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ABATE of Florida Inc SOUTHWEST CHAPTER
9
The motorcycle owner’s manual should be reviewed for manufacturer’s tips about
motorcycle setup as well as any related operational recommendations.
The motorcycle’s suspension and tire pressure may need adjustment.
Care should be taken to not exceed the weight limitations specified in the owner’s
manual.
Passenger Preparation
Passengers should be tall enough to reach the footrests and mature enough to handle
the responsibilities.
Passengers should wear proper protective gear.
Passengers should receive a safety briefing (see #7 below).
Passengers should consider themselves a second operator and share responsibility for
safety.
General Safety Considerations
You need to be experienced in the motorcycle’s operation and have a safety-oriented
attitude before taking on the added responsibility of carrying a passenger.
Practice low-speed clutch/throttle control as well as normal and emergency braking in
a low-risk area like an open parking lot, with a passenger.
Use caution in cornering and develop cornering skills over time to ensure passenger
comfort and safety.
Use caution in corners as clearance may be affected.
Use a Search, Evaluate, Execute (S.E.E.) strategy to increase time and space safety
margins.
Allow time for a passenger to adjust to the sense of speed and the sensation of
leaning; speeds should conservatively safe and reasonable until a passenger
acclimates to the proper riding techniques.
Ensure passengers follow safety procedures:
o
Complete personal protective gear is properly in use.
o
Hold operator’s waist or hips, or motorcycle’s passenger hand-holds provided.
o
Keep feet on footrests at all times, including while stopped.
o
Keep hands and feet away from hot or moving parts.
o
When in a corner, look over the operator’s shoulder in the direction of the
corner.
o
Avoid turning around or making sudden moves that might affect operation.
o
If crossing an obstacle, stand on the pegs with the knees slightly bent and
allow the legs to absorb the shock upon impact.
Allow more time for passing.
Be ready to counter the effects of wind.
Avoid extreme speeds and dramatic lean angles.
Be ready for a passenger “bump” with their helmet when stopping quickly.
Start the motorcycle before the passenger mounts.
Have the passenger mount after the motorcycle’s stand is raised and the motorcycle
is securely braced.
Annually complete an ERC Skills Plus Rider Course SM with a passenger.
Have frequent passengers complete a Basic Rider Course so they can better
understand the operator’s task.
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