Carrying a Pillion and Luggage on a Motorcycle

AUTOMOTIVE · GLOBAL

Carrying a Pillion and Luggage on a Motorcycle

Weight limits, how a passenger changes the bike, luggage and the law

Adding a passenger or luggage changes how a motorcycle behaves more than most riders expect, and the limits are published rather than a matter of judgement.

Weight limits are real

Every bike has a maximum load figure covering rider, passenger and luggage. Exceeding it affects braking, steering and suspension and is a genuine safety issue.

The tyre load index and the recommended pressures for two-up riding are stated in the handbook. Raise the pressures and adjust the rear preload accordingly.

How it rides

The bike is slower to accelerate, takes considerably longer to stop and pitches differently under braking. Ground clearance reduces and the steering feels lighter at the front.

Ride more gently for the first few miles, brake earlier and take corners slower than you would alone.

Briefing a passenger

Get on only when told, hold the rider or the grab rail, look over the rider's inside shoulder in corners, and do not lean independently. Keep feet on the pegs at all times, including at a stop.

Proper gear for the passenger too — a helmet that fits, a jacket with armour, gloves and boots.

Legal requirements

In the UK, the bike must have a proper passenger seat and footrests, and the rider must hold a full licence. Learner riders may not carry a passenger.

Comfort on longer rides

A backrest, a properly shaped seat and decent suspension settings make two-up riding considerably more bearable. Agree signals with a passenger before setting off, since conversation is difficult.

Stop more often than you would alone.

Fitting accessories

Check anything bolted on is rated for the bike and torqued correctly, and that it does not interfere with the suspension, the exhaust or the lights.

Before a long trip

Check tyre pressures and condition, chain tension, brakes, lights and fluid levels, and pack so weight is even side to side. Loose luggage is what causes wobbles at speed.

Plan shorter days than you would in a car and stop before you are tired.

Gear for two

Both riders need a helmet that fits, armoured clothing, gloves and boots. Most injuries involve the legs and feet, which is exactly where people economise.

Check the pillion footrests fold down and that the passenger knows where they are.

Practise two-up in a quiet car park before a first ride with a passenger on the road.

Luggage

Keep weight low and forward, secure it with proper straps rather than bungees alone, and check nothing fouls the suspension or the exhaust. Panniers change the bike's width in traffic.

Check anything fitted does not obscure the lights or the plate.

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