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:

• stop the bike right now
• stop in the near future
• weight shift is forthcoming
• need food, water or restroom.

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?"

Communication Equipment

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.

Speed

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.

Passenger Participation

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.

Working and communicating together

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.

Tips for the rider carrying a passenger

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.