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Knowledgeable passengers keep riding safe

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Greg Patterson
  • Shaw Motorcycle Riders Association director
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  Motorcycle riding isn't easy; if it were everybody would do it. But many wish to feel the thrill of the open road without having to master two wheels. A spouse, boyfriend or girlfriend or maybe even a stranger may be asked to go for a ride. But is the rider qualified to take on a passenger? 

According to safety officials, a good general rule of thumb to begin with is no rider should take a passenger out until they have at least six months of experience. 

Ninety-two percent of all motorcycle accidents involve untrained riders and more than 50 percent of the motorcycle accident-involved riders had less than five months' riding experience or less than 500 miles of motorcycle riding experience. The extra weight and added instability of a passenger can really tax the abilities of a driver who normally has no difficulties. Make sure they have the ability to handle a passenger without risking an accident that could hurt or kill both. 

Riders should get into the habit of briefing their passengers before a ride. 

Any movement from the passenger affects the track of the motorcycle. The passenger should "hug" the motorcycle firmly with legs and hold onto the driver to ensure no sliding and shifting around. Passengers should also keep their shoulders aligned with the driver's shoulders and shouldn't lean more or less than the driver. In a turn, the passenger should tilt his head just enough to see around the driver's head. Firmly holding onto the driver can keep the passenger's helmet from continuously smacking the back of the driver's helmet while accelerating or braking. 

Of course, if the trip you're going on is to a bar, just say "no." Fifty percent of all motorcycle fatalities involve alcohol, according to safety officials. 

Passengers need just as much personal protective equipment as the driver. 

Most motorcycle riders own the proper gear, but their passengers don't. Regular passengers should purchase their own gear. Helmet, eye protection, gloves, sturdy footwear, long pants and long shirt sleeves are all necessary items for passengers. If the gear is borrowed, make sure it is intended for riding a street bike. Off road helmets or "novelty helmets" are not sufficient and proper fit is crucial. If it is not a Department of Transportation or Snell approved helmet that fits properly, don't ride. 

Using common sense, paying attention and preparing for a ride can make the trip more enjoyable and it can also save a passenger from a ride in an ambulance.