When most people think about motorcycling, they imagine that it’s only exhilarating for the rider. However, even motorcycle passengers can experience the liberating feeling of the wind whipping past their faces. This also means that the inherent risks associated with bike riding affect riders and passengers alike.
Unlike cars, motorcycles offer no protective shell, making safety precautions essential for both riders and passengers. While much attention is given to the rider’s responsibilities, passengers also play a crucial role in helping to ensure a safe journey. Passengers, too, should follow best practices to reduce risks on the road.
Maintain proper posture and balance
A fidgeting passenger can unsettle the rider and cause the motorcycle to lose balance. To maintain balance, passengers should be aware of their posture and movements during a bike ride. Passengers should anchor themselves by using the bike’s grab handles or holding the rider’s waist. This helps maintain balance and minimizes the impact of shifting weight during the ride.
It also helps when the passenger follows the rider’s movements when cornering rather than leaning independently. Passengers should also anchor their feed and avoid dangling their legs, which can disrupt balance.
It’s also important for passengers to center their weight on the passenger seat and avoid sudden shifts in weight, which can make steering difficult. Additionally, passengers should always wait for the rider’s signal before getting on or off the motorcycle.
Communicate with the rider
Clear communication between the rider and the passenger is key to a safe ride. Before getting on the motorcycle, the biker and their passenger should establish basic signals for:
- Stop
- Slow down
- Emergency situations
Additionally, the passengers should anticipate sudden maneuvers, turns or stops and sift their body weights accordingly. Furthermore, if the passenger feels uneasy or unsafe, they should express their concerns to the rider before starting the journey. Even though they’re not the ones riding, passengers should watch for hazards and tap the rider if necessary.
By following these guidelines, motorcycle passengers can “enjoy the ride” while significantly reducing their risk of accidents and injuries. Safety should always come first—because every ride should be both thrilling and secure. However, should a biker and passenger experience an accident regardless, they can benefit from hands-on legal support to determine the at-fault party and seek compensation accordingly.