Carrying A Passenger
This video points out a very interesting concept regarding pillion riders (passengers). The speaker is advocating that passengers take the MSF’s Basic Rider Course so that they learn how to control a motorcycle. What if the rider has a heart attack or stroke while riding? Are both rider and passenger doomed? Maybe not. The speaker suggests that the passenger reach over the slumped rider and gain control of the bike. If you’re familiar at all with David Hough’s book, Proficient Motorcycling, you understand how a motorcycle is really a gyroscope, and that it will try to remain on a straight path, and try to stay vertical. That will provide enough time for the passenger to take control of the clutch, throttle, front brake, or even the kill switch, and get the bike under control, off the road, and bring it to a stop. Not sure how the dismount will go, but this is still preferable to crashing into something or ending up in a ditch.
Hmmm. I think I’m going to get me a passenger. One who knows how to ride!
Motorcycle Safety: Carrying A Passenger
Excellence in Motorcycle Books:
Category: Motorcycle Videos