Riding two-up on the new Yamaha Star Venture. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Touring on a motorcycle is more fun if there?s someone else along to share the experience. But whether it?s an afternoon ride or a week-long road trip, there?s more to carrying a passenger than just dusting off the back seat and flipping down the rear footpegs. A rider and passenger should work as a team, because even though only one of them is at the controls, whatever happens, good or bad, affects them both.
The bike you ride factors into whether your passenger is going to enjoy the ride, or endure it. Luxury tourer" No sweat, go for it. Mile-high adventure bike" Maybe, but your passenger should be adventurous, too. Cruiser" Depends on the size. What feels fine for an afternoon can easily turn into torture over the course of a few long days on the road, so make sure the bike you ride is really right for two-up riding. Riders usually get on first and steady the bike upright with the front brake on. Then passengers step on the left footpeg, brace with their left arm on the rider?s shoulder and swing their right leg over the seat. Some riders prefer the bike to be on its sidestand, but then it can be hard to lift off the stand with a passenger aboard. Photo by Brian J. Nelson.
Whatever you ride, a passenger will affect its performance. Handling changes, cornering limits come up earlier, braking distances go up and fuel economy goes down. Before you head off for the wild blue, you and your ...