HOW TO RIDE A MOTORCYCLE AS A PASSENGER

As a passenger, your gear matters just as much as the rider’s. You’re exposed to the same road, same speed, and the same risks. Dress accordingly:

• Helmet: DOT or ECE-certified, properly fitted

• Jacket & Pants: Durable, abrasion-resistant material (textile or leather)

• Gloves: Full-fingered with grip

• Footwear: Over-the-ankle boots or shoes

• Eye Protection: Especially critical on open-face helmets

Avoid loose scarves, backpacks, or accessories that could flap in the wind or snag on bike components.

You're not cargo, rather, you're a dynamic part of the ride. A good passenger moves in sync with the rider and maintains balance without interfering.

Before the ride:

• Know the bike's hot zones (exhaust, engine) to avoid burns.

• Ask where to hold on and where to place your feet.

• Check that you can comfortably reach the footpegs.

During the ride:

• Stay relaxed, alert, and aware of surroundings.

• Trust the rider, but also stay prepared.

Practice mounting and dismounting in a safe space before hitting the road.

• Always wait for the rider to give the signal to dismount safely.

• The rider should be seated, balanced, and have both feet planted for stability.

• Use footpegs to step up, but avoid grabbing the rider too forcefully.

• Dismount the same way, cautiously and only after the rider says it’s safe.

Balance yourself by sitting centered, avoiding abrupt movements, and staying aligned with the rider.

Turning:

• Don’t lean independently.

• Look over the rider’s inside shoulder during turns to stay aligned.

Stopping and Starting:

• Keep feet on the pegs at all times.

• Brace slightly at stops; lean forward gently during starts.

Bumps and Rough Roads:

• Lightly lift your weight using your legs ("seat to feet") to absorb shocks.

• Hold securely but don’t cling.

Motorcycles are loud. The wind is louder. If you don’t have a comm system:

• Agree on simple taps or squeezes:

  • One tap = "I’m okay"

  • Two taps = "Slow down or pull over"

  • Shoulder tap = "I need to talk"

• Listen for vocal cues before maneuvers: braking, accelerating, turning.

• Don’t make sudden moves, especially when stopped.

• Stay engaged. Look ahead, watch traffic, and be another set of eyes.

• Avoid distractions. No texting, filming, or waving while in motion.

• Limit conversation to essentials while the motorcycle is moving.

If you feel uncomfortable or unwell, speak up. Safety beats silence every time.

1. Lean with your rider, not against them. Let the motorcycle do the leaning.

2. Avoid shifting around at stops. Keep still until the rider gives the all-clear.

3. Use your legs to brace for bumps. It protects your spine and helps the rider maintain control.

Motorcycle riding is teamwork. A great passenger isn’t invisible, they’re invaluable. By gearing up properly, staying alert, and riding with intention, you make every two-up trip smoother, and more enjoyable.

When you're the passenger, you're not just along for the ride. You're part of the journey. Ride smart. Ride safe. Ride together.