Carrying a Passenger on Your Motorcycle •Make sure the motorcycle is designed to carry a passenger. •If you decide to carry a child, make sure the child is mature enough to handle the responsibilities, can reach the footrests, wears a helmet and other protective gear, and holds onto you or the passenger hand-holds. •Keep in mind that some states have minimum age requirements for motorcycle passengers. •Instruct your passenger to keep his or her legs away from the muffler to avoid burns. •Instruct your passenger to limit movement and talking. •Remember that the extra weight from carrying a passenger can affect braking procedures, starting from a stop, and riding through a corner. •Exercise caution in quick stops, as a passenger can move forward and bump your helmet with theirs. •Passing will require more time and space. •The effects of the wind will be more distinct. •Review the motorcycle owner’s manual for tips on preparing for riding with a passenger. •Do not exceed the weight limitations specified in the manual. •Before riding, practice low-speed clutch/throttle control and normal and emergency braking in an open area, like a parking lot, with a passenger. •Allow the passenger time to adjust to the speed of riding and the feeling of leaning. •Make sure the passenger keeps all hands and feet away from hot or moving parts. •When in a corner, the passenger should look over the operator’s shoulder in the direction of the corner. •The passenger should not make any sudden movements or turns. •When crossing an obstacle, the passenger should stand on the motorcycle pegs with knees slightly bent, allowing the legs to absorb the shock upon impact. •The motorcycle should be started before the passenger mounts.
Posted on: Wed, 24 Jul 2013 10:45:41 +0000
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