A pillion rider has the most lively time on a bike; however, riding with pillion can be overwhelming and demanding as a rider. It takes courage to ride with a pillion on long road trips across the borders to the mountains and not just on the city roads.
Riding with a pillion ensures satisfaction both on physical and mental grounds, as pillions can be very comforting to a rider. If you are riding with a pillion, here are some fundamental points to follow.
- Briefing: This point contradicts from person to person. If you are riding with a pillion who is accomplished, then there is not much need for briefing; however, for a newbie briefing them about important pointers like gears and how to get on and off from the bike can be pivotal for a comfortable ride. Informing them at the beginning of the trip will ensure no mishaps occur, and they will start admiring motorcycle trips as much as you do! If not, it can all seem overpowering, and it can taint the first experience blue.
- Safety Gears: Safety is a compelling concern with two-wheelers bike, and if you are riding with a pillion, their safety is also your affair. Ensure that you have safety gear, like helmets and riding jackets, carried by the pillion as it is imperative. The gears make sure that both you as a rider, the pillion is safe and sound; if your pillion doesn’t have safety gear help them with your spare jacket or helmet.
- Basics of Bike: Getting on and off a bike may seem something elementary and monotonous to a rider, but for a pillion, it may seem a thing that is out of the world. Incorrect alignment can lead to the mis-balancing of the bike, which can be disastrous. Riding with a pillion is fun only when you teach appropriate mechanism, ask him/her to climb up from the left side by putting their left foot on the footrest and swinging the right leg over the seat. Once they are standing on both the footrests, they should sit down gently in a balanced motion. Getting out in the same counter clock motion is recommended.
- Pressing on: Holding on to the rider when riding with a pillion is crucial to maintain balance. Many people avoid clutching tight and instead keep their hands and arms on the thighs, which can get them tumbling in front during a sudden jerk or brake. Putting both arms around the rider and holding tight is the best bet for any pillion rider. Legs can also come in ingenious; having the legs fast against the rider gives a perfect balance for both the rider and the pillion safety. If, however, physical touch is something you avoid, then as a pillion, you can surely benefit from the handlebar behind the bike.
- Feet Position: The feet should both always be up and not on the ground as keeping feet in the ground can lead to a severe imbalance, leading to an accident or collision. During a traffic stop, often while riding with a pillion, the pillion adjusts their feet on the ground, which is not salutary and instead harms the rider.
- Bike adjustments: Riding with pillion can be challenging at times, but as a rider, you must make sure the pillion is comfortable all the time. If you both are carrying luggage, it should be placed so it doesn’t cause any problems to the pillion, and he/she can get on and off the bike quickly. The rear tire pressure must be adjusted so that the bike can carry the extra load, and it also decreases the change of the bike wobbling.
- Bike Performance Change: Be combat-ready for the bike to behave differently when riding with a pillion as when you ride with a pillion, the extra weight causes the bike to take additional time to speed up and overtake immediately.
- Decent Riding: Riding justly and cautiously within the speed limits is not only palpable but the right thing to do. Even though accelerating can be fun and thrilling for both you and your pillion, these skills can lead to mishaps while riding with a pillion if not taken care of.
- Proper communication: Communication is vital while riding with a pillion as it can help both the rider and pillion get out of boredom. The sound of the wind can make it challenging to listen appropriately, and here, good old hand gestures work well. The simple signs of wanting to go to the loo or eat food on the way can be easily communicated. However, some helmets come with Bluetooth devices, and if your helmet has that, then conversations can be a breeze… Get that pun, a breeze…
- A combined effort: While riding with a pillion, make sure you include them in the complete planning process, the areas you will stop, the picture and videos required. They should feel welcome and invited on the journey.
These are some steps and guidelines one can follow while riding with a pillion. Safe exploring and happy riding!