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ORIGINAL: idodirt

A couple of things I would keep in mind when carrying a passenger. First off is they have to have fun. No sense in going for a ride if they're not going to enjoy it. Next is they have to wave at all the motorcycles they see while on the ride. It gives them something to do, and makes them feel a part of the crowd. Seriously though, make sure you instruct them to only get on and off the bike when you tell them to do so. That way you're ready to keep the bike steady as they mount and dismount. A passenger should get on from the left side, and start by putting their left foot on the left passenger peg and stepping up, while swinging their right leg over to the other side and then sitting down. They should do the opposite to dismount. Stand up on both pegs, then swing the right leg back over to the left side and then step off with the left leg. I've seen many passengers that, while getting off will put their left leg on the ground, then try to swing their right leg off the bike. Many times, depending on the bike they get a nasty burn on the inside of their calf muscle from the exhaust pipe. Make sure they understand to lean with the bike, not in the opposite direction. It can make for an interesting turn if they're leaning the opposite way you are. Most of these things seem like common sense, but to someone that hasn't been on a bike they may not have thought of them. If you give them these simple instructions ahead of time, it does several things. It makes it safer for them and you. It puts them at ease so they know what they're supposed to do and what you expect from them. It also demonstrates your knowledge of motorcycle riding, and helping them feel comfortable in your ability to get them home safely. Oh yea, they should wear a helmet and shoes appropriate for riding on the bike as well as long pants.

Sorry, once I got up on the soap box, I couldn't stop...

Have a great time and maybe sometime they might get their own and go riding with you.

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ORIGINAL: Beksooh82

Thanks a lot for the soap box preaching, it was useful information.  Hopefully when the weather clears up I'll get to take some friends out!