1. Equip and adjust your motorcycle to carry passengers:
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A proper seat—large enough to hold both of you without crowding. You (rider) should not sit any farther forward than you usually do. -
Footpegs for the passenger are required by law in Minnesota. A firm footing prevents your passenger from falling off and pulling you off, too. -
Adjust the suspension to handle the additional weight. Add a few pounds of pressure to the tires if necessary (check your owner’s manual.) -
While your passenger sits on the bike with you, adjust the mirrors according to the change in the motorcycle’s angle.
2. Even if your passenger is a motorcycle rider, provide complete instructions before you start. The passenger should:
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Mount the motorcycle after you have started the engine and have the bike pointed in the right direction. -
Squeeze the front brake while the passenger mounts and dismounts. -
Sit as far forward as possible without crowding you. -
Hold firmly to your waist, hips, or belt. -
Keep both feet on the pegs at all times, even when stopped. -
Keep legs away from the muffler(s). -
Remain directly behind you, looking over your shoulder in turns. -
Avoid unnecessary talk or movements when the bike is in motion.
3. Tell your passenger to tighten his or her hold when you:
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Approach surface problems. -
Are about to start from a stop. -
Warn him or her that you are going to make a sudden move.
4. Your motorcycle will respond differently with a passenger on board. The more weight you carry, the more effort it will take to slow down, speed up, or turn—especially on a lighter bike.
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Ride at a slower pace, especially when taking curves, corners, or bumps. -
Maintain a larger cushion of space from other vehicles. -
Wait for larger gaps to cross, enter, or merge into traffic. -
Take time to practice braking, accelerating, and turning with a passenger on board to develop the different skills you'll need at the controls.
5. Other tips:
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Start the engine before your passenger gets on the bike. Squeeze the front brake while the passenger mounts or dismounts. -
Don’t try to impress your passenger with your skills or daring. For a new passenger, the best experience will be a smooth, relaxed ride with few surprises.
