Maybe you have some experience as a motorcycle driver, but you’re looking into renting a motorcycle with a passenger. Riding a motorcycle takes a combination of balance and control—even more so when you add a passenger to the mix.
Let’s take a look at how to prepare for riding with a passenger and other motorcycle renting tips.
Your first passenger should be comfortable with motorcycles
Finding the right passenger to practice with is the first move. You want someone who’s already experienced with riding a motorcycle. Ask this person to meet up with you at a large parking lot. There, you can practice riding with them to get a feel for how this works.
Make the right adjustments
Adding a passenger’s weight will change how your motorcycle handles. For example, you may need to make changes to the tire pressure. The same goes if you’re carrying extra cargo. You’ll want to check out the manual to see what changes need to be made.
Get the right equipment for your motorcycle
You want a bike that is fit for riding with two people. If you’re looking for motorcycle renting tips, one is to ask the agency if the bike is fit to ride with a passenger. Then you want to ensure that the saddle is comfortable for both you and the passenger. If it isn’t comfortable for the passenger, they may end up moving around a lot, which can be distracting while you’re driving. You may want to consider add-ons for the bike as well, such as passenger foot pegs and adequate cargo space for two.
Train your passenger
Once you’re comfortable with having a passenger on the bike, then you may expand beyond people already familiar with motorcycles. That said, you’ll need to train your passenger on what to do. For example, you’ll want to go over the basics of riding, such as when you push on the handlebars, this will cause the bike to move in the opposite direction. This will help reinforce the idea that passengers should not make any sudden movements that could affect how you drive.
Stay focused on safety
With a passenger, you’re going to have more weight on the bike, as well as other added variables that affect the motorcycle riding experience. Going over everything with a fine-toothed comb and confirming that your passenger is comfortable will go a long way toward having a smooth ride. From fine-tuning the suspension to testing the brakes, it never hurts to pay extra close attention to safety.
The next time you’re renting a motorcycle with a passenger, check out what Escape Eagles has to offer. We offer a wide range of bikes, as well as our knowledge of the region’s tourism hotspots and our ability to tailor your experience to be unique and unforgettable. Try out our well-kept, comfortable, powerful Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and find a bike that fits your tastes—then prepare for a trip you’ll never forget! Contact us today to learn more and get a free quote.