Pillion Appreciation
Strangely enough this is one of the things that is not covered in too much detail for either the standard test or any of the advanced tests.  Yet it is often one of the hardest things to get the hang of.  It is not until you actually try to carry a passenger that you realise just what all this means and exactly how much of a difference it can make. You'll also find out that some adjustments can be made to make the experience safer and more pleasurable for both you and your passenger.


Certain bikes like tourers and cruisers e.g. Honda Gold-Wing, Pan-European, Yamaha Virago, some Harley Davidsons and most of the BMW range are ideal for two up touring, while others make it simply impossible.  In any case a bike with a comfortable pillion seat, not perched two high up and a solid grab rail should make it easier on both rider and passenger. 


You should also check the manufacturer's manual to see what adjustments you need to make.  Some will require different tyre and suspension settings, while others need no modification at all.

The Pillion
There are two misconceptions that I can think of about carrying a passenger the first is that it is the role of the rider to scare the passenger as much as possible so that they thoroughly regret agreeing to the ride, while the second is that the passenger should be instructed to lean into the bends as much as possible.  For me the thought of carrying a petrified passenger who is going to lean over at every bend, when I am not expecting it is as scary as riding on a skid pan.



I therefore take extra care to brief any passenger that I have not carried before and ensure that they fully understand before we set off. 


The brief goes something like this:


While this helps to reassure the passenger that this is going to be a good experience, there are a couple of things outside of your control which will make for a difficult experience.  Carrying a heavy or tall passenger, particularly in relationship to your own size is going to highlight any problems you have.  Depending on the bike, you may decide that the combined weight of you and you passenger is simply too much load for the bike to be safe.


There are several positions which the pillion can use to hold on to the bike.  There is no best way, it depends on the type of bike and the pillion's preference.  Whichever they choose, it is important that they feel relaxed and comfortable.

Round the waist - Recommended for in-experienced pillions as it  gives them a sense of security allowing a better feel for corners (as they will naturally follow the rider).  The disadvantage is that the passenger can swamp the rider during braking and stretch them during accelerating.   Additionally, depending on the bike, the position may not allow them to see too much as they will be very close to the rider, which also increases helmet knocking.

On the grab rail - This gives less security, but allows a more rigid and stable position.  Both the passenger and rider will have more room, with increased visibility for both.  This position also reduces the swamp and stretch experience under braking and accelerating.  However, extreme acceleration could result in the pillion toppling off the back, if they have not locked their arms in position.

Brace -  With one hand on the grab rail and the other bracing in front either on the tank or the seat (depending on the bike), this position creates the feeling of a very light passenger.  It allows them to adapt to the road conditions and still have a degree of security and stability.  It does take a while to get used to and is not necessarily the best for an inexperienced rider or pillion.

The Rider
As the rider, you must remain in control at all times.  You will find that smooth use of the controls and plenty of forward planning will ease the journey.  You may also have to adjust your riding style to compensate for the extra load.  Engine braking will be less effective, cornering (particularly at low speed) will be harder to get right and you will need to work the motor a bit harder for overtakes.  You will also need to be more sure footed at junctions and queues and may wish to use both feet and keep the bike upright rather than lean over with one foot down.

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