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ABATE of Florida Inc SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
8
A
Tip on Safety
A Tip
on Safety
Guidelines for Carrying a Passenger on Your
Motorcycle
Legal Considerations
All state laws and requirements for carrying a passenger must be followed.
Some states have specific equipment requirements. Examples: the motorcycle must
have passenger footrests, passengers must be able to reach the footrests, and a
motorcycle must have a separate seating area for a passenger.
The decision to carry a child, assuming all safety and legal factors have been
considered, is left to the parent or guardian. Ensure that the child is mature enough
to handle the responsibilities, tall enough to reach the footrests, wears a properly
fitted helmet and other protective gear, and holds onto you or the passenger hand-
holds. Check your state’s laws; a few states have set minimum ages for motorcycle
passengers.
Operator Preparation
Passengers should be considered as a second “active” rider so they can help ensure
that safety and procedural operations are correctly followed.
A passenger will affect the handling characteristics of a motorcycle due to the extra
weight and independent motion.
A passenger tends to move forward in quick stops and may “bump” your helmet with
theirs.
Starting from a stop may require more throttle and clutch finesse.
Braking procedures may be affected. Braking sooner and/or with greater pressure
may be required.
More weight over the rear tire may increase the usefulness and stopping power of the
rear brake, especially in quick stop situations.
Riding on a downgrade will cause braking distance to increase.
Extra caution is called for in a corner because of the extra weight.
Cornering clearances may be affected.
More time and space will be needed for passing.
The effects of wind, especially side wind, may be more pronounced.
Motorcycle Preparation
The motorcycle must be designed to accommodate a passenger.
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