To ride a motorcycle with an adult passenger safely we must consider some determining factors, especially since a motorcycle reacts differently when we carry a passenger than when we go alone. In today's post we tell you the main points to keep in mind when you carry 'package'.
1. Both the total weight of the motorcycle and its center of gravity change position with respect to when we ride alone, hence we have to consider the following:
- We will need more distance for both acceleration and braking.
- We must check how we have the wheels, paying special attention to the pressure and condition of the tires, complying with the manufacturer's instructions for full load.
- Fuel consumption will be higher, so if we go on a trip we will have to anticipate where the gas stations are located during our tour, if we do not want to deviate too much from the route.
- Check that your motorcycle is capable of moving that extra weight that the passenger supposes.
On the other hand, there are motorcycle models made especially for trips, with ergonomic and very comfortable seats, but if this is not the case, adding a backrest for your passenger would be a detail when making long distances.
3. Your passenger will appreciate that you indicate how you should get on the back of your motorcycle, especially if it is someone who has never done it before. The first thing: remind him that the exhaust pipe ‘burns’, and that the best option is to get on the motorcycle when you are already mounted and have both feet resting on the ground. You must raise one foot in the stirrup, straighten up and, when standing, pass the other leg over the motorcycle seat until you reach the other stirrup.
It is important to indicate that you must keep both feet in the stirrups also when we stop the motorcycle at a traffic light. With your support is enough.
4. There are several ways to hold on when you go as a passenger on a motorcycle. The safest is to be as close to the pilot as possible, so you will not move in the event of a sudden braking and the driver will avoid suffering blows in the back. As a reflex act the passenger will tend to hold on to the driver's waist, but the most reliable thing is to hold on to the motorcycle's handles, if not, his maneuverability will be limited.
The most important thing, however, is to explain to your companion that you should not move. Their movements must be agreed with yours, function as one on the road. Some rookies err in the curves, when leaning to the opposite side, but you must inform him before it is wise to remain still, following your movements naturally and smoothly.
5. Once underway it is complicated, if not impossible, to communicate with the passenger if you do not have an intercom, that is why it is so important to explain everything before you start the trip. In addition to being able to correct your posture or movements, motorcycle intercoms will allow you to have a normal conversation fluidly with both your passenger and other bikers who accompany you on the route.
If not, there is always the option to establish with your passenger a small code of gestures or taps, with which you can understand to warn of something, such as stopping the motorcycle or reducing speed.
6. Drive smoothly, without sudden gear changes, so that your companion does not suffer shaking and enjoy the experience as much as you. At the same time, stand firm, try not to bend over to avoid turbulence between the two, because if you do it your passenger will be more exposed and you will not do if it does not worsen the aerodynamics.
7. When it is time to get off the motorcycle, the passenger must also be clear on how to do so in order not to destabilize and suffer a fall. Explain to him that he must descend from the motorcycle in the same way he climbed, but vice versa. That is, once you have your feet on the ground, your companion should stand on the stirrups and pass one of the legs on the seat to get off the side where he climbed.
8. Remember also, before starting up, to have performed the proper maintenance of your motorcycle and check that you have all the documentation in order.
It is convenient, of course, to be a forecaster and prepare the route you are going to travel by collecting all the information possible to avoid surprises along the way.
Although we already know that you love to drive alone, following these recommendations, driving with a passenger can be a great experience for both of you, so, you know: forecast, head and routing!