CARRYING PASSENGERS AND CARGO
Only experienced riders should carry passengers or large loads. The extra weight changes the way the motorcycle handles, balances, speeds up
and slows down. Before taking a passenger or a heavy load on the street, practice away from traffic.
EQUIPMENT
To carry passengers safely:
•
Equip and adjust
your motorcycle to carry passengers.
•
Instruct the passenger
before you start.
•
Adjust your riding
technique for the added weight.
Equipment should include:
•
A proper seat
— large enough to hold both of you without crowding. You should not sit any farther forward than you usually do.
•
Footpegs
— for the passenger. Firm footing prevents your passenger from falling off and pulling you off, too.
•
Protective equipment
—the same protective gear recommended for operators.
Adjust the suspension to handle the additional weight. You will probably need to add a few pounds of pressure to the tires if you carry a
passenger. (Check your owner’s manual for appropriate settings.) While your passenger sits on the seat with you, adjust the mirror and headlight
according to the change in the motorcycle’s angle.
INSTRUCTING PASSENGERS
Even if your passenger is a motorcycle rider, provide complete instructions before you start. Tell your passenger to:
•
Get on
the motorcycle only after you have started the engine.
•
Sit as far forward
as possible without crowding you.
•
Hold firmly
to your waist, hips or belt.
•
Keep both feet
on the pegs, even when stopped.
•
Keep legs away
from the muffler(s), chains or moving parts.
•
Stay directly behind you
, leaning as you lean.
•
Avoid unnecessary
talk or motion.
Also, tell your passenger to tighten his or her hold when you:
•
Approach
surface problems.
•
Are about to start
from a stop.
•
Warn that you
will make a sudden move.
RIDING WITH PASSENGERS
Your motorcycle will respond more slowly with a passenger on board. The heavier your
passenger, the longer it will take to slow down and speed up — especially on a light
motorcycle.
•
Ride a little slower
, especially when taking curves, corners or bumps.
•
Start slowing earlier
as you approach a stop.
•
Open up a larger cushion
of space ahead and to the sides.
•
Wait for larger gaps
to cross, enter or merge in traffic.
Warn your passenger of special conditions — when you will pull out, stop quickly, turn sharply or ride over a bump. Turn your head slightly to
make yourself understood, but keep your eyes on the road ahead.
CARRYING LOADS
Most motorcycles are not designed to carry much cargo. Small loads can be carried safely if positioned and fastened properly.
•
Keep the Load Low
—Fasten loads securely, or put them in saddlebags. Piling loads against a sissybar or frame on the back of the
seat raises the motorcycle’s center of gravity and disturbs its balance.
•
Keep the Load Forward
— Place the load over, or in front of, the rear axle. Tankbags keep loads forward, but use caution when
loading hard or sharp objects. Make sure the tankbag does not interfere with handlebars or controls. Mounting loads behind the rear
axle can affect how the motorcycle turns and brakes. It can also cause a wobble.
•
Distribute the Load Evenly
— Load saddlebags with about the same weight. An uneven load can
cause the motorcycle to drift to one side.
•
Secure the Load
—Fasten the load securely with elastic cords (bungee cords or nets). Elastic
cords with more than one attachment
point per side are more secure. A tight load won’t catch in
the wheel or chain, causing it to lock up and skid. Rope tends to stretch
and knots come
loose, permitting the load to shift or fall.
•
Check the Load
—Stop and check the load every so often to make sure it has not worked loose
or moved
.
GROUP RIDING
If you ride with others, do it in a way that promotes safety and doesn’t interfere with the flow of traffic.
KEEP THE GROUP SMALL
Small groups make it easier and safer for car drivers who need to get around them. A small number isn’t sep-
arated as easily by traffic or red lights. Riders won’t always be hurrying to catch up. If your group is larger
than four or five riders, divide it up into two or more smaller groups.
21
12
Test Yourself
Passengers should:
A. Lean as you lean.
B. Hold onto the motorcycle seat.
C. Sit as far back as possible.
D. Never hold onto you.
Answer - page 25
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