The Proper Care and Feeding of Passengers on a Motorcycle

Carrying a passenger on a motorcycle (aka: riding two-up) presents a special set of challenges to both the rider and the passenger. It is the rider's responsibility to see that the passenger is properly dressed, wearing necessary protective gear, and trained in the skills required of a passenger. The passenger's job is to do what the rider instructs. What follows is a list of tips that I have acquired from experience and research.

1. The passenger should not mount or dismount the motorcycle until the rider signals that it is okay. Mounting or dismounting the bike before the rider is ready can cause the rider to drop the bike and can lead to someone getting injured.

2. It is always a good idea for the rider to have the motorcycle running, in neutral, with the clutch lever pulled in, and both feet planted firmly on the ground before inviting the passenger to mount the bike. (The exception to this rule is some touring bikes where it is practical for the passenger to mount the bike first and then the rider.  Make sure the kickstand can bear the load before using this procedure.)

3. The passenger should always mount and dismount from the left side of the bike. Passengers should mount the bike by swinging their right leg over the saddle, putting their feet on the passenger pegs, and adjusting position for comfort. Shorter, lighter passengers should mount by putting their left foot on the left passenger foot peg, swinging their right leg over the saddle, putting their feet on the passenger pegs, and adjusting position for comfort. Dismount by reversing the procedure.

4. Passengers should position themselves on the passenger seat so that they are comfortable, yet not crowding the rider. Passengers who become uncomfortable during a ride should notify the rider and then wait for the rider's signal before shifting to a more comfortable position.

5. Passengers should keep both feet on the passenger pegs at all times, even when the motorcycle is at a stop. Passengers should not put their legs down to help steady, balance, or right the motorcycle. The rider is the only person who should control the operation of the bike both while it is in motion and when it is stopped.

6. Passengers should keep their feet and legs away from the exhaust pipes, chains, spokes, etc., unless they enjoy pain and the smell of burning flesh.

7. Unless the bike has a sissy bar and backrest, the passenger should hold on firmly, but not too tightly, to the driver. This will help prevent the passenger's falling off during accelerations.

8. The passenger should follow the body of the rider. If the rider stands on the pegs to ease a bump, the passenger should also. If the rider leans left or right during a turn or swerve, the passenger should follow suit. NEVER LEAN IN THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION OF THE RIDER.

9. Passengers should always look forward. Twisting and turning to see the sights can de-stabilize the bike. During turns, passengers should look over the rider's shoulder in the direction of the turn. For example, look over the rider's right shoulder during a right turn or the left shoulder during a left turn.

10. Children should not be allowed to ride as passengers unless they are tall enough for their feet to reach the passenger pegs and their arms can reach around the rider. Children should never ride on the gas tank in front of the rider. Children should always wear at least a three-quarter motorcycle helmet with a face mask. Bicycle helmets, glasses, and goggles do not provide sufficient protection.

11. It is the rider's responsibility to signal turns, lane changes, etc. Passengers should not signal other motorists or bikers. Passengers should keep their hands in (preferably around the rider's waist) to avoid hand gestures that may be construed as signals and to prevent injury.

12. Passengers should stay alert to road conditions and safety factors. Avoid reading, napping, etc. Passengers should avoid unnecessary movement or conversation. Riders should also signal passengers of potential hazards so that the passenger can prepare to respond properly.

13. Passengers can take an active role by serving as navigators. They can consult maps, look for streets and exits, etc., so that the rider can focus on operating the motorcycle.