Get on. Sit Down. Shut up.

While the above slogan sold on t-shirts in Sturgis is meant to be humorous, there is some truth to it. Too many passengers, sorry ladies, ignore motorcycle riding etiquette, safety rules, and common sense.

I recently had the opportunity to follow other motorcycles, in group riding events, riding two-up. The confusion the female passengers created during the rides was not only shocking, but amazing.

Since when is it the passenger’s responsibility to signal the driver’s intent?

And what fellow rider or automobile driver would be crazy enough to think that the passenger was clairvoyant and could predict the driver’s intensions? I wouldn’t.

On one recent ride, I witnessed both the driver and passenger signaling a turn. Arms were flying everywhere. He was signaling low. She was signaling high. Then she signaled low. It was not only distracting, but confusing and dangerous. For a moment, with the flapping of arms, I considered the possibility of the bike going airborne.

On other rides, I have witnessed passengers clinging desperately to the rider, and passengers with their arms wrapped up over the driver’s shoulders kissing, laughing, and talking with the driver. How is the driver expected to operate the motorcycle safely with distractions and restrictions on the driver’s movement?

Then there are passengers who are busy taking on and off clothing/jackets, hunting water bottles and drinking, fixing their hair and head gear; leaning first to the right and then to the left. Do they not understand their movements affect the driver’s ability to balance the motorcycle?

Passengers need to learn that their behavior not only impacts the safety of the bike they are on, but also the safety of others who follow them. How can that be, you ask? Let me explain.

In group riding, motorcycles follow the bike in front of them.

Just like the Air Force Thunderbird Team follows the leader when performing, a group of motorcycles riding together follows the leader. Of course, they don’t blindly follow the leader, but they do take their queues from the lead rider. The leader is expected to signal riders following behind his intentions, in addition to, curves on the road, potholes, sand, and other hazards in the road, bicycles and runners along the sides of roads, etc.

If a driver puts a foot out, those behind him assume there is a hazard in the road, and react accordingly to avoid a hazard. But if the passenger extends a foot, what message are they sending? Are they signaling a hazard on the road? Or are they just stretching their leg?

Remember, in a group ride, everyone but the lead rider is following the motorcycle in front of them, and their riding effects the motorcycle behind them. Is the driver watching the antics of the passenger? Or watching the road? For the safety of everyone, it is important each driver stays focused on the road.

Passenger actions can distract other motorcycle riders.

Riding two up can be fun. I’m not suggesting a passenger can’t wave at oncoming bikes or even point out an occasional pothole. Just don’t be a backseat driver. Get on. Sit down. Be considerate of others.

This article was written by a woman who has logged over 100,000 as a passenger on a motorcycle. Surprised?

Get on. Sit Down. Shut up.
Radio - Sep 2, 2009

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Get on. Sit Down. Shut up.Radio - Sep 2, 2009

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Get on. Sit Down. Shut up.
Radio - Sep 2, 2009

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