How to ride a motorcycle with a pillion passenger - Hints and tips for two up riding

[@davemartin53]

Made sure you are covered on your insurance to carry a pillion 👍😱

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Very good point Dave - I should have mentioned that - I'll pin this comment....

[@colinpettit3448]

A lot of bikes have a pillion seat .You really shouldn't have to tell your insurance company you carry a pillion. My car has five seats but I don't have to tell them I carry passengers.

[@xtc2v]

@@colinpettit3448 My insurance company is one that asks if I intend to carry a pillion. With pillion passenger insurance the passenger can claim against the riders insurance rather than claiming as a third party

[@SteveInskip]

Colin Pettit you sure about that? Some companies do not provide disability liability cover over 3 passengers. Check the exclusions on your policy.

[@matthewoliver9055]

@@colinpettit3448 my premium went down when I ticked I won't carry a pillion so yes you do have to tell your insurance

[@robbikebob]

Don't know if someone's mentioned it but it helps to use your back brake a lot more than normal. There is more weight on the rear so the rear tyre offers more grip for stopping and is less likely to lift, it helps the front, which will be having to deal with more forces going through it, and even at slower speeds applying the rear brake stops fork dive and can make stop/start riding a smoother experience.

[@triumphshep]

I was going to suggest this too. Great advice.👍

[@danwilson8390]

Good tip

[@Scootir185]

Hadn’t heard that. Thank you sir!

[@scotthall8428]

I just found this out today,good pointer👍

[@marystewart4731]

My wife is a bit disabled, and can’t get on with the top box fitted, but she needs the top box to lean on, so we have a procedure where she gets on using the riders pegs and seat, then shuffles back,then I get on last. Works for us! We both love biking, and have done for half a century.

[@Alanroch51]

True the top box adds difficulty for the pillion, only ever the missus in my case, getting on and off but I always fit it to ensure she does not slip off the back in the event (very unlikely perhaps) of a rear end shunt.

[@josephoconnell9483]

Glad to see we are not the only one's that use this method... just can't get the leg over like we used to!! ;-)

[@xkal3319]

Exactly the same for us as well. Only system that works for her....

[@Ian__Preston]

This is a method the wife and I have used, both for getting on and off

[@karlosh9286]

When I've tried to get on a bike with a top box in a show room, I've had issues getting on and off as just the "rider". I haven't yet mastered the "karate kick" method on getting on the bike.

[@tonykisvardai2346]

My wife’s usual communication method is a punch in the kidneys 😂

[@Gambo916]

Mine used to do that at 130+.......so I soon stopped taking her!!

[@charlesderijcke5307]

That's why we should see the sequel: how to throw of the pillion half way through the trip.

[@bobfisheruk]

You do need an Intercom !

[@lethargic_cow]

😂😂😂😂

[@sandramullen7804]

😂 😂 😂 😂 😂 😂 😂

[@docmarten8382]

That wry smile by Mrs F says it all.... when you mentioned having intercoms. Priceless.

[@JeiBeeBee]

My wife and I did many thousands of miles or kilometres on our trusted CB500, just using hand signals, just as Mr. Flyer advocates. And I was fighting my pillion’s request for an intercom heroically for many years. Now, with a new Crossrunner under our butts, we decided to spend half of the money we required to buy the bike, for upgrading our entire gear, and the fight against those little gadgets that you attach to the helmets was finally lost. 😱 But I have to say, it was the best upgrade to our gear. Talking to each other on a lengthy journey, commenting on the countryside, joking around around or whatever, turned our travels more enjoyable and more into a shared experience. So bottom line: get an intercom!!!

[@903lew]

I’m a newer rider and I ride with my kid on the back most days. Take him to school, small trips to see his little friends, going on some small proper excursions come spring. We’ve had Cardos since day 1 and I can’t see us without them. They lead to some of the best conversations we’ve ever had. Seeing the world through the eyes of a child is great, even more so when he’s being his most lovely self (“Oh look, that’s a nice red car, I’ll give them a wave! They waved back! Fun! Ooo look at that bike dad! Is that a Honda? A Guzzi? Cool!”). Apart from the ride it just becomes quality time for the two of us. Apart from that it’s nice to know he can tell me when his hands are cold, when he needs to take a toilet break, if he gets thirsty. And because I got the nice cardos it means he can listen to his stories and music while I can listen to mine on long rides. It helps him not fall asleep, works in the car anyways. Now, riding with the boy would be great intercom or no intercom. But with intercoms it’s really become much much more than I thought it would be.

[@JeiBeeBee]

@@903lew Lovely post; I couldn't agree more. 😍

[@Banditmanuk]

My Carol hated being pillion. She took her test, got a Street Triple 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Result!

[@robgutteridge1649]

And boy can she ride well, watch them on their adventures!

[@Banditmanuk]

@@robgutteridge1649 I'm sure she would be chuffed with that comment 👍👍Thanks Rob, taking her test was one of her better decisions. Yes folks we do have a tiny KZbin channel

[@thomaswarren2699]

"Mister and Missus Missenden Flyer" - My my, what a mighty mouthful!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Tell me about it!

[@5tevieb954]

That’s what she said

[@thomaswarren2699]

@@5tevieb954 it's disappointing that thumbs down don't appear on comments any more

[@joshnnik]

Having rode with pillion passengers for over 50 years I find my PillionPal belt with it’s handles gives them a choice to vary their hand hold positions on a journey. The great thing on more modern bikes is using the Rain mode to soften the bikes responsiveness, which provides a smoother ride experience for them as well.

[@frankstocker5475]

Have to disagree about the intercom, for me, it's great to have a chat while riding along.

[@chriskarenjake]

I agree - intercoms are great, enjoy using them on rides with mates on their bikes and/or with pillions.. I resisted for a while because my ex-gf could talk for England but actually when riding she knew when to keep quiet... LOL

[@marcusgeorge1825]

Great advice and you wife sounds lovely (I think you’re batting a bit high in the order). 😂 Back to pillions.... You’ve covered basically everything, which is great! The main point I always instruct new pillion is simple as you don’t want them to try and remember everything. So, all I say is “when I’m turning left all you need to do is just look over my left shoulder and if I’m turning right then just look over my right shoulder”. Simple and effective! Love your work as always! I look forward to each and every video! 👍😎

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Marcus - very kind of you (except the bit about me batting above my weight)....

[@marcusgeorge1825]

TheMissendenFlyer you love it! 😜

[@marcusgeorge1825]

I love it when people say that to me about my wife. It’s actually a big complete. You’re a handsome man yourself, not that I bat that way, and their is nothing wrong if people do. 😊

[@marcusgeorge1825]

mahbin when I’m stationary on a bike with a pillion I feel is the best time for them to move a bit (as long as you are aware). Last thing you need of them moving about when you are tucked in and committed to a corner. I’d also add that as long as you are riding at about 50% of your own capabilities then even if they do move around a bit you can adjust your line.

[@dieterf8304]

Great tips. One thing that helped us is to agree on the length of the ride and when you are planning to take a break... the first time I took the Missus on the GS she could hardly get off again as we rode way too long :-) Also... for new passengers a nice way to explain leaning into a curve is that they look over your right shoulder when you right turn, left shoulder for left turn... keep up the amazing vids, love to watch them !

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes great tips Dieter, thanks for that (and for the kind words!).......

[@spetersonmusic]

Love when Ms. is on the channel, she is a delight. Totally informative and fun to watch - but I admit I was looking forward to the blooper reel at the end! LOL.

[@scottyfpv7069]

I just want to say this has been the best video we have found to give advice for carrying a passenger. It helped me convice the wife to come out on the bike which she has been very much against.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad it helped!

[@garmit61]

Love the comment about the amount of luggage. I did a three week tour of France in the 80s and my other half brought down piles of luggage. I gave her a 35 litre pannier and said , “that’s your lot”. I think she understood the message after we’d loaded the bike up. It weighed a metaphorical ton. And we did have to pick it on the Mulsanne straight.

[@robwebber1217]

I have a huge bike with a top box fitted, the missus is 5ft 2" with little legs, getting on and off the bike for her is like watching a marine on an obstacle course! lol

[@razu1976]

My wife and I have recently started riding 2-up and it's so much fun! It's weird to begin with, especially coming to a stop. But there are so many things you deal with on a bike, like strong cross winds, that it's just another thing that you quickly adapt to. Great advice in the video 👍👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Totally agree!

[@TheMilkybarkid69]

l love my intercoms either with wife or mates, for me it makes the ride better.

[@TeamDuval]

My husband and I have been riding 2up for 38 year and over 500,000 kms have been in foreign lands. For us an intercom is a godsend. It’s great for having a chat about what we are seeing during our ride, but there are also times when we might not say anything for an hour or so. When we need to say something, we can and have no trouble to be heard. We have some friends who said they would never get an intercom, but have and never regretted it. The pillion in included in the ride more when you can talk to each other. Of course, I know everyone is different and it’s a matter of preference.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Indeed - I do own several sets of intercoms, but so far haven't felt the need to use them.....

[@sebrofseven]

Excellent, thank you. About to do this for the first time in 10 years of not riding on a Honda ST1300. Very helpful

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Enjoy your trip!

[@lylemacdonald6672]

Pretty concise advice and all good especially the thing about not leaning. I tell my passenger they should become a part of the bike; don't help it and don't fight it.

[@gmcphoto]

Really enjoyed that video. Your wife did a great job. Initially I took it very easily with my wife as I was breaking her in as a passengers. Once her confidence was up and she was comfortable on the back I asked her to start leaning a bit more when we were in the corners. It really helps when your on a big bike like the K1600GT. We use Cardo Packtalks to communicate. I often prep her for sharp corners or scenic views etc. She is forbidden to discuss her “Honey-do” list.

[@YarroMoto]

Sorry, I didn't have time to scroll through the 200+ comments below to see if this has already been mentioned...So, the best advice I have for pillions, is to look ahead at the approaching bends and then look over the corresponding shoulder of the rider as the bend is entered...this encourages the pillion to move in sync with the rider and it's better for everyone! 😎

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yep been mentioned......

[@Roger_White]

"Hun.....just scream louder if you want to go faster" 😂 Good points as always.

[@davidquinn5386]

Done 20,000 miles with the wife on the back here in Peru , I think you have covered everything. One thing we both like though is the intercom system we have , it’s basic but it’s been great as we cover long distances most of the time and it’s nice to talk when we are on the bike upwards of 8 hours a day . You have given sound advice , nothing to disagree with .

[@great2c4me]

How about you, did you find yourself getting saddle sore far more sooner with a passenger? what's the fix?

[@davidquinn5386]

@@great2c4me your always going to get a bit of bum ache if you do big miles in a day , but we stop every couple of hours so thats our fix

[@richardlucas5819]

What intercom system are you using?

[@TheSudsy]

very comprehensive - you read my notes lol. Our code, in addition, is as we are riding I rub her leg. If she is ok she queezes me with her thighs. Same for her telling me she is ready to go, squeezes me with her thighs, like "giddy up". If I had only one tip - leave your stand down for mount and dismount and make your pillion mount and dismount on that stand side.

[@libman2006]

Great video, wish I'd seen something like this before I first took a pillion. I found it easiest to stand straddling the bike holding the handlebars while the pillion gets on. Also if you live on a quiet road start with the bike on the road next to a raised kerb, the extra height from them being on the kerb makes it easier for them to get on.

[@neilking1]

Your wife's facial expressions are priceless, makes me smile. I note that Carol has the same Helmet as Noraly...... good advert for Arai 😉. Oh yes, nearly forgot.......great video 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

You are right! Those X4's are brill - just a shame Arai won't talk to me!!

[@dennisgreene7164]

Excellent advice as always. My experience with big bikes suggests that a pillion generally makes very little difference to handling except at lower speeds and when parking up and dismounting. Also on modern bikes, it pays to set up the Electronic Suspension properly for two, or two plus luggage, before setting off.

[@bradleyalexander5821]

Mrs Flyer is this Star of the show. ⭐️. Always learn many thingys by watching the channel. Andy, you’re the best. 👍🏼

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Crikey - thank you....

[@bradleyalexander5821]

👍🏼

[@davereinhart9933]

I love sharing a ride with my wife. It looks like the two of you have a wonderful time riding together also.

[@MarkATaylor]

Good advice Mr and Mrs Flyer, as two up riding is the norm for us these days we’ve just been watching saying “we do that”.

[@great2c4me]

How about you, did you find yourself getting saddle sore far more sooner with a passenger? what's the fix?

[@MarkATaylor]

@@great2c4me Yes that’s true because you tend to move about less. I get round this by standing up occasionally which my passenger is comfortable with (my ass in her face 😂)The other thing is of course stopping more often, which we tend to do and have a cup of tea, very civilised and we’re I no rush.

[@mattjuneau888]

Great video! Some really useful tips here. One thing I would suggest is checking if your tires require any change in pressure when you take a pillion passenger. Some bikes will recommend the tires are inflated to a higher PSI - You'll find this in your owner's manual 😁

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Great point! Should have mentioned that.....

[@simonthomas5367]

Great stuff guys, thanks. Will show this vid to my wife, who at the moment is very wary of bikes. In fact she thinks we're all mad.

[@chriskammerer221]

This is more encouragement than a tip, but riding two-up takes practice. Just like when we all start off riding, a pillion needs to practice to get comfortable. The first ride is always the hardest - it gets easier and more fun from there. Don't throw all the rules at them at once. Focus on the initial necessities, then help them build their skills over time. Patterns emerge and you two can fall into a fun and safe groove.

[@great2c4me]

How about you, did you find yourself getting saddle sore far more sooner with a passenger? what's the fix?

[@dsimon9s29]

Thank you for posting. Great video. We get on and off the bike a bit differently than you and your wife. In our case, while the bike is on the side stand, she gets on the driver's seat and then scoots back to the pillion position. I then get on the driver's seat straighten the bike and off we go. When dismounting, we do the process in reverse. A matter of preference, but I find it to be a bit more stable process. Again ymmv.

[@425wbt]

We love our Cardo Freecom 2 cause we chat away together half the time on the bike but we love chatting together in life. We added panniers to the bike last year and that adds another element to getting on and off. My wife actually has to get on first now. We enjoy your work keep it up well done from Aussie Mark and Jo-Ann

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you both and stay safe down there....

[@raycollington4310]

Good to the Chief of Staff finally getting a grip of the channel. Loved the out-takes.

[@tittersbike]

I tend you use more back brake than usual when I’m coming to a stop, it stops the front diving so much so I get less head butts 😀

[@alastairwinner]

Great advise. The only additional thing I asked my wife to do was to take a rider course herself, just so she had some idea of what its like to be the rider and in case she had to move the bike in an emergency. Result was she now has her own bike, which is even better than riding two up!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good idea!

[@ikemenmen]

Have been riding for nearly 10 years and only just had my first passenger. Just two trips to the supermarket. He's keen on more so I'm doing research.

[@5coaly]

I pillioned for a couple of years going on tours. Hubby has a Triumph 1200 Explorer. Other points to note was to lean with the bike when cornering and most important of all...give the pillion the larger pannier when travelling !! 🤣🤣 I enjoyed it at first but got fed up with it and decided to take a bike test and get my own bike! Now I have plenty of my own luggage space! 👍🏻

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Very cool!

[@bmwgsblackgus7636]

Very helpful advice ,you have a lovely chemistry on the screen. My wife and I really enjoyed your holiday motorcycle videos . You made us laugh it was like a sitcom lol

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you kindly! Another tour series with us both coming soon!

[@MrVintagecyclist]

Having ridden as a full "A" licence holder since 2019, I've taken a pillion on four occasions. The first time was a nightmare. But I'm improving. I noticed at 1:58 that Mr Flyer didn't have his feet flat on the floor (when Mrs Flyer mounted bike). I was advised always to have both feet flat on floor (for stability) This video is brilliant.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you (trouble is I cant get both feet flat on the floor!)

[@PCERules]

All great tips, great bloopers too & Mrs TMF... patience of a saint. My Mrs’ swears by the bowl of water style analogy. Her favourite phrase is, I’m not psychic!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

So true!

[@teneretraveller8980]

Excellent topic team flyer. Mrs Traveller loves riding on the back, and we very much work as a team, and this includes when off the bike. She does the tolls and Passport handing over sat on the back while I hold the bike up. At the start of the day she packs the pannier liners while I take the locks off the bike and check it over. When we check in she cleans visors while I lock up and secure everything. On a long tour it's important to have a day or two off the bike and do wifey type things. They might need a break. And finally Brett Tckacs has a superb mount and dismount video on mototrek vlog. Simple, but so effective. Enough waffle. Happy travels

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes all good advice - TT....love "Team Flyer" too!

[@SuperGizzzmo]

Hi Andy, just an update after passing my module one I’ve booked my mod 2 I’ve passed this morning. 2 miners 🏍🏍🏍🏍🏍🏍🏍🏍🏍🏍🏍🏍🏍. Just really wanted to say a big thank you for all the hard work you put in your videos. And without definitely sounding too cheeky I absolutely love your videos I would definitely love a shout out. David Keep up the good work and once again Ride safe 😊

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

W'hey brilliant news David!! Bet you're chuffed....take it easy, ride safe and welcome to biking!

[@thebikingamateur6237]

As always, excellent advice. Hardest part for me were the uphill starts.

[@great2c4me]

How about you, did you find yourself getting saddle sore far more sooner with a passenger? what's the fix?

[@thebikingamateur6237]

@@great2c4me I do. Riding alone, I can ‘move around’ on the saddle, not possible with 2up. Solution: more stops.

[@Trevor_Austin]

Top tips there Mr & Mrs Flyer. It’s really good to see a couple being able to enjoy a their partner’s if not a common interest.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Trevor!

[@tazmansa6198]

Carrying a pillion is awesome if they understand what to do, thanks for this great vid Mr & Mrs TMF. Now in my family, if there is even half a chance to ride with me on my BMer (whether it's my wife, son, daughter and future daughter-in-law), they jump at the chance to do so :), now that is the proof of the freedom you feel when you ride!!

[@bootz0409]

What a lucky man to have that gorgeous woman hanging on to you! Don't forget to check tyre pressure because some bikes advise different pressure when carrying a pillion. Great vid. Very helpful, easy going, informative and entertaining . Thankyou. ✌️😉

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Gad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching!

[@joernlindstaedt7731]

Great summary and presentation. The one thing I tell my PAX is to stay close, attached to the rider... especially on bigger bikes there could be quite a gap between rider and a smaller pillion and such disconnect makes the riding pretty unpleasant. So don’t hesitate and ask the pillion to get closer and stay ‚attached‘! Considering there is a already a level of trust between rider and pillion, you as a rider should be comfortable to ask 🤓

[@jhaifley]

Could you explain what is unpleasant about it if the passenger is not touching the rider?

[@joernlindstaedt7731]

@@jhaifley Hi Jesse, thanks for the question… it’s about the handling of the bike which feels unpleasant … the ‘disconnection’ can cause the bike to become unstable…I suppose it also depends how experienced the pillion is… Greetings from Germany 🥨🍻, Jörn

[@paulbeamon]

Awesome, loved your very practical tips. Going to show my wife, who indecently loves riding

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Please do!

[@craigmayall7513]

Well, rather good timing Andy! My better half just went on the back of my bike today. First time. She loved the video and thinks you are both great. There ya go. An instant success. Thanks guys :)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

That's awesome Craig! How did the Mrs get on on the bike??

[@craigmayall7513]

She loved it. I was amazed!! Thanks guys. Keep the videos coming.

[@subman6515]

The outtakes are awesome Mr Flyer... I've tried to explain the "no intercom" scenario as well and i couldn't stop laughing while doing it!!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Tricky ground!!

[@joecorrie384]

This video is incredible!! Solid and super clear advice.....the humour was cracking me up too!! hahaha

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad you liked it Joe!

[@RICHARD10195]

My top tip for someone who you take as a pillion regularly get them to read the road like they are riding especially looking for hazards and overtakes less of a surprise when you drop a gear and go for the overtake. I used to have to tap my wife’s leg to warn her now I know she’s watching and she’s not fallen off the back yet no matter how hard I try 😂

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Indeed - as I think I said!

[@JKWheeler]

Thank you Carol for being such a good sport! This was a great video - I plan to share it with my special passenger!

[@Kalsino]

I LOVE IT, what fabulous video you did there with Mrs. Flyer, I can't get get enough of when you two make a video together. It's a fantastic video, I new on a motorcycle and having a passenger with me is gonna be a new challenge for me. So that said, I really enjoyed your absolutely fantastic video about that. Yours sincerely The Danish Viking 🇩🇰 ☀️ ❤️ 😎

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you so much - more of Mrs Flyer coming soon!!

[@nickthurston2299]

My wife and eldest daughter often ride pillion with me. We have a tactile code. To check if they are ok I usually reach back and tap their left knee, if all ok they just squeeze their knees into me. A double tap means to get ready for some faster riding (overtake etc) . My best wheelie ever ( and my only one officer) was filtering through to the front of a queue with my wife on the back of my Blackbird. When we were near the front the lights went green and as the front two cars pulled away they drifted towards each other, closing my gap. A handful of throttle in 2nd on an 1100cc bike with a pillion produces an interesting result! A swift punch in the kidneys and the comment "if you ever do that again...." put me straight. That was about 18 years ago. Never pulled a wheelie since.....honest. Nearly forgot, hurry up with the Goldwing video, it's one of the bikes on my list to replace my Tiger 1200 next year.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Great story Nick - thanks - Goldwing tour videos start on October the 15th - sorry for the wait! Less than a month away though!!!

[@ftelarico]

For my wife and me, an intercom is a must; it's great to share the ride together and we have some of our most enjoyable conversations while on the bike. And, we never seem to say anything to piss the other off while riding,,, too much at stake. Well-done vid, you covered some great points. The one point I'd make if using intercom is to have an understanding up front, the passenger must control any tendency to make gasping or screaming noises :D

[@Gijserklh]

A good thing is the topbox! Very nice for the passenger 😁

[@M4BoarBiker]

After 15 years of biking i still haven't had the nerve to take a pillion, I'm too afraid she may like it 😅 Loving those outtakes at the end.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Well it can be a double edged sword this one!

[@benwathen7115]

It's really helpful for the pillion to grip with the knees!...helps stop the headbutts 🙂

[@trevb1922]

Great Video TMS.. hit on all the right stuff. Nothing worse than passenger who wiggles, shifts around while you're moving. I tell them set it and forget it until I tap your leg to let you know its ok..

[@allanmethven9238]

Been riding for many years now and my better half has been a pillion on many occasions.Trouble is she falls asleep.So coms are a great thing providing you keep talking to prevent this ..

[@gregbabcock]

At the beginning of the riding season I take a few solo rides to get reacquainted with the bike before I take a pillion with me. As for the rest, you and Carol covered it nicely! Cheers :D

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good advice! Thanks....

[@great2c4me]

@@TheMissendenFlyer How about you blokes, did you ever find yourself getting saddle sore far more sooner with a passenger? what's the fix? My ass hurts 30 minutes in. Cheers 2015 fj09 tracer, Sargeant seat

[@Pandora882]

Love the new film with Mrs Flyer and her "beautiful assistant"

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Why thank you Jon [blush]

[@robgutteridge1649]

A great video and tips as usual. The GSA with top box and panniers can be quite a challenge to the new pillion getting on and off but once on they do offer additional protection and assurance. A recent dismount ended with my other half landing on her derriere right outside the pub, thank goodness for full face helmets! Now, I put down the side stand and get off while hers truly slides down onto the riders seat and swings her leg over without the top box obstacle! Thanks Mr & Mrs TMF

[@rockingrodders8551]

The belts with handles on that the rider wears are great for pillions in my opinion..Handles on the Hips..Top Tip..Stay Safe..✌🏻

[@rachelhayes5728]

Loving the vids Mr.Flyer, learning a lot as an older 125 scoot beginner. I also love being pillion with experienced , mature riders on grown up bikes .... One or two things I have found out that pillions, (ladies in particular) , might find useful ... * Learn to pack into one pannier and half a top box .... although room is almost always found for the more interesting items of your underwear , the extra pair of shoes will be forcibly ejected. * Learn to be up , dressed, packed and ready to go in two minutes flat , especially if you are granted dispensation to join the boys on a Sunday morning breakfast ride out .... a very great honour indeed . * Absolutely no whingeing .... wear those thermals , wear those waterproofs , buy the helmet with the sun visor , carry the spare gloves , keep your Daytonas waxed .... Out think him on every possibility ! * If you know you will struggle to mount/dismount , ask him to park away from all the other bikers to give you privacy whilst you slip sideways to the floor with all the grace of a sack of spuds ... then send him on so you can saunter casually around the corner to join him . * Watch his body language ... relaxed arms and shoulders ... great ! A sudden stiffening and lean forward ... brace yourself ... no spotty whippersnapper on a sports bike will be passing him !! * Last , but not least , relax and enjoy the experience . Show him you are happy and comfortable by squeezing his sides gently or patting his thighs when stopped in traffic or at lights. No tummy tickling though ... MUCH too distracting ! It is a privilege to ride as pillion , so always show your appreciation by not woodpecking and chipping his shiny , new helmet and fill him with tea and cake at every available pit stop. Hopefully , you'll be allowed back on and not left 'by accident' at the motorway services ! Joking aside , the best compliment I've had as a pillion is literally, ' I didn't know you was there ' ... job done !

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for that!

[@Scootir185]

Really nice video. I really enjoyed hearing both the rider and pillion perspectives.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@dubdario120]

Well done me and Mrs flyer,a great contribution to motorcycling 👍,ps love that bsa t shirt !

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@bobwampler3387]

Your wife is a keeper. Nice that you can share this passion.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

30 years and counting....

[@anthonyfox2836]

V good. Funny and informative. What we all require as we navigate thru this Pandemic. Great bike for two up I imagine. We had an Africa Twin 750 and did many trips from Dublin to Glasgow, London, Rome, Athens. The drawback was exactly what you pointed out - fork dive and underpowered. Looking forward to picking up a GS. Thanks Mr & Mrs Fly!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for watching Anthony!

[@macraemorse]

Good video. Not many people cover this topic. I would only add that the pillion should consider the driver as the captain of the ship. :)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Well said!

[@davesears8248]

My wife and I ride all over Europe (or we did). Last 4 years on my 800XCa now traded for the GT Pro. Only rode from Kent to Somerset on that so far. Anyway being in our mid fifties some parts of the body can go a bit numb/dead on a long ride. So I always give my wife a chance to stand up on her pegs and get the circulation going again before dismounting. We learnt this the hard way with her hanging off the bike and me trying to hold the whole lot up!

[@allenglishknives6823]

Great video and a subject not often covered. Mrs Flyer did very well 👍🏻

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you!

[@marcoluoma3770]

What a timely video! My Mrs and I have thousands of miles together with her on back, but the new-to-me GS causes her no end of problems mounting and dismounting. Seeing Carol's perfectly executed mounting maneuver at 2:00 is exactly what we needed. Thanks! (Agree about developing hand signals. E.g., double tap on her left knee means I'm about to pass (overtake) a slower vehicle and she's ready. )

[@nicktdm5703]

Yup...takes a while for passenger to get used to the height when standing on the rear pegs...especially with luggage

[@randallsguaranteedsold6361]

Excellent review! Appreciate both perspectives… one thing to mention (that I noticed you also have) is that you have your top box on *with a cushion” Always want to ensure that our passenger is comfortable… and final thought for those with deep pockets: get a 2021 Honda Goldwing with an armchair in the back…

[@Dan-56]

Nice to see your “Lovely Young Assistant” featured in your videos 😉👍. One bit of advise I’ve always given first time passengers is to look over my shoulder in the direction of a curve or corner, this seems to prevent the first time rider wanting to lean the wrong direction or trying to stay vertical in corner 😜🏍👍.

[@tonykisvardai2346]

That’s always worked for me too.

[@Thewoodmiester]

This is a great video. I recently purchased a new BMW S1000XR after trading in for my Yamaha Tracer 900GT and my wife is now coming out with me. I do a lot of what you say as a rider and she’s not too bad as a pillion but it’s great to see what Mrs Flyer has to say. Some brilliant points from both rider and Pillion. Cheers

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Great stuff - glad you found it of interest!

[@martinfoster5163]

Great video. I agree with everything except “don’t expect to carry a lot of luggage”. The wife-to-be and I ride together on tours in Asia. We took a full compliment of camping gear.

[@robertburwood7299]

Did you mention adjusting tyre pressures? Also Oxford make a belt with handles for a pillion to hold that my wife loves. I also tell my pillion to look over my inside shoulder when cornering as it helps them get in the right position. Your tip on having the pillion get off for turning the bike around is very valid, slow speed stuff is trickier than the high speed stuff with a passenger.

[@fazerjohn]

Great video, I am planning a long tour 2-up for the 1st time and this was very helpful. Thanks.

[@human1513]

Enjoyed the video. This passenger, Carol added a new bit of comic, funny parts which was 👍 great

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cool, thanks!

[@nigelbradshaw8266]

Good vid thanks. I’ve taken pillions on four completely different bikes and I have to say I really don’t like doing it, I find it affects the handling so much and reduces the sense of freedom that we love about riding to the extent that I don’t enjoy the ride.

[@ollygibson8397]

Great vid, an often overlooked subject. My tip would be, have a chat with your pillion before you set off, things like dont fight the lean on corners, go with the flow of the bike and for the rider go easy on the breaks and throttle or expect lots of headbutts and a pillion refusing a second outing.

[@MayorofDipshittery-lq7if]

Was once on the back of my mates TL1000R, he knew to slow down when he saw my ankles pass his head 😱😱😱😱😱 he was the only guy I'd go on a bike with, we covered lots of mile in uk and the continent. The TL event happened back in the early 90's.

[@timmo3351]

Nodrogthe1 TL1000R came out in 98, think your memory is fading!!!

[@travelinben1966]

Excellent tips!Thank you Mr. and Mrs.Flyer.👍👍👏👏👏👏👏

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Our pleasure!

[@edwardsp1916]

Very useful, thank you. I've purchased a Tricity 300 and can now carry a pillion (have include this in the insurance). Your video has made clear the points to consider, thank you to Mrs and Mr TMF.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Our pleasure….

[@VFactory-vl5fi]

No need to speak to the Wife whilst on the motorcycle. After all, that’s why we escape to the roads in the first place 😂 Love it Andy!! 💪🏼🤣🤣🤣

[@jorislefevre5329]

I find it easier for the passenger to mount the bike with the bike on the sidestand, the rider next to the bike holding the handlebar (just for more sense of safety) and the pillion to sit on the bike like they would ride but then slide to the back seat. The rider has to be flexible to trow the leg straight over the riders seat though. To dismount: bike on the sidestand, the rider off the bike and holding one side of the handlebar and the pillion slides to the rider's seat and gets off the bike. In Belgium I learned that the pillion has to hold the rider and not the handles on the side; this being that when something happens and the rider jumps off the bike the pillion follows, as well as the pillion will follow the rider's movement more in corners and such. I also prefer it more to have contact with the pillion at all time just to know I didn't lost them and you can somehow tell if they are comfortable by their grip while holding you.

[@rumien1383]

Sound advice all round. Smooth throttle control , and for the pillion, lean with the bike. 👍🏻

[@gogsalba4573]

Not the actual first time but my girl didn't have much experience as a pillion until we went on a multi country tour to Poland and back... we sorted all the do's and don'ts of how to ride together.... proper proud of her... one thing i would add is if you are a pillion and you get a bit out of shape, slid forward or are needing a stretch etc.. wait until the bike is upright on a straight and sort yourself out then... not on bends or whilst coming down the Furka pass for example :-) ...another for those pillions with mobility issues is that you can get on the bike whilst its on the side stand using the riders pegs and the handle bars , then slide back onto your seat.. the rider can then get on.... worked for us anyway....

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good advice!

[@rodgerdodger1625]

As pointed out you must tell your insurance if you take a passenger. I am looking for a second bike for going two up, and it's worth remembering that a lot of dealers will allow you to take a demo bike out carrying a passenger, although I would suggest taking the bike out on your own first. A top box in my opinion is essential, but not for everyone, and I always get the pillion to mount the bike after I have got on so I can ensure I am capable of dealing with the extra mass at standstill or heaven forbid something unexpected happens which causes you to stop suddenly. It is always worth educating your passenger that if this ever does happen and the bike starts to lean over that if they lean the opposite way it will help the rider keep the bike upright instead of laying her down. Luckily my passenger is an avid rider herself, but she has mentioned that for two up riding to work the passenger must have total confidence and trust in the person riding the bike. The last thing is that you should adjust your tyre pressures when taking a passenger in accordance with your bike's manual.

[@michaelreed8206]

Nice and informative video, I recently came back from IOM, TT were I had a pillion on my Daytona 675, I made a few small modifications which helped especially as the weather was dreadful , a none slip seat stopped pillion sliding into me reducing fatigue from gripping and extra load on arms etc. Also I lowered the rear foot pegs which made for a more comfortable position and I guess lowering centre of gravity slightly due to pillions leg’s being lower not around their ears 😂 That’s Just a couple of things I found helpful Ride safe 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks - great tips!

[@landedzentry]

-After stopping pull away strongly with good acceleration otherwise you can wobble. You might have to let the vehicle in front go ahead further than you normally would before setting off. -Work out a "Stop right now!" signal for the passenger. ....3 thigh squeeze/3 anything works!!! Very useful -ty.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Great tips!

[@ritchsuk1840]

This was a good video - I still remember how nervous I was taking pillions for the first time, some excellent constructive advice given :)

[@andrewgibbs5135]

Well done Mrs Flyer and such a good video 👍 The one and only time that my Wife rode pillion was 43 years ago, a comedy of errors ! We could have used your advice back then 🤔