{"id":456,"date":"2016-03-15T21:57:57","date_gmt":"2016-03-15T21:57:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.freeway.com\/knowledge-center\/?p=456"},"modified":"2025-01-20T14:44:34","modified_gmt":"2025-01-20T14:44:34","slug":"motorcycles-safety-tips-new-riders-passengers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.freeway.com\/knowledge-center\/motorcycle-insurance\/motorcycle-safety\/motorcycles-safety-tips-new-riders-passengers\/","title":{"rendered":"Motorcycle Safety Tips for New Riders and Passengers"},"content":{"rendered":"

Once the warmer spring and summer weather arrives, more people are going to be riding motorcycles. Many will be veteran bikers who have been riding for years and know the risks associated with not wearing the proper motorcycle gear or following certain safety rules<\/a> that can reduce their chance of \u201ceating asphalt\u201d alone or with a passenger.<\/p>\n

But, novices or \u201cnewbies\u201d will also try their luck at grabbing ahold of a set of handle bars and hitting the nation\u2019s open roads. And, that can be a problem \u2013 if they don\u2019t obey some basic safety tips that can save them or their passenger from serious injury.<\/p>\n

First off, if you\u2019re a total beginner \u2013 do not take a passenger for a ride <\/strong>until you\u2019ve taken a motorcycle safety course and are proficient at handling your shiny new two-wheeler. As tempting as it may be to try to impress your girlfriend, leave traveling with a passenger to the experienced motorcycle rider for the time being. Doing otherwise could have tragic results for both you and your passenger.<\/p>\n

Not all motorcycles are equipped to carry passengers<\/h2>\n

If your motorcycle doesn\u2019t have a seat big enough to carry two people and extra foot pegs for your passenger \u2013 don\u2019t attempt it. Furthermore, check your owner\u2019s manual for weight limitations, operational recommendations, and equipment set up should your bike have room for a second rider. Specific guidelines are available from your state\u2019s department of motor vehicles.<\/p>\n

Proper gear and safety tips for passengers<\/h2>\n

While motorcycle riders find certain gear to be optional \u2013 such as gloves, boots, durable pants, and abrasion resistant jackets \u2013 an approved helmet is not. Also known as a \u201cbrain bucket\u201d in biker lingo, even if you opt to forego some of the other recommended gear, a helmet is a necessity to protect your head. In addition, the following tips will help keep your passenger safe by making sure:<\/p>\n