- Proper gear equals a comfortable ride - Waleska Saltori
Thinking of taking a ride on the back of a friend's Harley Davidson? If done right, riding pillion (that's the official term for being a bike passenger) can be really fun! Even more so on a Harley, a special kind of motorcycle, many of which are specially built to carry pillions.
Pre-ride Safety Tips
The following tips will help to ensure the overall safety of your ride before you get on the bike:
- 1. Ask as many questions as you need to in order to feel safe and comfortable before getting on the bike.
- Make sure the bike and the rider are 'pillion-friendly'. For example, the bike is able to take a pillion, has a proper pillion seat, and the rider has experience with pillions.
- All riders should be properly licensed and experienced in carrying pillions.
- Do not make hand signals at other drivers or riders. This can be confusing and potentially dangerous. Leave the riding and decisions around the bike up to the rider.
Be the Perfect Pillion
To make your ride a safe and repeatable experience for both yourself and the rider, you should follow a few basic pillion rules:
1. Know the bike: Before you get on, ask the rider to briefly describe how the bike works and where the 'hot areas' are, for example, the exhaust. Knowing the basics will help you to avoid injuries such as exhaust burns.
2. Suit up: Always wear the correct protective clothing and gear to ensure both safety and comfort while riding. Essential items include a helmet (preferably with a visor), sturdy boots, gloves, a protective jacket, sunglasses, and leathers (such as leather chaps to protect your legs and keep them warm). Your helmet should fit snugly - ask a knowledgeable shop attendant to show you how to correctly fit and secure the helmet, which must be worn at all times while riding.
3. Wee break: Go to the bathroom before you get on the bike. It can be a long ride if you're uncomfortable!
4. Think weather: Sun can turn to rain in a matter of minutes, and being freezing on the back of a motorbike (even a comfy one like a Harley) can make for a miserable ride. Dress in layers for warmth without bulk and don't forget the sunscreen!
5. No unnecessary extras: Don't carry any accessories that could fall off the bike, blow away, or interfere with the rider. Handbags are a no-no. Rather, make sure your jacket has zipped pockets where you can store extras like money. If you need to take a bag, make sure that it is easy to carry (like a backpack) or that it can be properly secured to the bike.
6. Get on with care: Don't mount the bike without the rider's permission or awareness. You could cause the bike to topple over if you catch the rider unawares. Remember that Harleys are large, heavy, and expensive. It is best to approach them with care. Ask the rider how to best get on. Common practice is to slide your right leg over the seat and gently slide across the seat until you are sitting upright. Then, place your feet on the foot pegs. Comfortably settle yourself. Agree with the rider on a signal that you are ready to move off.
7. Ride right: Sit facing forward on the bike. While you can look around, avoid twisting your body, and keep your arms and legs close to your body at all times. Remember that moving around too much can destabilise the ride. Don't stand up or make large or rapid movements. When taking corners, lean the same way as the bike but not too far to one side. A way to do this properly is to follow the rider's movements, keeping your helmet in line with the rider's helmet. Be aware of the movement of your body when the rider brakes or accelerates so that you can avoid knocking helmets. Tell the rider if you need to move dramatically before doing so. Even on a big bike like a Harley, your movements affect the stability of the bike.
8. Hold on but not too tight: You might want to hold onto the rider's waist but check if this is the most comfortable position for both of you. It might be easier to hold onto the pillion strap on your seat or the grab rail, if there is one. Do not grab onto the rider's arms or shoulders as this will hamper their riding ability.
9. Stay steady: Don't put your feet down at traffic lights or when the bike stops. Keep your feet on the foot pegs. You could cause problems if your feet are on the ground when the bike moves off.
10. Chat quick: Ask the rider how you will communicate while riding. Choose the right time to communicate and keep it short. Agree on a few 'sign language' signs for key instructions such as 'stop' (two taps on the shoulder) or 'ok' (thumbs up) for quick communication. Rememeber that the rider needs to concentrate on the road and riding might not be the best time for a lengthy conversation.
11. Dismount with style: As with getting on, you should not dismount without telling the rider. Don't hang onto or pull on the rider when dismounting. Common practice is to stand up on the foot pegs, curl your right leg up and behind you, and swing it over the seat before placing it on the ground behind you. Then lift your left foot off the rest. Step well away from the bike, making sure you leave enough room for it to move away smoothly.
12. Safety always: Riding a motorbike can be great fun but the potential for injury and accident is high. Always follow the safety instructions given by the rider and adhere to necessary safety precautions and all road rules.
Have fun, ride well!
With the above points in mind, you will be better equipped to enjoy your Harley ride, in safety and style. So, think carefully and then sit back and enjoy the wind on your face and the fabulous scenery whizzing by!
Waleska Saltori - Waleska Saltori is a freelance writer, editor, and corporate trainer. She has a Masters degree and an enquiring mind.
