may have to hold onto the rider. Make sure this is okay and find out how they want you to do this.
6. When going around curves, lean the way the motorcycle is leaning and the rider. Staying poker straight when going around curves will make it difficult for your rider to navigate the turn.
7. Keep feet firmly anchored on pegs. Do not sway your legs back and forth.
8. Do not fidget and sway back and forth.
9. Be aware for sudden stops that could have you bumping into the rider or bumping helmets. If the motorcycle has grab bars, you can take some of the force of the stop off by holding on to them.
10. Dress in the proper riding gear. Just because you aren’t the driver doesn’t mean it is safe for you to wear improper riding gear. For example, some passengers wear spike heels which if they have put their feet down, provide no traction or support.
11. Understand the rules of the road and stay calm while on the back of the motorcycle. If you are planning to ride as a passenger, a great gift to yourself is to take a motorcycle safety course so that you understand what it takes to ride a motorcycle.

Until next week, ride safe.

Nancy