Riding with a passenger
With a passenger, the motorcycle is heavier, squats more at the rear, and requires more margin for braking, acceleration, and maneuvers.
A passenger changes how the motorcycle behaves
A passenger increases the total mass and the load on the rear of the motorcycle. The motorcycle accelerates more slowly and is harder to transition from side to side, while braking requires more energy to be dissipated. At low speed, it is noticeably harder to catch it with your foot if it starts to tip.
What to check on the motorcycle
- passenger footpegs, grab handles, and luggage mounts
- preload and, where available, suspension settings for the load
- tire pressure and maximum permitted load
- headlight position with a heavy load
The first kilometer
Ride more gently than usual for the first few minutes. Notice how braking, acceleration, turning, and low-speed balance have changed with this passenger.
Mounting and dismounting
The passenger should mount and dismount only after your signal, when you are already holding the motorcycle steady. On a slope or in a tight parking area, choose in advance a side and position that make the extra mass easier to hold.
Sources · 2
- Руководство по вождению мотоцикла
Подготовка пассажира и влияние дополнительной нагрузки; PDF: с. 42.
Used for: Arrangements with the passenger before mounting and setting off.
Open source - How to Check Your Tire Pressure
Check your tire pressure; FAQ
Used for: Tire-pressure settings for the additional load.
Open source
Before starting: what to tell the passenger
- mount and dismount only after your signal
- keep their feet on the passenger footpegs, including when stopped
- not touch the exhaust, chain, belt, wheel, or other hot or moving parts
- hold onto you, the standard grab handles, or other designated supports
- move smoothly; agree in advance on simple touch signals
In a turn
Before the ride, agree on how the passenger will move in a turn. The easiest option is to maintain a neutral posture and lean with the motorcycle. Another option is for the passenger to imagine being the rider's backpack and follow the rider's body movements, including when hanging off. Choose a method that works for both of you and avoid sudden movements once you are in the turn.
Acceleration and braking
When possible, warn the passenger before hard acceleration or braking. They should support themselves with their legs and knees and use the standard supports so they do not put their weight onto you during deceleration. This makes it easier for you to keep your arms relaxed.
A signal from the passenger
Agree in advance on a signal the passenger can use to ask you to stop, such as two taps on the shoulder. It should be clear while moving and distinct from an accidental touch. When the signal is given, the rider chooses a place to stop.
Sources · 1
- Руководство по вождению мотоцикла
Подготовка пассажира и влияние дополнительной нагрузки; PDF: с. 42.
Used for: Feet supported on the foot pegs and the passenger's coordinated movements.
Open source
Braking with a passenger
Start braking earlier and leave more distance. With a passenger, the rear wheel is more heavily loaded, so the rear brake may help more. During hard deceleration, the load still transfers forward. Because the total mass is greater, the brakes must dissipate more energy at the same speed.
Control
- use the throttle, clutch, and brakes more smoothly
- leave more room for low-speed maneuvers because the extra mass is harder to keep balanced
- account for suspension sag and reduced ground clearance
- warn the passenger before hard acceleration or braking
Passenger seating depends on the motorcycle
- sportbike or sport-touring bike: the passenger often sits higher and close to the rider, so their movements during acceleration and braking are more noticeable
- naked bike: usually a compact seating position close to the rider
- touring bike or maxi-scooter: a separate seat, backrest, and grab handles provide more support, but the passenger's movements still affect the motorcycle
- scooter: the position of the grab handles and foot supports depends on the model, so the passenger needs to get used to the seating position
Passing with a passenger
With a passenger, the motorcycle accelerates more slowly, so passing requires more time and clear space.
Sources · 1
- Руководство по вождению мотоцикла
Подготовка пассажира и влияние дополнительной нагрузки; PDF: с. 42.
Used for: How a passenger affects control, acceleration, and your choice of following distance.
Open source