Riding Double

Operator Preparation

1. Passengers should be considered as a second “active” rider so they can help ensure that safety and procedural operations are correctly followed.
2. A passenger will affect the handling characteristics of a motorcycle due to the extra weight and independent motion.
3. A passenger tends to move forward in quick stops and may “bump” your helmet with theirs.
4. Starting from a stop may require more throttle and clutch finesse.
5. Braking procedures may be affected. Braking sooner and/or with greater pressure may be required.
6. More weight over the rear tire may increase the usefulness and stopping power of the rear brake, especially in quick stop situations.
7. Riding on a downgrade will cause braking distance to increase.
8. Extra caution is called for in a corner because of the extra weight.
9. Cornering clearances may be affected
10. More time and space will be needed for passing.
11. The effects of wind, especially side wind, may be more pronounced.

Motorcycle Preparation

1. The motorcycle must be designed to accommodate a passenger.
2. The motorcycle owner’s manual should be reviewed for manufacturer’s tips about motorcycle setup as well as any related operational recommendations.
3. The motorcycle’s suspension and tire pressure may need adjustment.
4. Care should be taken to not exceed the weight limitations specified in the owner’s manual.

Passenger Preparation

1. Passengers should be tall enough to reach the footrests and mature enough to handle the responsibilities.
2. Passengers should wear proper protective gear
3. Passengers should receive a safety briefing (see #7 below).
4. Passengers should consider themselves a second operator and share responsibility for safety.

General Safety Consideration

1. You need to be experienced in the motorcycle’s operation and have a safety-oriented attitude before taking on the added responsibility of carrying a passenger.
2. Practice low-speed clutch/throttle control as well as normal and emergency braking in a low-risk area like an open parking lot, with a passenger.
3. Use caution in cornering and develop cornering skills over time to ensure passenger comfort and safety.
4. Use caution in corners as clearance may be affected.
5. Use a Search, Evaluate, Execute (S.E.E.) strategy to increase time and space safety margins.
6. Allow time for a passenger to adjust to the sense of speed and the sensation of leaning; speeds should conservatively safe and reasonable until a passenger acclimates to the proper riding techniques.
7. Ensure passengers follow safety procedures:
1. Complete personal protective gear is properly in use.
2. Hold operator’s waist or hips, or motorcycle’s passenger hand-holds provided.
3. Keep feet on footrests at all times, including while stopped.
4. Keep hands and feet away from hot or moving parts.
5. When in a corner, look over the operator’s shoulder in the direction of the corner.
6. Avoid turning around or making sudden moves that might affect operation.
7. If crossing an obstacle, stand on the pegs with the knees slightly bent and allow the legs to absorb the shock upon impact.
8. Allow more time for passing.
9. Be ready to counter the effects of wind.
10. Avoid extreme speeds and dramatic lean angles.
11. Be ready for a passenger “bump” with their helmet when stopping quickly.
12. Start the motorcycle before the passenger mounts.
13. Have the passenger mount after the motorcycle’s stand is raised and the motorcycle is securely braced.
14. Annually complete an ERC Skills Plus RiderCourseSM with a passenger.
15. Have frequent passengers complete a Basic RiderCourseSM so they can better understand the operator’s task.

Courtesy of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation