88 | SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2017GARAGE3.6.2.5.1.4.BRENDA WEAVERHOW TOPREP YOUR PASSENGER
BY KEN CONDON- Feet On The Pegs
Tell your pillion to sit still and keep his
or her feet on the pegs at all times. It
isn’t uncommon for passengers to think
they are helping to support the bike by
putting their feet down at stops, but this
can easily upset your balance.
5. Lean With Me
Passengers new to the backseat of a
motorcycle can freak out and counter
your steering efforts by sitting upright
in corners. To avoid the counter-leaning
problem, ask the passenger to lean with
you and look over your inside shoulder.
6. Communication
Verbal interaction can be nearly
impossible at speed. Hand signals
are okay, but if you regularly ride
with a passenger consider Bluetooth
communicators for the added convenience
and enjoyment it brings to two-up rides. - ATGATT
Insist on full protective gear for your
passenger. At minimum, this includes a
DOT-certifi ed helmet (preferably full-
faced), eye protection, sturdy pants and
jacket, full-coverage footwear, and gloves.
Don’t forget seasonally appropriate layers
to combat heat and wind chill.
2. Pre-Ride Briefing
Point out parts of the bike that can
burn or pinch if your friend is new
to motorcycles. Help them relax by
explaining that bikes must lean to
corner and that tires provide plenty
of grip. Then give them some pre-ride
instructions.
3. Hang On
Ask your passenger to pay attention to
what’s going on and to brace for braking
and acceleration by holding the grab
handles or your waist. It’s your job to
be smooth and avoid abrupt or extreme
starts or stops, but the passenger plays
a critical role in overall bike stability.
Riding with a passenger is a great way to share your love of motorcycling. Before you tell your friend or loved one to hop on the
back of your bike, however, it’s a good idea to educate your pillion partner on how to be a good passenger. Here are some tips to
ensure that the ride-sharing experience is awesome for both of you.MCY1017_HOW2.indd 88 7/20/17 11:37 AM