Before you are ready to have a passenger, be sure to first practice with someone whom you wouldn't care too much if they got hurt, like an ex, a telemarketer or your mother in law
The last comment about not trying to impress the passenger is an easy trap to fall in. When I was younger, I had a strict rule of No Passengers, and a strict exception if the passenger was attractive. I had to consciously remind myself that the goal wasn’t to impress them, but to get a “second date” and not scare them off. That worked way better than giving them a lecture about leaning and body position so I could ride fast in the canyons and scare them anyway.
lol at the exception if the passenger is attractive. Do you keep a female sized set of full gear to loan out to your dates? I've never ridden with passenger and, frankly, I agree with you completely, as I would make a rule that I don't ride two up, but I do fantasize riding two up with my crush. I've been wondering if it's in my budget and worth it to buy my girl full gear that she might only use a few times.
@@__Razer I'm not a big guy at 5'8", so my jackets could usually fit a female passenger, if a little baggy. If you have any interest in being ready for a passenger, having a second helmet is clutch, though. I was able to borrow a spare from a friend the first request, but I ended up buying a second helmet, since I had a couple of classmates that wanted to try out the pillion. Investing $150 or so in a good spare (like a Scorpion EXOR420) so you don't have to say no to that attractive classmate is worth it IMHO. If you think you'll get at least a few uses, it's not that much more than a few dates out, if you think of it that way.
@@__Razer do it my friend :) me and my girlfriend have been together for 1 year she use one of my old helmets and gloves so that cost nothing for me and we made a deal i bought her a jacket and she bought the pants and found some boots on sale for 750 dkk thats 110 dollers the jacket was 3000dkk thats 443 dollers and we have been riding alot she loves it even tho i ride and s1000rr
Im 5’9 and 170lbs and bought all my first set of gear and bought a size small helmet for girls. But a lot of girls wore size medium surprisingly That I kept my old jacket and helmet and gloves when I replaced it and use it for girls. It’s a tad baggy but works
I do remember taking a gf for a ride, she said not too fast, but it was a 900 Kawasaki KZ. Took it up to at least 80 mph. She didn't like it, burred her head in my back. Oh well.
I get many comments from friends on how smoothly I ride solo regardless of the pace... I put it down to many years of almost always riding 2 up with either my wife or step-daughter. I found for new pillions to keep it simple - - look over the turn direction shoulder - acceleration - toes down - braking - heels down - I'll tap your leg to hang on tight - You tap if you want to stop/ talk. A friend made me a small sticker for the back of my helmet that said "Just scream if you want to go faster" 🤣🤣🤣
The biggest conscious change I make in my riding style is an extraordinarily long braking distance, particularly on any decline. Even with hefty rear brake application (as you mentioned) there is a lot of weight shifting over the front end on steeper hills.
Biggest learning curve when first starting to ride with a pillion. Luckily my wife after two years had enough of riding on the back and we got her her own bike to ride now
Yeah, you need engine braking+rear. If you only rely on your front just like when you're solo you'll exert more brake force to stop which would make your motorcycle dive and your passenger to push you forward
Hhmmm, "bike choice" at 4:20, made me remember my first ever motorcycle when I was 16 - 50cc Jawa, double seater. and giving rides to a neighbor girl.. Never forget her "DD" in my back! Cheers..
I introduced may daughter to riding after she started driving and wished to . Our first rides were safe and within her limits. She became an awesome pillion where our confidence grew to a point I could ride with a bit of pep knowing she was enjoying the experience . She is now learning on her own MT03.
That ending comment was so awesome! The honor of introducing someone to riding a motorcycle 😊 it truly is that important 😅 and an extremely huge responsibility. I'm so proud to be someone who gets to ride a motorcycle almost daily. Pure joy these machines!
I just introduced my friend into the two-wheeled world by hopping on the back of one of the rental mopeds in SF. I explained to her the do’s and don’ts as a passenger. She understood everything very quickly, but she was a little still scared at first. But we went for another ride around the city she had a blast! She’s definitely considering taking a class and getting a scooter for herself!
When I was younger, I took a passenger out on a date to a beach some 100km away. In the middle of the ride we decided to take a route thru some sand dunes that were reasonably ok to ride (I guessed). I got exited and ended up doing 75KPH on a long descent with her on the back. We never went out again.
Great tips. We ride 2 up most of the time & have always enjoyed the rides. I would like to add 1 additional tip, make a habit of pulling the front brakes firmly while your passenger is mounting. This add more stability (with both feet on the ground of course) and you won't get caught rolling at some unexpected inclines.
After 30+ years of riding with my wife on back of everything from a 86 GSXR to a Fjr 1300 I've developed 2 distinct riding styles . Solo and 2 up and heaven forbid I ever ride solo with her on back ! Always put the joy and comfort of your passenger first , you'll be rewarded in the long run .
Same for me, my body have 2 mode when riding which is solo and duo and will automatically adjust whenever i have/not have passenger (usually wife or sister). During duo ride i always told them to just relax and always go on a comfortable speed, but whenever i need to speed up i told them beforehand and if they don't comfortable with it then i won't do it
I remember taking my brother for a 5min ride to his work. We didn't go above 30km/h. He couldn't stop talking about how much fun it was to lean and how fast it felt 🤣
Good video, the only thing I want to mention is holding on by the shoulders. This could be a bad idea if you hit a bump or something and could cause the passenger to pull back on the rider's shoulder, and accidentally pulling more throttle.
Exactly, if I ride with an "inexperienced" passenger, I always tell them to hold on to my hips or torso, or the grab handles on the bike, but to never grab my shoulders or my arms, since that may cause unwanted steering inputs.
I've always just told passengers to keep their arms and hands "...anywhere UNDER my arms... such that you feel comfortable and can hold on securely"... Had a buddy who liked scaring girls in high school on the back of his bike... It was mostly fun and funny as hell... Until one that was holding onto his shoulders "freaked out" and ended up locking her arms around his NECK... As luck would have it, he got it stopped and in a few minutes we were all back to laughing (nearly hysterical) again, including the girl... BUT that could have been SOOOoooo bad... ...SO I've just been fairly strict about "below my arms"... I don't really care where or how exactly... wrap around me like a bear-hug,... clench fists into the folds or whatever of my jacket... latch onto the "oh-sh*t" handles on the sides of the bike... whatever floats your boat... Just as long as my arms are free to control the bike, and you're NOT tangling up my neck in a choke-hold... I don't need to pass out, and we BOTH don't really need to die. ;o)
Man I started riding after a friend took me for a pillion ride on his motorcycle. The same day I bought it off him. Haven't let go of the throttle since. I understand the deep value of giving a motorcycle ride to an associate or friend. Ride safe fellas!
All good points. I also let them know that if they need to adjust their position, they can, as long as they give me a sign and do it when the bike is in a straight flat and nice tarmac or at red lights or stop signs.
i found that they can dance on the back for all you care as long as you are riding. at slow speeds like 10kph or at a red light its better to sit still.
A system I found that works well (if you don’t have BT comms) is telling the pillion to tap my thigh if they need to stop. With a new passenger, sometimes they freak out or just have a gear issue. A dedicated way of getting my attention, at speed, that wouldn’t normally happen (none of my classmates were grabbing my thigh normally) was really helpful.
Another tip is to put a top case on your bike. I know, it might ruin your bike's aesthetic, but the passenger will have something to rest against to. Furthermore, it gives them confidence that they likelihood of flying off the seat is considerably reduced. Plus, they have a small place to put their purse or bags. Excellent video as always Ari!
Been riding with a passenger pretty much ever since I started riding 20 years ago... but I still clicked. The shop manual is just that good! Always something helpful.
I would also add that putting a little bit of upward pressure on the shift lever prior to actually shifting makes the ride a lot smoother. Prevents jerkiness and bumped helmets.
My tip for riding two up is always do everything a few seconds earlier. Like braking for instance. The first thing that I remember noticing was the amount of extra inertia caused by my pillion.
Today I rode with a passenger for the first time... for a triathlon event.. we were the race marshall. 😅 I didn't wreck in front of everyone and it went great. Just followed the tips in this video. Used lots of back brake, played it very very easy with the clutch with long slow accelerations, and just told them to act like a rock on the back and not lean or do any sudden movements. It went great!
I think the most important thing is explaining how the passenger has control over the bike by shifting their weight and so it's important they remain in line with the bike. I always explain it like "If I lean right, and you lean left, we go straight" lol
My pillion constantly hated riding on my old naked bike, but since I got a fancy ADV with electronic suspension both myself and passenger are happy to crush miles. Best bike change decision ever!
Longer breaking distance while 2-up - false if the breaks are ok. You just have to apply breaks stronger and faster to achieve the same distance as you do solo
I always tell my passenger the phrase "always lean with me, keep your chest in line with mine and the ride is smoother." It's all about keeping their center of gravity aligned with your own.
I always tell them to put their head on the same side of mine that coincides with the direction we’re turning. A little thing but it subconsciously helps distribute weight and body position a lot.
Fortnine has a video about riding with a passenger. He actually advises the passenger NOT lean with the driver, but remain as straight up as possible, if I remember correctly.
@@DR4WZ also recall its all relative to your speed. Speed determines everything, lean angle, body position, brake pressure, etc. His video on counter-leaning the bike vs. leaning with the bike might’ve mentioned this also.
@@BlueDevilMoto it's been quite a while since I've watched the one about riding with a passenger, so I may have to rewatch. Him saying it's better for the passenger to remain straight is just what sticks in my mind. It may have been more nuanced than that though...
I rewatched the fortnine video and it seems I was incorrect in my recollection. It really doesn't say passengers should remain straight up, he actually said passengers afraid of moving can be a bad thing. I stand corrected. He does mention for the passengers chest to follow the riders back. Seems this is closer to the original statements others made. Just wanted to correct myself and not spread bad or potentially dangerous information...
Great tips. I've taken the nephew on a short blat and he loved it. I'm going to get an appropriate skid lid and gear. My sister and her hubby was surprisingly ok with it
First ride wit a passenger ended after 3 minutes in an accident…not my fault. After 2 weeks of pain with a broken arm she asked me when i will get a new bike (first one was totaled) 5 months later i recovered an she jumped with me in my new bike :) And all the tips you gave are worth all the gold on earth. Thanks for the good content
Great video. All good information. I always ride like I'm in rain when I have a passenger on the back.....and when it rains I ride like I'm in snow. This is the first time I came across someone that actually says just that. This is a good video to not only watch, but have a new passenger watch as well. I could not have said it better ! Barry
Don't forget that the rear preload adjustment on some bikes (especially older ones) is air pressure. A manual bike pump is a good choice for adjusting these, as the max pressure is usually still pretty low, and the volume is also much lower than a tire, so it can be easy to over pressurize and blow out a shock by just using your regular air compressor set to 100psi.
When I did my driving school we had our instructor sitting behind as a passenger. It wasn't easy as me 14 year old carrying 100+ kg heavy person. It took some practice before going out of the yard into the town
I ride a KTM RC 390 and I have taken 2 girls on the back 😅 didn’t adjust the suspension. I did have them wear proper gear tho and told them how to get on and off and how to hold me. I find it more fun riding solo tho it can be stressful with a passenger
Very informative! The first time I rode as a pillion with someone else than my Dad or brother almost killed me 😂 Like the guy was doing 70kph on city traffics! After that incident I don't ride as a pillion with someone else than the most trusted people. I always make my pillion wear necessary gears and I try to ride at an even slower pace than usual :)
The note about responsibility is key. When you take a passenger, you are potentially accepting responsibility for their life and limb. It pays to take a moment to consider that. And just as well, you should talk over the risks of motorcycle riding with any passenger you take. Let them know what might happen, what things are dangerous, and make a plan together on how you together want to handle those risks. And always, always stick to that plan. And finally: Never talk someone into riding by saying it's totally safe. Have an honest, risk aware discussion about it.
okay here's a quick tip, go eeexxtreemmllyy easy on the throttle and breaks cuz us riders dont feel the jerking as much becuz we're expecting it and have handle bars to hold on to, the passenger on the other hand will feel every single bump and jerk
My wife and I started two up on a sportster. I felt every little thing she did. We bought a road glide special last year. Now I have to reach back and touch her leg to make sure she is still there. It’s fantastic two up on bigger bikes. Way more forgiving.
My first time on a bike was being the passenger on a panigale 1299. My entire neck and back started hurting after 30 minutes, even though we weren't going fast or anything.
One thing I would add is that if possible, go for a ride as a passenger. It makes world of a difference understanding how the pillion feels when riding with you.
My introduction to motorcycles was a pillion ride, but I was quite young, a bit more recent was trying out some of my cousins' toys up north, like a 100ish CC Dirt Bike for kids (Could still haul my 200lbs self just fine) and riding a Yamaha 250cc Supermoto illegally around a small subdivision, two awesome experiences that I will remember forever
Bravo. I whole heatedly agree with this advice. I was surprised how quickly my 8 year old daughter picked up how to be a good pillion passenger. Give them the low down on what to expect and go easy.
In my country we 15 year Olds get licenses for 50cc bikes, great machines to learn two up riding. About 120km of experience w/a friend, definitely a great idea to start with a slower bike imo (unless you already have a lot of experience)
Did it for the first time yesterday. She was definitely more nervous than me, judging by the deathgrip she had around my waist at the start. But it got to the point where she was barely holding on at all. Just ride slow and smooth. You can throw in some speed later on.
Ok I've been waiting for this video from you guys a lot, but I gotta say I'm most definitely surprised that you guys showed an Italika ft125 I'm like wtf? , I'm from Mexico and that's one of the most seen delivery bikes around, enough of that, thanks for the awesome job explain and giving recommendations 👍🏻
Well presented. When I take a passenger, whether for the first or hundredth time, I consider my role to be an ambassador to the world of motorcycling. Everything I do for my passengers you have covered here. Thanks for sharing!
Where did you get that Italika?! And why do you have one?😆 I’m from Mexico and we obviously see them everywhere, but I didn’t know you could get them in the US. Gracias por el video!!
I don’t know about you guys but in My country you have to carry a passenger ( your instructor) in order to get your motorcycle license. Anyway good advices as always…big fan of the show - you and Zack were the reason that I subscribed on motortrend on demand. Left it when you guys left.
This sounds hilarious, but also dangerous. In my country the instructor rides/drives behind you on a bike or in a car. They talk to you with a radio (you can't talk back). The examinator will do the same and drive behind you and give you instructions.
@@Knakkerman- makes sense. But here in my country we learn how to ride the bike with the instructor in the back. So…at the exam, riding with the instructor is not a problem. The police officer is following you and communicate with the instructor on your bike.
@Av. Nedelcu ok let me get this straight. You have an instructor in the back that talks to you, but when you are doing your rider test there is also a police officer riding/driving behind you?! This sounds like an extremely inefficient and expensive way of learning to ride a bike.
@@Knakkerman- But wait, there s more! There is the instructor on your back and a car with another instructor and the police man. The procedure is: the policeman gives instructions to the instructor in the car and that instructor communicate with the instructor on the motorcycle and this one tells you . So… there you go
A part of speed consideration with a passenger is the stability of the motorcycle. Low-speed performance is more adversely affected by the added weight. So can’t be all, or even mostly, about “impressing the passenger.”
I've given a lot of people their first rides on a motorcycle. Every single one of them has asked for a repeat! I've never scared them away! I tend to ride very VERY carefully when I have a passenger. However once I went on a group ride in Utah and two of the guys on fast sportbikes had passengers. When we stopped at a gas station, the girls were discussing getting an Uber home because they were scared. One of them said she tried, but there was no signal where we were.
03:30 and if the rider isnt tall enough to plant both feet on the ground before the passenger hops on, is there any particular side that should be more planted than the other?
lol, the last time I took my friend as a pillion on a 500km ride, all I did was asked the mechanic if the bike will run for 500km. He said, changing the engine fluid and increasing tire pressure will do the job. It ran, we were going at 90kmph+ on Nepal's narrow windy roads. It was a blast.
The steering geometry change really does take some getting used to with a passenger. So keep that in mind if you're not experienced having somebody on the back. It will make your bike feel totally different.
I introduced a girl to motorcycling over 40 years ago. I guess I didn't scare her because she married me anyway. We're still married. Not riding anymore because old bones don't belong on a bike.
Great tips. I only dislike the suggestion of the passenger grabbing the rider's shoulders as I believe it can lead to poor handling and even a crash. I always ask my pillions to grab either the handles on the side of my motorcycle or my thighs as it doesn't produce interference with handling. Cheers Ari
try riding smooth on a mt 07 with extra holes in stock exaust with no tune the throttle is on or of on that thing and its not my first bike been riding for 7 years so yes i can ride smooth and i did not make those holes in the exaust i got it like that need to close them for more torqeu
How do you manage riders as pillions? I often notice pillions who also ride - subconsciously shift body weight, squeeze your hip (mimicing a tank hold) or even move feet applying break. As their breaking lean angels riding style might be different to yours.
That last comment though. Picked up my then new boyfriend during rush hour in DC. Me just normally riding through traffic almost ended it right there. Thankfully he trusted me again and I learned real quick that it’s more terrifying for a passenger fitting through tiny places between regular cars and delivery trucks.
Enter to win a free Kershaw pocket knife here: a.pgtb.me/W6wfPG Check out Ari’s full article on Common Tread about riding with a passenger! rvz.la/3dtLv7b
Ari, is it possible to do an episode on spark plugs? My dealer here in Singapore decided to put a non-Iridium spark plug in my Suzuki, when the specific documentation from Suzuki says it should using an Iridium spark plug, and the Suzuki parts manual, and even NGK's catalog all point to using Iridium plugs. your episode on fuel octanes was really good, and i've been sharing that info too. thank you!
My cousins and I learned to ride by taking turns riding two-up with each other on my uncle's raggedy old 125cc in shorts while we coached each other. His drum brakes barely work, the rear brake stops about as hard as blowing air out of your mouth and his carb runs so rich, it pops and crackles every time you let off the throttle. Speaking of throttle, his throttle was so tight, we had to squeeze to turn it. And his clutch was dead from start to like 2/3rds if the way with a couple millimeters between nothing and full bite. Our arms were aching by the end of the days and our butts were sore from the awful vibration, but we learned a lot and it was hella fun. Now, riding alone feels like riding a bicycle because there's so little weight and the bike likes to go so readily.
I set the bike to "rain" mode which softens it. I also have a thigh pat code - I pat them once and the reply for OK is two on me - anything other I pull over and ask. No comms for me - riding is not about talking.
Things I’ve picked up over the years with my wife on the back. Easy on the braking so she doesn’t hit the back of my helmet or squish up on me. Before I leave at a green light or if I have to give it the beans I squeeze her arms with my elbow. If at a light will also give it a little blip of the throttle before pulling away so she knows I’m about to pull away. She also doesn’t like the far lean in some corners so I just take It easy. In the very beginning we had the talk of lean when I lean and don’t look all Over with out warning me first. Currently I have an 02 monster 750Sie. Two up isn’t bad. Wasn’t as nice on my 94 Fzr 600
Before you are ready to have a passenger, be sure to first practice with someone whom you wouldn't care too much if they got hurt, like an ex, a telemarketer or your mother in law
😂😂😂😂😂
Best comment. 😂
Golddddd 🏆
OR, get someone who KNOWS how to be a pillion. Then get someone inexperienced
i will try it, thanks 🤣🤣
"Pretend like it's raining" That's a great way to describe the mental frame of mind that the driver should have. Perfectly said!
In my case, I learned with my wife on the back of a Benelli BN125 on a rainy day in Portugal.
It’s legit a good way to think of it.
The last comment about not trying to impress the passenger is an easy trap to fall in. When I was younger, I had a strict rule of No Passengers, and a strict exception if the passenger was attractive. I had to consciously remind myself that the goal wasn’t to impress them, but to get a “second date” and not scare them off. That worked way better than giving them a lecture about leaning and body position so I could ride fast in the canyons and scare them anyway.
lol at the exception if the passenger is attractive. Do you keep a female sized set of full gear to loan out to your dates?
I've never ridden with passenger and, frankly, I agree with you completely, as I would make a rule that I don't ride two up, but I do fantasize riding two up with my crush. I've been wondering if it's in my budget and worth it to buy my girl full gear that she might only use a few times.
@@__Razer I'm not a big guy at 5'8", so my jackets could usually fit a female passenger, if a little baggy. If you have any interest in being ready for a passenger, having a second helmet is clutch, though. I was able to borrow a spare from a friend the first request, but I ended up buying a second helmet, since I had a couple of classmates that wanted to try out the pillion. Investing $150 or so in a good spare (like a Scorpion EXOR420) so you don't have to say no to that attractive classmate is worth it IMHO. If you think you'll get at least a few uses, it's not that much more than a few dates out, if you think of it that way.
@@__Razer do it my friend :) me and my girlfriend have been together for 1 year she use one of my old helmets and gloves so that cost nothing for me and we made a deal i bought her a jacket and she bought the pants and found some boots on sale for 750 dkk thats 110 dollers the jacket was 3000dkk thats 443 dollers and we have been riding alot she loves it even tho i ride and s1000rr
Im 5’9 and 170lbs and bought all my first set of gear and bought a size small helmet for girls. But a lot of girls wore size medium surprisingly That I kept my old jacket and helmet and gloves when I replaced it and use it for girls. It’s a tad baggy but works
I do remember taking a gf for a ride, she said not too fast, but it was a 900 Kawasaki KZ. Took it up to at least 80 mph. She didn't like it, burred her head in my back. Oh well.
I get many comments from friends on how smoothly I ride solo regardless of the pace...
I put it down to many years of almost always riding 2 up with either my wife or step-daughter.
I found for new pillions to keep it simple -
- look over the turn direction shoulder
- acceleration - toes down
- braking - heels down
- I'll tap your leg to hang on tight
- You tap if you want to stop/ talk.
A friend made me a small sticker for the back of my helmet that said "Just scream if you want to go faster" 🤣🤣🤣
🤣🤣🤣🤣
The biggest conscious change I make in my riding style is an extraordinarily long braking distance, particularly on any decline. Even with hefty rear brake application (as you mentioned) there is a lot of weight shifting over the front end on steeper hills.
Biggest learning curve when first starting to ride with a pillion. Luckily my wife after two years had enough of riding on the back and we got her her own bike to ride now
Doubly so when I weigh as much as most people 2 up lol.
Yeah, you need engine braking+rear. If you only rely on your front just like when you're solo you'll exert more brake force to stop which would make your motorcycle dive and your passenger to push you forward
i just take longer to brake so there helmet does not smash into the back of mine
4:52 A moment of appreciation for my GF that did 2.5k tours for 2 years with me on the back of a CBR. We're getting a sports tourer soon!
bro how small was she to go thru something like that
@@iam_kuz 5'9 - we're engaged now, keeper vibes from that alone
@@Valks-22 jeez man
She's a trooper 🫡
That tip at the end. Ride like it's raining, man what a lovely piece of advice. Thanks m8!
Hhmmm, "bike choice" at 4:20, made me remember my first ever motorcycle when I was 16 - 50cc Jawa, double seater. and giving rides to a neighbor girl.. Never forget her "DD" in my back! Cheers..
I introduced may daughter to riding after she started driving and wished to . Our first rides were safe and within her limits. She became an awesome pillion where our confidence grew to a point I could ride with a bit of pep knowing she was enjoying the experience . She is now learning on her own MT03.
That ending comment was so awesome! The honor of introducing someone to riding a motorcycle 😊 it truly is that important 😅 and an extremely huge responsibility. I'm so proud to be someone who gets to ride a motorcycle almost daily. Pure joy these machines!
I just introduced my friend into the two-wheeled world by hopping on the back of one of the rental mopeds in SF. I explained to her the do’s and don’ts as a passenger. She understood everything very quickly, but she was a little still scared at first. But we went for another ride around the city she had a blast! She’s definitely considering taking a class and getting a scooter for herself!
When I was younger, I took a passenger out on a date to a beach some 100km away. In the middle of the ride we decided to take a route thru some sand dunes that were reasonably ok to ride (I guessed).
I got exited and ended up doing 75KPH on a long descent with her on the back.
We never went out again.
75 km/h is nothing?
@@lurtzy_ those little sand bumps make it seem like it is
Great tips. We ride 2 up most of the time & have always enjoyed the rides. I would like to add 1 additional tip, make a habit of pulling the front brakes firmly while your passenger is mounting. This add more stability (with both feet on the ground of course) and you won't get caught rolling at some unexpected inclines.
After 30+ years of riding with my wife on back of everything from a 86 GSXR to a Fjr 1300 I've developed 2 distinct riding styles . Solo and 2 up and heaven forbid I ever ride solo with her on back ! Always put the joy and comfort of your passenger first , you'll be rewarded in the long run .
Same for me, my body have 2 mode when riding which is solo and duo and will automatically adjust whenever i have/not have passenger (usually wife or sister). During duo ride i always told them to just relax and always go on a comfortable speed, but whenever i need to speed up i told them beforehand and if they don't comfortable with it then i won't do it
Nope... you'll be rewarded in the evening... :))
I took the opposite route so my girl won't ask to ride with anymore.
I remember taking my brother for a 5min ride to his work. We didn't go above 30km/h. He couldn't stop talking about how much fun it was to lean and how fast it felt 🤣
Good video, the only thing I want to mention is holding on by the shoulders. This could be a bad idea if you hit a bump or something and could cause the passenger to pull back on the rider's shoulder, and accidentally pulling more throttle.
Precisely. I always cringe at the idea of pillions grabbing the rider's shoulders
Exactly, if I ride with an "inexperienced" passenger, I always tell them to hold on to my hips or torso, or the grab handles on the bike, but to never grab my shoulders or my arms, since that may cause unwanted steering inputs.
I've always just told passengers to keep their arms and hands "...anywhere UNDER my arms... such that you feel comfortable and can hold on securely"...
Had a buddy who liked scaring girls in high school on the back of his bike... It was mostly fun and funny as hell... Until one that was holding onto his shoulders "freaked out" and ended up locking her arms around his NECK...
As luck would have it, he got it stopped and in a few minutes we were all back to laughing (nearly hysterical) again, including the girl... BUT that could have been SOOOoooo bad...
...SO I've just been fairly strict about "below my arms"... I don't really care where or how exactly... wrap around me like a bear-hug,... clench fists into the folds or whatever of my jacket... latch onto the "oh-sh*t" handles on the sides of the bike... whatever floats your boat... Just as long as my arms are free to control the bike, and you're NOT tangling up my neck in a choke-hold... I don't need to pass out, and we BOTH don't really need to die. ;o)
I dont like myself being held in any way. Get the bikes handles, theyre there for a reason
@@esatd34 Clearly maidenless
Man I started riding after a friend took me for a pillion ride on his motorcycle. The same day I bought it off him. Haven't let go of the throttle since. I understand the deep value of giving a motorcycle ride to an associate or friend. Ride safe fellas!
All good points. I also let them know that if they need to adjust their position, they can, as long as they give me a sign and do it when the bike is in a straight flat and nice tarmac or at red lights or stop signs.
i found that they can dance on the back for all you care as long as you are riding. at slow speeds like 10kph or at a red light its better to sit still.
A system I found that works well (if you don’t have BT comms) is telling the pillion to tap my thigh if they need to stop. With a new passenger, sometimes they freak out or just have a gear issue. A dedicated way of getting my attention, at speed, that wouldn’t normally happen (none of my classmates were grabbing my thigh normally) was really helpful.
Another tip is to put a top case on your bike. I know, it might ruin your bike's aesthetic, but the passenger will have something to rest against to. Furthermore, it gives them confidence that they likelihood of flying off the seat is considerably reduced. Plus, they have a small place to put their purse or bags.
Excellent video as always Ari!
I rode as a pillion on my cousin's Snowmobile, and holy shit did I almost fall off the back of it on some bumps, even with holding onto him
Yep, sound advice. I ride 2 up with my wife and it gives her confidence and gives me extra room on my back so we're not crushed together.
Been riding with a passenger pretty much ever since I started riding 20 years ago... but I still clicked. The shop manual is just that good! Always something helpful.
I would also add that putting a little bit of upward pressure on the shift lever prior to actually shifting makes the ride a lot smoother. Prevents jerkiness and bumped helmets.
My tip for riding two up is always do everything a few seconds earlier. Like braking for instance. The first thing that I remember noticing was the amount of extra inertia caused by my pillion.
You are a pro!!! Your presentations are so easy to understand and absorb... Thank you
OMG he is showcasing an Italika motorcycle from Mexico, that's so cool! Greetings from CDMX folks, I love your content.
Wow, I've been riding for almost 20 years and never noticed the recommended psi when riding two. Thanks for the added knowledge 🤙
14yr MSF Beginners Rider Instructor here… Well said instructions Sir, A+.
Today I rode with a passenger for the first time... for a triathlon event.. we were the race marshall. 😅 I didn't wreck in front of everyone and it went great. Just followed the tips in this video. Used lots of back brake, played it very very easy with the clutch with long slow accelerations, and just told them to act like a rock on the back and not lean or do any sudden movements. It went great!
I think the most important thing is explaining how the passenger has control over the bike by shifting their weight and so it's important they remain in line with the bike.
I always explain it like "If I lean right, and you lean left, we go straight" lol
My pillion constantly hated riding on my old naked bike, but since I got a fancy ADV with electronic suspension both myself and passenger are happy to crush miles. Best bike change decision ever!
Longer breaking distance while 2-up - false if the breaks are ok. You just have to apply breaks stronger and faster to achieve the same distance as you do solo
I always tell my passenger the phrase "always lean with me, keep your chest in line with mine and the ride is smoother."
It's all about keeping their center of gravity aligned with your own.
I always tell them to put their head on the same side of mine that coincides with the direction we’re turning. A little thing but it subconsciously helps distribute weight and body position a lot.
Fortnine has a video about riding with a passenger. He actually advises the passenger NOT lean with the driver, but remain as straight up as possible, if I remember correctly.
@@DR4WZ also recall its all relative to your speed. Speed determines everything, lean angle, body position, brake pressure, etc. His video on counter-leaning the bike vs. leaning with the bike might’ve mentioned this also.
@@BlueDevilMoto it's been quite a while since I've watched the one about riding with a passenger, so I may have to rewatch. Him saying it's better for the passenger to remain straight is just what sticks in my mind. It may have been more nuanced than that though...
I rewatched the fortnine video and it seems I was incorrect in my recollection. It really doesn't say passengers should remain straight up, he actually said passengers afraid of moving can be a bad thing. I stand corrected.
He does mention for the passengers chest to follow the riders back. Seems this is closer to the original statements others made.
Just wanted to correct myself and not spread bad or potentially dangerous information...
Great tips. I've taken the nephew on a short blat and he loved it. I'm going to get an appropriate skid lid and gear. My sister and her hubby was surprisingly ok with it
First ride wit a passenger ended after 3 minutes in an accident…not my fault. After 2 weeks of pain with a broken arm she asked me when i will get a new bike (first one was totaled)
5 months later i recovered an she jumped with me in my new bike :)
And all the tips you gave are worth all the gold on earth.
Thanks for the good content
Stop lying 😂😂 ain't no one getting on a bike with a squid 🐙🦑
This video came just in time. I'm about to take my first passenger on a short road trip through the mountains.
Great video. All good information. I always ride like I'm in rain when I have a passenger on the back.....and when it rains I ride
like I'm in snow. This is the first time I came across someone that actually says just that.
This is a good video to not only watch, but have a new passenger watch as well. I could not have said it better !
Barry
Don't forget that the rear preload adjustment on some bikes (especially older ones) is air pressure. A manual bike pump is a good choice for adjusting these, as the max pressure is usually still pretty low, and the volume is also much lower than a tire, so it can be easy to over pressurize and blow out a shock by just using your regular air compressor set to 100psi.
4:27 That Italika looks a lot like a certain motorcycle model in my place (Philippines)
I like this dude! Chill and a great presenter, stating facts without being verbose.
When I did my driving school we had our instructor sitting behind as a passenger. It wasn't easy as me 14 year old carrying 100+ kg heavy person. It took some practice before going out of the yard into the town
I ride a KTM RC 390 and I have taken 2 girls on the back 😅 didn’t adjust the suspension. I did have them wear proper gear tho and told them how to get on and off and how to hold me. I find it more fun riding solo tho it can be stressful with a passenger
Very informative!
The first time I rode as a pillion with someone else than my Dad or brother almost killed me 😂 Like the guy was doing 70kph on city traffics! After that incident I don't ride as a pillion with someone else than the most trusted people.
I always make my pillion wear necessary gears and I try to ride at an even slower pace than usual :)
La poderosisima Italika FT150 haciendo presencia mexicana en Revzilla ✌🏼🇲🇽
Great concept for this video! Great tips especially first ride, pick a gentle cruise route. 2nd time will be much better, yeah.
The note about responsibility is key. When you take a passenger, you are potentially accepting responsibility for their life and limb. It pays to take a moment to consider that. And just as well, you should talk over the risks of motorcycle riding with any passenger you take. Let them know what might happen, what things are dangerous, and make a plan together on how you together want to handle those risks. And always, always stick to that plan. And finally: Never talk someone into riding by saying it's totally safe. Have an honest, risk aware discussion about it.
okay here's a quick tip, go eeexxtreemmllyy easy on the throttle and breaks cuz us riders dont feel the jerking as much becuz we're expecting it and have handle bars to hold on to, the passenger on the other hand will feel every single bump and jerk
Very good advice on riding two up. Thank you for this video clip.
My wife and I started two up on a sportster. I felt every little thing she did. We bought a road glide special last year. Now I have to reach back and touch her leg to make sure she is still there. It’s fantastic two up on bigger bikes. Way more forgiving.
My first time on a bike was being the passenger on a panigale 1299. My entire neck and back started hurting after 30 minutes, even though we weren't going fast or anything.
One thing I would add is that if possible, go for a ride as a passenger. It makes world of a difference understanding how the pillion feels when riding with you.
My introduction to motorcycles was a pillion ride, but I was quite young, a bit more recent was trying out some of my cousins' toys up north, like a 100ish CC Dirt Bike for kids (Could still haul my 200lbs self just fine) and riding a Yamaha 250cc Supermoto illegally around a small subdivision, two awesome experiences that I will remember forever
Bravo. I whole heatedly agree with this advice. I was surprised how quickly my 8 year old daughter picked up how to be a good pillion passenger. Give them the low down on what to expect and go easy.
I haven’t been riding long and a cute girl thru friends suggested we go for a ride soon. Thanks for the tips
In my country we 15 year Olds get licenses for 50cc bikes, great machines to learn two up riding. About 120km of experience w/a friend, definitely a great idea to start with a slower bike imo (unless you already have a lot of experience)
Did it for the first time yesterday. She was definitely more nervous than me, judging by the deathgrip she had around my waist at the start. But it got to the point where she was barely holding on at all. Just ride slow and smooth. You can throw in some speed later on.
Ok I've been waiting for this video from you guys a lot, but I gotta say I'm most definitely surprised that you guys showed an Italika ft125 I'm like wtf? , I'm from Mexico and that's one of the most seen delivery bikes around, enough of that, thanks for the awesome job explain and giving recommendations 👍🏻
Well presented. When I take a passenger, whether for the first or hundredth time, I consider my role to be an ambassador to the world of motorcycling. Everything I do for my passengers you have covered here. Thanks for sharing!
2:20 I was told "if you don't understand preload you shouldn't be riding with a passenger"
Is that true or mean?
Truth
Seems mean and elitist to me. Nobody is born knowing this stuff.
True but it takes about 5 minutes to understand preload. It means to take that 5 minutes to learn before you ride with a passenger.
@@John_Ridley I'd rather people say what you said. Snarky folks could use the time and breath they devoted to being jerks to being helpful instead
Where did you get that Italika?! And why do you have one?😆 I’m from Mexico and we obviously see them everywhere, but I didn’t know you could get them in the US. Gracias por el video!!
Excellent as always.....thanks Ari!
I don’t know about you guys but in My country you have to carry a passenger ( your instructor) in order to get your motorcycle license. Anyway good advices as always…big fan of the show - you and Zack were the reason that I subscribed on motortrend on demand. Left it when you guys left.
This sounds hilarious, but also dangerous. In my country the instructor rides/drives behind you on a bike or in a car. They talk to you with a radio (you can't talk back). The examinator will do the same and drive behind you and give you instructions.
@@Knakkerman- makes sense. But here in my country we learn how to ride the bike with the instructor in the back. So…at the exam, riding with the instructor is not a problem. The police officer is following you and communicate with the instructor on your bike.
@Av. Nedelcu ok let me get this straight. You have an instructor in the back that talks to you, but when you are doing your rider test there is also a police officer riding/driving behind you?! This sounds like an extremely inefficient and expensive way of learning to ride a bike.
@@Knakkerman- But wait, there s more! There is the instructor on your back and a car with another instructor and the police man. The procedure is: the policeman gives instructions to the instructor in the car and that instructor communicate with the instructor on the motorcycle and this one tells you . So… there you go
@@av.nedelcu5910 What is this mystery land called?
A part of speed consideration with a passenger is the stability of the motorcycle. Low-speed performance is more adversely affected by the added weight. So can’t be all, or even mostly, about “impressing the passenger.”
Great advice! And I love Kershaw knives. Made in the USA, carry everyday.
Thanks, Waylon! 👊
Any Ari video is worth watching. Bring on more Ari!
I love how both you and the passenger shook your heads when sitting on the sportsbike LOL
Hey guys... how about a video explaining about fuel injectors cleaners that you add to gasoline?!
I've given a lot of people their first rides on a motorcycle.
Every single one of them has asked for a repeat! I've never scared them away!
I tend to ride very VERY carefully when I have a passenger.
However once I went on a group ride in Utah and two of the guys on fast sportbikes had passengers.
When we stopped at a gas station, the girls were discussing getting an Uber home because they were scared.
One of them said she tried, but there was no signal where we were.
03:30 and if the rider isnt tall enough to plant both feet on the ground before the passenger hops on, is there any particular side that should be more planted than the other?
In the Philippines, we sometimes ride with 2 passengers, and that's on a scooter or on an underbone motorcycle
I LOVE having a passenger on my bike because it made me a lot more road conscious and ride safer, making sure the other person is comfortable.
I agree! I pay attention to everything when I'm with a passenger.
lol, the last time I took my friend as a pillion on a 500km ride, all I did was asked the mechanic if the bike will run for 500km. He said, changing the engine fluid and increasing tire pressure will do the job. It ran, we were going at 90kmph+ on Nepal's narrow windy roads. It was a blast.
Love the 'pretend it's raining' advice - gonna remember that 😀
The steering geometry change really does take some getting used to with a passenger. So keep that in mind if you're not experienced having somebody on the back. It will make your bike feel totally different.
Good one after some training and seat time it`s getting more and more comfortable!
Great advise as always! Keep up the excellent work!
My first time on a bike was as a passenger on a race track with a pro rider. I was scared shitless......and I loved it😊
I introduced a girl to motorcycling over 40 years ago. I guess I didn't scare her because she married me anyway. We're still married. Not riding anymore because old bones don't belong on a bike.
Great tips. I only dislike the suggestion of the passenger grabbing the rider's shoulders as I believe it can lead to poor handling and even a crash. I always ask my pillions to grab either the handles on the side of my motorcycle or my thighs as it doesn't produce interference with handling.
Cheers Ari
This is a great no fuss explanation. Love it. Great work again you guys.
Always a joy to watch your videos my friends. Stay safe
What an awesome video stuffed lot of nice and practical suggestions for rider who want to ride with their passenger!🔥🔥🔥
That is a great tip about treating it like it's raining when riding two up.
Always enjoy and learn something from your tutorials. Thank you
Great vid, does anyone know what kind of boots are the ones Mr Henning is wearing at 3:23 and 4:05 min mark?
Those are his personal old Sidi boots. The current model would be close to these Performers. www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/sidi-performer-air-boots
try riding smooth on a mt 07 with extra holes in stock exaust with no tune the throttle is on or of on that thing and its not my first bike been riding for 7 years so yes i can ride smooth and i did not make those holes in the exaust i got it like that need to close them for more torqeu
It would be really cool seeing something like this specifically for the passenger to watch before going for their first ride
How do you manage riders as pillions? I often notice pillions who also ride - subconsciously shift body weight, squeeze your hip (mimicing a tank hold) or even move feet applying break. As their breaking lean angels riding style might be different to yours.
Thanks. Nice pointers.
That last comment though. Picked up my then new boyfriend during rush hour in DC. Me just normally riding through traffic almost ended it right there. Thankfully he trusted me again and I learned real quick that it’s more terrifying for a passenger fitting through tiny places between regular cars and delivery trucks.
Enter to win a free Kershaw pocket knife here: a.pgtb.me/W6wfPG
Check out Ari’s full article on Common Tread about riding with a passenger! rvz.la/3dtLv7b
How about you guys hire me for that HR position so I can make my cross country trip on two? Worth a shot 😂
Ari, is it possible to do an episode on spark plugs? My dealer here in Singapore decided to put a non-Iridium spark plug in my Suzuki, when the specific documentation from Suzuki says it should using an Iridium spark plug, and the Suzuki parts manual, and even NGK's catalog all point to using Iridium plugs. your episode on fuel octanes was really good, and i've been sharing that info too. thank you!
My cousins and I learned to ride by taking turns riding two-up with each other on my uncle's raggedy old 125cc in shorts while we coached each other. His drum brakes barely work, the rear brake stops about as hard as blowing air out of your mouth and his carb runs so rich, it pops and crackles every time you let off the throttle. Speaking of throttle, his throttle was so tight, we had to squeeze to turn it. And his clutch was dead from start to like 2/3rds if the way with a couple millimeters between nothing and full bite. Our arms were aching by the end of the days and our butts were sore from the awful vibration, but we learned a lot and it was hella fun.
Now, riding alone feels like riding a bicycle because there's so little weight and the bike likes to go so readily.
Lol I didn't know there was this much to it, me and the boys just hop on our rides in shorts and go around our day
Riding with a passenger and treating it as if it were raining is a really good way to put it
RevZilla picking up Ari and Zach (Zack?) has been great.
I set the bike to "rain" mode which softens it. I also have a thigh pat code - I pat them once and the reply for OK is two on me - anything other I pull over and ask. No comms for me - riding is not about talking.
Why df did a saw a Italika hahaha? That's a super common motorcycle here in latam
Thanks Ari, as always good and helpful tips.
Awesome video and editing !
Things I’ve picked up over the years with my wife on the back. Easy on the braking so she doesn’t hit the back of my helmet or squish up on me. Before I leave at a green light or if I have to give it the beans I squeeze her arms with my elbow. If at a light will also give it a little blip of the throttle before pulling away so she knows I’m about to pull away. She also doesn’t like the far lean in some corners so I just take
It easy. In the very beginning we had the talk of lean when I lean and don’t look all
Over with out warning me first. Currently I have an 02 monster 750Sie. Two up isn’t bad. Wasn’t as nice on my 94 Fzr 600