EVERYONE! I now have my own MotoJitsu App, 4 books on Amazon, various merch, discounts, etc. including all the links to my riding gear, courses, Instagram and so on. linktr.ee/GregWidmar
My Dad always told me when you learn something new on a bike, try it offroad first, if you can handle that, there's nothing the pavement will throw at you that you won't be ready for. That's not always true, but I figured I'd share it, I miss the old man :)
i feel you my dad teached me how to ride a dirtbike in the roughest place ever it was like a enduro trail but im glad he did i can now ride anywhere my dad passed away this year i surely miss my pops :(
My ex-husband and I had a great marriage for the first half and a troubled marriage for the last half. But one thing remained consistent throughout. I rode pillion for many years behind him, and I trusted him completely. Riding behind him on his Gold Wing (the Highway Easy Chair) is among my best memories.
One of the best passengers I ever had was blind. He was a Vietnam Vet who ask me to take him to veterans rally. People were all smiles when he got off and unfolded his stick.
Thanks for this updated video. I watched your original before taking my son on the back (he's 9), just his little weight alone made such a difference and I was glad to have watched your video to explain to him what he needed to do. He did great and loved it! Thanks again.
First thing I tell any passenger. Don’t help me, don’t counter lean, don’t make sudden weight shifts when we’re going slow. If you adjust your weight back there when we’re going slow, you’ll cause us to veer and possibly crash.
Great advice and lovely control. Back when I rode often in the 1980's and 90's our bike seats were generally a lot flatter front to rear, not stepped up as much at the rear like they are nowadays and I think this makes the job of the pillion rider more difficult today than back then. What I used to tell them was to squish up fairly close, my back needs to feel their tummy being pushed into me and those little pebbles, but with their hips tilted down so that the bum tilted slightly up to the rear - just stuck back up a bit. Next was to preferably ignore the grabrail (that's for strapping luggage down). Rather, they should put their arms around me under mine and gently clasp hands down and to the front of me or better still, rest them lightly on the rear of the tank. Then, to relax and be loose, the more they're like a sack of potatoes the better, yet be aware of where they're going to, in other words look over the driver/rider's shoulder to the inside of the bend, not to the outside of it. People who followed that last where-to-look advice were great passengers and became naturals. Your first passenger in the clip was doing exactly that kind of looking. My best such pillion could handle a peg scrape to the left and de-skinning the 4 into 1 exhaust on the right.
one of the most useful ones I have ever seen on any channel on riding with a passenger. Thank you Greg. PS. Got the Shut Up and Practice t-shirt, love it!
Although I have a touring bike, I use my mainly bike as a daily commuter. Before we do a weekend or other trip 2-up, we always do a quick spin around town and parking lot drills. This get me (and us) practiced and ready for the trip.
Thank you. Been riding for almost two years and a few weeks ago I had a passenger for the first time. All went well, I/we applied most of your advice. Now we know how to improve the ride for safety.
Great video 👍. I've had plenty of different pillions over the years and everything this guy says is bang on right. Love the drills he's showing and complete control even with that extra weight on the bike. Hats off to the pillions for not freaking out but having complete trust in the riders ability. Always increase braking distances and remember you are responsible for the pillions safety.
The biggest issue is 'countersteering', or when the passenger leans towards the opposite side in a turn, just as a natural impulse. Also, I have a little belt thing that can be used to attach the passenger to me. It doesn't actually help with anything, but it makes them feel safer.
Yup, be the passenger of a skilled and experienced rider. Who am i going to gain experience on riding with a passenger if every passenger thinks like that?
I've been riding 27 years now, the first time I rode my lady a few years back, I let go of the bars and rode with no hands. Its something thats second nature with me. She had a fit and ordered me to pull over and that she will walk
My brother almost got in an accident with a bad passenger. As soon as they hit the highway she panicked. I guess screaming loudly and squeezing him ridiculously hard. He went to take the nearest exit and she leaned the opposite way of the bike and held onto him so tight it was not letting him steer the bike well. Almost went wide into the guardrail but lucky was able to hold it together. He's never taken a passenger again lol.
Another technique I’ve read about is to ask your passenger to be your backpack. Stay with the rider, always. I’ve done it that way and it works well but I do think Greg’s technique is better. Can’t wait to try!
Years ago I was asked if I could take a young pillion rider, by his parents. I said no for all of the above reasons you stated. The parents took it the wrong way, however I didn't care as I knew that I was doing the correct and safe thing.
The passemger has more control as to where the bike is going. Tell the passenger to stay with you not to lean opposite of you. This is especially important in a turn. I had a gf make the bike go straight in a right hand curve and put us into oncoming traffic. Lucky I have riden a number of years and got us back into the correct lane.
2:19 Exactly! Before you are ready to take a passenger you actually care about, you must first practice with someone whom you wouldn't mind too much if they got injured, like your ex-girlfriend, a telemarketer, or your mother in-law
Interesting.I was a beginner rider.I had a passenger who does not ride MC.On a 3/4 turn I lost control and swerved to a fall.I asked her what she was trying to do while we were leaning.Of course I have no idea.But with a heavier passenger who rides a MC I have no problem balancing.Your video helped me to better understand that.That was 7 years ago and I have been so wary riding with a passenger.We make a contract.Donot move and stay close so we are 1 unit when making a turn.That helped.
I actually prefair my passenger to move with me. Like not anticipate my movement and suddently leaning (as you said, thats the worse), but like just hold onto me and follow me as if we’re one. I had full neutral “rock” passangers and follow me passenger, and i’ll take them every day.
WOW. THERE IS NO BETTER WAY TO SAY IT OR SHOW IT. I HAVE TOLD PEOPLE BEFORE THE PASSENGER DOES NOT MOVE. JUST STAY ON THE SEAT AND DO WHAT THE BIKE DOES. THIS VIDEO IS PROOF OF WHAT I HAVE BEEN TELLING PEOPLE IN THE PAST. THANKS FOR SHOWING THIS. 👍
@@andyostertag no need to apologize. If you are a non rider then I wouldn't be riding a passenger. That comment was for a passenger only. And I wouldn't ride a passenger with out explaining the process.
I've had so many passenger's that turn opposite of me in a turn so they can see, or think it's helping the bike stick lol. I rarely take a passenger anymore unless the bike has a backrest, or bars for them to grab, that tends to be a huge difference in how they act back there.
love this informative clip. It is definitely a good refresh course. Greg, I learned a lot from you in the past 2 years, watching and practicing for hours...
If the wife/girlfriend/FWB refuses to listen to what you say, DON'T ALLOW HER TO RIDE WITH YOU. I did that mistake, she almost took me to the ground. She would get her weight on one side of the bike, not grab on to me, i had to constantly give her sign to grab me, would jump on the bike without warning, would get up on the seat randomly... And worse of all, when told she did something wrong she would fight back! A stupid passenger is the most dangerous cargo you can carry.
Great video and good skills. I’ve been riding over 50 years and personally I prefer my passenger to hold on to me rather than the bike. Having been a pillion on sports bikes, I find many lack the strength to fully hold on during mass acceleration, especially during sudden acceleration. Top box excluded of course. Otherwise awesome video and really liked the woman pillion section with her perspective.
I was lucky to have some common sense and basic understanding of physics on my first pillion ride. I had never rode a bike, never rode with someone, or ever thought of riding one. My first time was maybe 3 months ago, I was shooting a marathon and we had the local MC providing transportation around the track. Unfortunately, the rider I was put on with, didn't give me any instructions, just told me to grab tight and go with the flow. That's what I did, facing the rear and shooting with both hands. Kind of extreme, I must say. After that, I grew a thing for bikes and here I am now. Thanks Eddie, for all your videos and for the time you use up making them.
That was a good video, so smooth with a passenger. Okay I definitely need more time and a lot more practice, sounds fun though! Thank you for these videos👍
All great advice! but I would like to add a few things, and they are depending non your muffler system or setup, and that being a very hot point that can cause serious burns mainly to the passenger's calf area while getting off and on the bike, I use a Titanium aftermarket muffler which will not cause a serious burn even after hard riding. and on my older model bikes, both the rider and passenger were seated at the same level and this made carrying a passenger fairly easy with them close to the rider's body making hanging on easy and the tank was used by them when the rider was braking if needed, but due to how most motorcycles are manufactured these days the rear passenger seat is set back and way higher so if your pillion does lean or move aggressively it is very noticeable and can have a large effect on the bike ( a large male comes to mind who is drunk).another point is if your passenger is getting thrown backward and forwards constantly and even causing helmets the bump! then it is probably due to your gear shifting, acceleration, and braking not being smooth or poorly synchronized, many riders are unaware of this fact probably due to them having handlebars to hang on to or never being a passenger when a super smooth rider is in control because the difference huge even when the bike is been ridden hard and fast or in heavy traffic! Another point would be to never ride anywhere near your limits like you might do while riding solo! the last point is as a passenger choose very carefully who you get on the back with as it can easily be a matter of life and death as motorcycle riders come in many different degrees of riding ability from the showoff the inexperienced the high-risk taker and the downright dangerous and the highly skilled very safe rider and everything in between, and this should become apparent after a very short time as a passenger so get ask them to please stop so you can get off the bike if need be because you feel the rider is dangerous, etc! as this won't happen if the rider is experienced and takes safety first!
I'll be happy to learn at least half as much as you can. Now I will start on the KTM Duke 125 and it will be new to me because until now I have only ridden off-road
bro I used to ride a 200cc motorbike and three of my friends as passengers behind me (*_*).I was literally riding while sitting on the gas tank. the question is how to convince them to stay calm while they are having a serious conversation on a motorbike and no one of us wears helmets or safety gear.
Biggest thing is know that your reaction time to EVERYTHING is going to be slower, and even if you preload the rear you *STILL* might touch down more than you think....
I love your skill And your teachings and amazing!!!. I like to remind people although this high skill is something nice and amazing to aim at, it is not required in order to be a safe and good motorcyclist, mastering simple maneuvers that are predictable in all environments is key. Don’t risk your bike and injuries doing this in non-control environments. Know your limitations and stay conservative specially in long trips.
Generally good advice, but telling a newbie passenger, "don't move" is going to put fear in them and reduce their enjoyment. Better to explain to them that less movement is better, but they can't do anything that you/I can't manage. If you can't deal with their movement, you need to be better. (50 years safe riding talking)
I've had passengers lean the opposite way. Holy shit. One time I had to stop immediately and give her some very stringent instruction. We were way cool after that. She even leaned back and wrapped her legs around me. The dead weight was great and easy to ride. She got on and off straight up without pulling me off the bike. Just give your passenger some instruction and the ride will be great.
I downloaded your app and used it to keep myself on track with my skills for riding. During riding season, (I live in Utah, so there's an off-season) I went from having 100 miles under my belt (first year) with no ability for slow-speed maneuvering to 8000 miles and being able to get level 2 parking spaces. My issue is that I haven't practiced enough for getting my knee down. And I know, don't focus on one thing. That's just the first goal that comes to mind. I'm upgrading from my cb500x (first bike) to an R6, R1, ZX6R, or ZX10R. Haven't decided yet. I feel confident enough to jump to a 600 or 1000. So, once the season starts, I'm going to ride my cb500x for a little bit and freshen up my skills, then purchase my next bike and see what slow-speed maneuvering I can get down on there. I love my 500, but I'd rather not be limited with power. It's not that I want to sit at 16k rpms all the time, but rather, I want the ability to get myself out of a situation where a car is trying to run me over for lane filtering (that has happened) or anything else that might happen. Also, don't worry, I wear full gear even in hot weather. I'd rather be as safe as I can be, rather than riding squid. Anyways, sorry for the long comment. Just wanted you to know that you've inspired and helped another fellow rider.
Fun isn't it!! I would look into an upright bike like a Street Triple..full blow sport bikes with clip ons are the absolute worse bikes for street riding...most uncomfortable and impractical. The Street Triple RS for example has awesome brakes, suspension and tires OEM plus the comfort of a handlebar. I wouldn't over look it.
@@MotoJitsu Thanks for the advice! I completely forgot about that! Test rode an R6 a couple months back. I was only on it for about 10 minutes and my back was killing me.
@@garret6121 I've gotta agree with him on this. I started on a Ninja 300, which was pretty comfortable. Then got a ZX6R, which I love and is a blast, but it sucked for commuting. I just got an MT-09 for riding to work, and I love every single second I'm on the bike, even when I got caught in a windy rain storm on it. The naked bikes are FAR more comfortable
Back when I first turned 17, I got my riders permit. I swear from the day I learned how to ride, to now. The one thing that’s always been my peeve is the way people hold onto me. I don’t care if you’re a dude or a chick. DONT HOLD ONTO A RIDERS SHOULDER. I almost died once when I was 19. I gave a chick friend a ride home from college. During an acceleration from a red light, she freaked out and grabbed my shoulders instead of my waist. We both almost got ran over by a truck making a right turn after falling over. 🤦♂️
it's the rider's responsibility to tell the passenger what to do or not to do...if they're not able or unwilling to do that, don't take them, which is also the rider's choice.
That’s kind of what I meant in my comment lol. I was 19, and didn’t know that the chick would grab my shoulder. What I’m saying here is, if a person freaks out on a rider, just don’t grab the shoulders. 🤷♂️
I am rid8ng mt09 tracer 2018, manual suspension serring.. Set for 2 up... End up always r8de together with wife.. Feel not so uncomfortable riding alone... As feel so bumpy, not so confidence especially cornering... Thats how important the suspension setup are for motorbike
I been on several long trips with my girlfriend, she is an amazing passenger and she also rides. We've been to Tail of the Dragon and always search for the twistiest roads. We have experimented on the road and we are faster through the turns when she also leans. When she is like a rock the bike feels slow to turn in and it feels like a bike that just weighs more and is out of balance. When she moves with me the bike leans less and we can go faster. Its like I'm heavier and the bike is still awesome. She knows to lean when we are at speed and to stay still when we slow maneuver and come to a stop. We have Senas and Cardos so we communicate, I'll ask her to counter lean with me when I want to make a tighter U turn, like on a narrow road. I much prefer a dynamic load and she loves to push us faster. Also its good to get some kind of headsets so you can talk to each other. Its hard to hear the screams over the wind and engine noise. With a headset you can reassuringly tell your passenger that its normal to go this fast.
Only thing I can add is: when mounting make them mount 1st while you hold the front brake, when dismounting dismount 1st grab the brake then they can get off easier
I thought the best thing was to have the pillion hug your back rather than try to stay still as a rock. That way if you do some serious CS swerves they're not going to be thrown from side to side.
When I was on pavilion I used to sometimes close my eyes , relax and go with the bike, obviously only do this if its safe but it does stop you leaning the opposite way when cornering.
3:30 - this so much. I keep seeing these videos saying the pillion should echo what the rider is doing & I'm like why? The rider is used to the bike handling with his or her own weight leaning. They're used to riding with cargo too, most likely, if they've ever been on a long trip. They won't be used to 150lbs swinging about unpredictably or adding to their weight. Sit still & let us do what we need.
One thing I notice is on a big heavy bike carrying weight doesn't have as much affect compared to a smaller lighter bike, on the lighter bike the same weight is more noticeable.
Here's the previous video I have on passenger riding: ua-cam.com/video/YfS4aRI6if8/v-deo.html ua-cam.com/video/MIdCq5vHRp8/v-deo.html ua-cam.com/video/2iln25liMzo/v-deo.html ua-cam.com/video/vJwAqrgKIPs/v-deo.html
The Hardest thing with a passenger for me is Braking, braking distance is alot farther since i dont want them getting thrown into me, as soon as they start sliding into me, i know im braking too fast 😆 Passenger comfort is priority, otherwise they wont want to ride with you or anyone again 😆 preload on the rear shocks is super important too 😀
@@MotoJitsu True, thats unavoidable when the need to stop immediately arises, i just meant for cruising around 😀 smoother shifts, smoother stops and gradual acceleration lets my passengers enjoy the ride alot more 😸
Whenever I ride with my girl friend she always moves a lot for no reason. I feel like swinging my elbow at her jaw at 90 kmph speed in bike. Definitely gonna share her this video
I think passager weight makes a difference. Especially when its heavier than rider. Like im 170lbs and i take my 80lbs daughter and its no problems at all. But if i take my friend at 240lbs.. bike handles terrrible. Also im on r6 so not great for 2up. And i don't do any suspension adjustments for 2up
I tell all pillions not to get on or off without telling me first so that i can get ready. I also ask them to stay inline with my body whilst going around corners.
I set my suspension a little stiff for when I pick up a girl at the bar. I always tell them to keep their feet on the pegs no matter what. I also tell them to keep their shoulders squarely behind mine
in my country (slovakia) when you do the driving course you have the instructor sitting on the back of the bike where he has a secondary handle bar with clutch and brakes, it's really terrifying to learn to ride like that edit: but to be fair it's only when we go out into the traffic, we don't do that on the training grounds
im probably never going to own a bike but if I did i'm never going to try any of the techniques used in the demo lol. It's a good demonstration. When I do get a bike and have ridden for awhile, I will have some confidence of having a passenger, as long as they are geared of course; and are a good passenger lol. It could be a good training tool, I'm more willing to take risks for myself, than putting someone else in danger due to my driving. Even in a car with passenger, I am not showing off, I am not having too much fun, my priorty is everyone's safety..If I get into a accident who cares, but if I walk away and someone else gets hurt... I can't live with that. With that said, if you have not ride with 110% precautions, awareness, and confidence I believe it is better to ride alone. I'm sure idiot will ignore this logic but I stand by this statement, driving with passengers should make you a better driver, not worse.
Hey big thx for the video. I was wondering if you have a video with what the basic excersises are that you recommend to do as often as you can or if you could make one. I know it's kind of selfish but I think a lot of new riders would appreciate. Just as I would. thanks and good luck
check out this channel. so many viedos with basic exercises. He also has booklets and an app. Worth the investment! I'm over 60 and continue to improve with his drills. He has a patch on his jacket "Shut Up and Practice". Best motorcycle advice I've ever been given.
01:15 “Riding is 38 times more dangerous than driving. You are 38 times more likely to die riding than driving.” [paraphrased]. Since I first took my police motorcycle course in 1977 this is a _very_ sobering statistic that I was unaware of.
I watched a couple of your videos about riding with passenger and I still have a question I haven't find an answer yet. I am a tiny lady and I ride a z650. Here in Sweden the driving license exam is pretty tough and to access to the final test you need to complete risk2, one full day of risk and security riding with the driving school. There I did so many cool things in controlled environment like hard breaking 120 km/h, riding with no hands apart for pushing handler when counter-steering, riding with a bad passenger. I had as a passenger another tiny lady like me, and she was supposed to do bad things like bending the wrong side during curves and other scary things. Gosh that was good learning as I promised myself to never take a passenger. But time passed, got my license, drove 4500 km, and I decided to take my bf on the back (he rides too so he is a good passenger) but he is way heavier than me, like I am less than 60 kg he is 90. And oh my god it was so different compared when I rode with the skinny girl in the school. I couldn't even move the bike! I felt the bike was so heavy I was scared of wheeling! my question is, is it me with too little experience or is it better not to have passenger heavier than the rider? Sorry for the long essay and thanks so much for your fantastic content!
What I usually tell passengers who havent been on a motocycle before is to just sit, try not to move more than you have to, that im never riding fast enough that a shift in weight from a passenger could take control from me anyway, but try not to make any jerky movements. Then i tell them to pretend they have a glass of water on their head. Just because keeping your head level while the bike is leaning over makes it alot less scary feeling, and a comfortable passenger is a world of difference from a scared and stiff one. Assurance is really important Other than that I prepare myself that the passenger will want to look over my shoulder and look around generally (i mean its exciting to them right), and that is probably going to make turning one way or another a bit heavier than usual. Usually I change the suspension settings a bit, not because of handling but because it causes my lights to hit cars straight in the face. Oh and I usually go over the "bear hug" thing where if we need to break you place one hand on the tank so I dont get hit by the full weight of my passenger. Great video though, agree with everything here :D
I ride a cruiser and I would rather have the passenger become one with me. When I lean I want them to lean as if they are glued to me. I have found I can handle the bike much better.
EVERYONE! I now have my own MotoJitsu App, 4 books on Amazon, various merch, discounts, etc. including all the links to my riding gear, courses, Instagram and so on. linktr.ee/GregWidmar
My Dad always told me when you learn something new on a bike, try it offroad first, if you can handle that, there's nothing the pavement will throw at you that you won't be ready for. That's not always true, but I figured I'd share it, I miss the old man :)
i feel you my dad teached me how to ride a dirtbike in the roughest place ever it was like a enduro trail but im glad he did i can now ride anywhere my dad passed away this year i surely miss my pops :(
Niceee!!!!
@@506SVA my condolences 👍🫂♥️
🙏
Condolences brother...
My ex-husband and I had a great marriage for the first half and a troubled marriage for the last half. But one thing remained consistent throughout. I rode pillion for many years behind him, and I trusted him completely. Riding behind him on his Gold Wing (the Highway Easy Chair) is among my best memories.
:)
Thanks for watching and commenting! ❤️Check out MotoJitsu.com for the links to my app, books, merch, discounts, etc. 👍🏼
One of the best passengers I ever had was blind. He was a Vietnam Vet who ask me to take him to veterans rally.
People were all smiles when he got off and unfolded his stick.
Thanks for watching & commenting! ❤️ MotoJitsu.com for my App, Books, Merch, Discounts, etc. 👍🏼
Thanks for this updated video. I watched your original before taking my son on the back (he's 9), just his little weight alone made such a difference and I was glad to have watched your video to explain to him what he needed to do. He did great and loved it! Thanks again.
First thing I tell any passenger. Don’t help me, don’t counter lean, don’t make sudden weight shifts when we’re going slow. If you adjust your weight back there when we’re going slow, you’ll cause us to veer and possibly crash.
Great advice and lovely control. Back when I rode often in the 1980's and 90's our bike seats were generally a lot flatter front to rear, not stepped up as much at the rear like they are nowadays and I think this makes the job of the pillion rider more difficult today than back then. What I used to tell them was to squish up fairly close, my back needs to feel their tummy being pushed into me and those little pebbles, but with their hips tilted down so that the bum tilted slightly up to the rear - just stuck back up a bit. Next was to preferably ignore the grabrail (that's for strapping luggage down). Rather, they should put their arms around me under mine and gently clasp hands down and to the front of me or better still, rest them lightly on the rear of the tank. Then, to relax and be loose, the more they're like a sack of potatoes the better, yet be aware of where they're going to, in other words look over the driver/rider's shoulder to the inside of the bend, not to the outside of it. People who followed that last where-to-look advice were great passengers and became naturals. Your first passenger in the clip was doing exactly that kind of looking. My best such pillion could handle a peg scrape to the left and de-skinning the 4 into 1 exhaust on the right.
You are helping all of us with proven techniques to improve our skills as riders. Much appreciated!
Happy to help!
one of the most useful ones I have ever seen on any channel on riding with a passenger. Thank you Greg. PS. Got the Shut Up and Practice t-shirt, love it!
Although I have a touring bike, I use my mainly bike as a daily commuter. Before we do a weekend or other trip 2-up, we always do a quick spin around town and parking lot drills. This get me (and us) practiced and ready for the trip.
What is ur daily commuter bike?
smart!
Thank you. Been riding for almost two years and a few weeks ago I had a passenger for the first time. All went well, I/we applied most of your advice. Now we know how to improve the ride for safety.
welcome
Great video 👍. I've had plenty of different pillions over the years and everything this guy says is bang on right. Love the drills he's showing and complete control even with that extra weight on the bike. Hats off to the pillions for not freaking out but having complete trust in the riders ability. Always increase braking distances and remember you are responsible for the pillions safety.
The biggest issue is 'countersteering', or when the passenger leans towards the opposite side in a turn, just as a natural impulse. Also, I have a little belt thing that can be used to attach the passenger to me. It doesn't actually help with anything, but it makes them feel safer.
Yup, be the passenger of a skilled and experienced rider. Who am i going to gain experience on riding with a passenger if every passenger thinks like that?
I've been riding 27 years now, the first time I rode my lady a few years back, I let go of the bars and rode with no hands. Its something thats second nature with me. She had a fit and ordered me to pull over and that she will walk
she is a legend passenger for a legend rider. wish you happiness : )))
:)
Good video. Taking my first rider out this week, in a parking lot only to start.
My brother almost got in an accident with a bad passenger. As soon as they hit the highway she panicked. I guess screaming loudly and squeezing him ridiculously hard. He went to take the nearest exit and she leaned the opposite way of the bike and held onto him so tight it was not letting him steer the bike well. Almost went wide into the guardrail but lucky was able to hold it together. He's never taken a passenger again lol.
Sheesh
@@MotoJitsu yeah scary stuff lol. Love ur videos man. Keep up the good work!
Another technique I’ve read about is to ask your passenger to be your backpack. Stay with the rider, always. I’ve done it that way and it works well but I do think Greg’s technique is better. Can’t wait to try!
👍🏼
Those are great tight turns. I am really impressed! I could never do that.
thanks
Years ago I was asked if I could take a young pillion rider, by his parents. I said no for all of the above reasons you stated. The parents took it the wrong way, however I didn't care as I knew that I was doing the correct and safe thing.
The passemger has more control as to where the bike is going. Tell the passenger to stay with you not to lean opposite of you. This is especially important in a turn. I had a gf make the bike go straight in a right hand curve and put us into oncoming traffic. Lucky I have riden a number of years and got us back into the correct lane.
Very helpful, just moved up from a 411 to a 1200 and my wife is excited to share the adventure of riding. This video will be good for her to see
What
@@MotoJitsu somehow my comment for another video ended up here...darn auto play. Sorry about that 😅
2:19 Exactly! Before you are ready to take a passenger you actually care about, you must first practice with someone whom you wouldn't mind too much if they got injured, like your ex-girlfriend, a telemarketer, or your mother in-law
ha!
Goddamn bro lol
Interesting.I was a beginner rider.I had a passenger who does not ride MC.On a 3/4 turn I lost control and swerved to a fall.I asked her what she was trying to do while we were leaning.Of course I have no idea.But with a heavier passenger who rides a MC I have no problem balancing.Your video helped me to better understand that.That was 7 years ago and I have been so wary riding with a passenger.We make a contract.Donot move and stay close so we are 1 unit when making a turn.That helped.
I actually prefair my passenger to move with me.
Like not anticipate my movement and suddently leaning (as you said, thats the worse), but like just hold onto me and follow me as if we’re one.
I had full neutral “rock” passangers and follow me passenger, and i’ll take them every day.
On more sportier bikes that don’t have handles our passenger can’t stay neutral unless we stay completely neutral so moving with us is only natural
Moto-jitsu. The professor of Motorcycling. Thumbs up from Poland👍🏼😄
WOW. THERE IS NO BETTER WAY TO SAY IT OR SHOW IT. I HAVE TOLD PEOPLE BEFORE THE PASSENGER DOES NOT MOVE. JUST STAY ON THE SEAT AND DO WHAT THE BIKE DOES. THIS VIDEO IS PROOF OF WHAT I HAVE BEEN TELLING PEOPLE IN THE PAST. THANKS FOR SHOWING THIS. 👍
❤️👍🏼
I'm sorry, but "do what the bike does" leaves the door WAY to open to interpretation by non riders. Ride safe
@@andyostertag no need to apologize. If you are a non rider then I wouldn't be riding a passenger. That comment was for a passenger only. And I wouldn't ride a passenger with out explaining the process.
I've had so many passenger's that turn opposite of me in a turn so they can see, or think it's helping the bike stick lol. I rarely take a passenger anymore unless the bike has a backrest, or bars for them to grab, that tends to be a huge difference in how they act back there.
love this informative clip. It is definitely a good refresh course. Greg, I learned a lot from you in the past 2 years, watching and practicing for hours...
This information is coming from someone learning something new. Keep learning young man.
If the wife/girlfriend/FWB refuses to listen to what you say, DON'T ALLOW HER TO RIDE WITH YOU.
I did that mistake, she almost took me to the ground.
She would get her weight on one side of the bike, not grab on to me, i had to constantly give her sign to grab me, would jump on the bike without warning, would get up on the seat randomly...
And worse of all, when told she did something wrong she would fight back!
A stupid passenger is the most dangerous cargo you can carry.
Great video and good skills. I’ve been riding over 50 years and personally I prefer my passenger to hold on to me rather than the bike. Having been a pillion on sports bikes, I find many lack the strength to fully hold on during mass acceleration, especially during sudden acceleration. Top box excluded of course. Otherwise awesome video and really liked the woman pillion section with her perspective.
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I was lucky to have some common sense and basic understanding of physics on my first pillion ride.
I had never rode a bike, never rode with someone, or ever thought of riding one.
My first time was maybe 3 months ago, I was shooting a marathon and we had the local MC providing transportation around the track. Unfortunately, the rider I was put on with, didn't give me any instructions, just told me to grab tight and go with the flow. That's what I did, facing the rear and shooting with both hands. Kind of extreme, I must say.
After that, I grew a thing for bikes and here I am now.
Thanks Eddie, for all your videos and for the time you use up making them.
That was a good video, so smooth with a passenger. Okay I definitely need more time and a lot more practice, sounds fun though! Thank you for these videos👍
thanks
All great advice! but I would like to add a few things, and they are depending non your muffler system or setup, and that being a very hot point that can cause serious burns mainly to the passenger's calf area while getting off and on the bike, I use a Titanium aftermarket muffler which will not cause a serious burn even after hard riding. and on my older model bikes, both the rider and passenger were seated at the same level and this made carrying a passenger fairly easy with them close to the rider's body making hanging on easy and the tank was used by them when the rider was braking if needed, but due to how most motorcycles are manufactured these days the rear passenger seat is set back and way higher so if your pillion does lean or move aggressively it is very noticeable and can have a large effect on the bike ( a large male comes to mind who is drunk).another point is if your passenger is getting thrown backward and forwards constantly and even causing helmets the bump! then it is probably due to your gear shifting, acceleration, and braking not being smooth or poorly synchronized, many riders are unaware of this fact probably due to them having handlebars to hang on to or never being a passenger when a super smooth rider is in control because the difference huge even when the bike is been ridden hard and fast or in heavy traffic! Another point would be to never ride anywhere near your limits like you might do while riding solo! the last point is as a passenger choose very carefully who you get on the back with as it can easily be a matter of life and death as motorcycle riders come in many different degrees of riding ability from the showoff the inexperienced the high-risk taker and the downright dangerous and the highly skilled very safe rider and everything in between, and this should become apparent after a very short time as a passenger so get ask them to please stop so you can get off the bike if need be because you feel the rider is dangerous, etc! as this won't happen if the rider is experienced and takes safety first!
I strive to be THIS good at handling a motorcycle
I'll be happy to learn at least half as much as you can. Now I will start on the KTM Duke 125 and it will be new to me because until now I have only ridden off-road
;)
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Spot on, great information!!
8:30 - exactly what I wanted to see. Thanks Moto!
bro I used to ride a 200cc motorbike and three of my friends as passengers behind me (*_*).I was literally riding while sitting on the gas tank. the question is how to convince them to stay calm while they are having a serious conversation on a motorbike and no one of us wears helmets or safety gear.
Biggest thing is know that your reaction time to EVERYTHING is going to be slower, and even if you preload the rear you *STILL* might touch down more than you think....
I love your skill And your teachings and amazing!!!.
I like to remind people although this high skill is something nice and amazing to aim at, it is not required in order to be a safe and good motorcyclist, mastering simple maneuvers that are predictable in all environments is key. Don’t risk your bike and injuries doing this in non-control environments. Know your limitations and stay conservative specially in long trips.
Generally good advice, but telling a newbie passenger, "don't move" is going to put fear in them and reduce their enjoyment. Better to explain to them that less movement is better, but they can't do anything that you/I can't manage. If you can't deal with their movement, you need to be better. (50 years safe riding talking)
bro that dude holding the camera is awesome, props to him
Great advice, Sarg! thanks for sharing!
Lol when I visited India there was whole families on bikes. Two kids dad and mom with toddler in hand!
I've had passengers lean the opposite way. Holy shit.
One time I had to stop immediately and give her some very stringent instruction. We were way cool after that. She even leaned back and wrapped her legs around me. The dead weight was great and easy to ride. She got on and off straight up without pulling me off the bike.
Just give your passenger some instruction and the ride will be great.
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I downloaded your app and used it to keep myself on track with my skills for riding. During riding season, (I live in Utah, so there's an off-season) I went from having 100 miles under my belt (first year) with no ability for slow-speed maneuvering to 8000 miles and being able to get level 2 parking spaces. My issue is that I haven't practiced enough for getting my knee down. And I know, don't focus on one thing. That's just the first goal that comes to mind. I'm upgrading from my cb500x (first bike) to an R6, R1, ZX6R, or ZX10R. Haven't decided yet. I feel confident enough to jump to a 600 or 1000. So, once the season starts, I'm going to ride my cb500x for a little bit and freshen up my skills, then purchase my next bike and see what slow-speed maneuvering I can get down on there. I love my 500, but I'd rather not be limited with power. It's not that I want to sit at 16k rpms all the time, but rather, I want the ability to get myself out of a situation where a car is trying to run me over for lane filtering (that has happened) or anything else that might happen. Also, don't worry, I wear full gear even in hot weather. I'd rather be as safe as I can be, rather than riding squid. Anyways, sorry for the long comment. Just wanted you to know that you've inspired and helped another fellow rider.
Fun isn't it!! I would look into an upright bike like a Street Triple..full blow sport bikes with clip ons are the absolute worse bikes for street riding...most uncomfortable and impractical. The Street Triple RS for example has awesome brakes, suspension and tires OEM plus the comfort of a handlebar. I wouldn't over look it.
@@MotoJitsu Thanks for the advice! I completely forgot about that! Test rode an R6 a couple months back. I was only on it for about 10 minutes and my back was killing me.
Upright/naked is my favorite type of bike
@@garret6121 I've gotta agree with him on this. I started on a Ninja 300, which was pretty comfortable. Then got a ZX6R, which I love and is a blast, but it sucked for commuting. I just got an MT-09 for riding to work, and I love every single second I'm on the bike, even when I got caught in a windy rain storm on it. The naked bikes are FAR more comfortable
@@thecheetahman22 I approve! The channel owner recommends brands that are less reliable. He even rides one.
Back when I first turned 17, I got my riders permit. I swear from the day I learned how to ride, to now. The one thing that’s always been my peeve is the way people hold onto me. I don’t care if you’re a dude or a chick. DONT HOLD ONTO A RIDERS SHOULDER. I almost died once when I was 19. I gave a chick friend a ride home from college. During an acceleration from a red light, she freaked out and grabbed my shoulders instead of my waist. We both almost got ran over by a truck making a right turn after falling over. 🤦♂️
it's the rider's responsibility to tell the passenger what to do or not to do...if they're not able or unwilling to do that, don't take them, which is also the rider's choice.
That’s kind of what I meant in my comment lol. I was 19, and didn’t know that the chick would grab my shoulder. What I’m saying here is, if a person freaks out on a rider, just don’t grab the shoulders. 🤷♂️
I am rid8ng mt09 tracer 2018, manual suspension serring.. Set for 2 up... End up always r8de together with wife.. Feel not so uncomfortable riding alone... As feel so bumpy, not so confidence especially cornering... Thats how important the suspension setup are for motorbike
I been on several long trips with my girlfriend, she is an amazing passenger and she also rides. We've been to Tail of the Dragon and always search for the twistiest roads. We have experimented on the road and we are faster through the turns when she also leans. When she is like a rock the bike feels slow to turn in and it feels like a bike that just weighs more and is out of balance. When she moves with me the bike leans less and we can go faster. Its like I'm heavier and the bike is still awesome. She knows to lean when we are at speed and to stay still when we slow maneuver and come to a stop. We have Senas and Cardos so we communicate, I'll ask her to counter lean with me when I want to make a tighter U turn, like on a narrow road. I much prefer a dynamic load and she loves to push us faster. Also its good to get some kind of headsets so you can talk to each other. Its hard to hear the screams over the wind and engine noise. With a headset you can reassuringly tell your passenger that its normal to go this fast.
informative, no time wasted
that's the type of content I like on youtube
good info!
😀
Only thing I can add is: when mounting make them mount 1st while you hold the front brake, when dismounting dismount 1st grab the brake then they can get off easier
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This is a great video! Thanks for sharing!
Hello from Australia. I loved that video. It was poetry in motion watching you in the car park doing those turns with a passenger. Cheers
thanks
Great show, man. Kudos!
Those are some experienced hands.that was very informative. I never doubled rided.hoping to when i get a bigger bike.
thanks :)
I thought the best thing was to have the pillion hug your back rather than try to stay still as a rock. That way if you do some serious CS swerves they're not going to be thrown from side to side.
Loved the video, I've had bad passengers before, but I didn't really know what seperates them from the good ones.
When I was on pavilion I used to sometimes close my eyes , relax and go with the bike, obviously only do this if its safe but it does stop you leaning the opposite way when cornering.
3:30 - this so much. I keep seeing these videos saying the pillion should echo what the rider is doing & I'm like why? The rider is used to the bike handling with his or her own weight leaning. They're used to riding with cargo too, most likely, if they've ever been on a long trip. They won't be used to 150lbs swinging about unpredictably or adding to their weight. Sit still & let us do what we need.
Great Advice...Safety is important. I always wear protective gear, and encourage my passenger to do so as well. KTM's are da best...Aloha from Maui :)
One thing I notice is on a big heavy bike carrying weight doesn't have as much affect compared to a smaller lighter bike, on the lighter bike the same weight is more noticeable.
of course
That's really weird, cause when I bring my girl on my grom, it's way easier to control than my xsr709, which is a way bigger bike
1:14 right, thanks. Nice info.
👍🏼
Here's the previous video I have on passenger riding:
ua-cam.com/video/YfS4aRI6if8/v-deo.html
ua-cam.com/video/MIdCq5vHRp8/v-deo.html
ua-cam.com/video/2iln25liMzo/v-deo.html
ua-cam.com/video/vJwAqrgKIPs/v-deo.html
I am not ready for a passenger yet because just started riding again after my last time accidents hit behind!
That demonstration at the end of the video, truly amazing. 👏😎
Supacool, great skills bro✊🏾
Great video and advice, Greg. Thank you.
Good tutorial and information, thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
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I carry a passenger on a big adventure bike and it is so much more fun if your passenger's frequency and chemistry matches with you 😉
Ah
Excellent! Thank you.
You are welcome!
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So nice and very informative video! Thank you for sharing! Keep up the good work and keep safe.
My father had four people in a 50cc in the 80s. I know is terrible thing to do, but best memories ever 😂.
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My problem is stopping with a passenger at a red light or junction I get a wobble on
Yup. That's a challenge always on a heavy bike. It's a conscious sop stopping with extra weight
Muchas gracias, me has ayudado a solucionar mis problemas con pasajero a baja velocidad
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The Hardest thing with a passenger for me is Braking, braking distance is alot farther since i dont want them getting thrown into me, as soon as they start sliding into me, i know im braking too fast 😆 Passenger comfort is priority, otherwise they wont want to ride with you or anyone again 😆 preload on the rear shocks is super important too 😀
They're going to do that under heavy braking no matter what, better to teach them how to anticipate and brace themselves.
@@MotoJitsu True, thats unavoidable when the need to stop immediately arises, i just meant for cruising around 😀 smoother shifts, smoother stops and gradual acceleration lets my passengers enjoy the ride alot more 😸
that's just your hands being too fast and abrupt.
Awesome video....thanks....
welcome!
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I suggest to take an other licensed rider as a passenger for the first time.
This was the video i needed thank you
Dziękuję za świetnie przygotowany materiał. Na kufrze widze flagę Polski. Czołem kamracie.
Whenever I ride with my girl friend she always moves a lot for no reason. I feel like swinging my elbow at her jaw at 90 kmph speed in bike.
Definitely gonna share her this video
All around great information; be and ride safe.
I think passager weight makes a difference. Especially when its heavier than rider.
Like im 170lbs and i take my 80lbs daughter and its no problems at all.
But if i take my friend at 240lbs.. bike handles terrrible. Also im on r6 so not great for 2up.
And i don't do any suspension adjustments for 2up
Then you're not good enough yet
This is a great information video, you have given some great information. Passengers don’t understand weight distribution
Beautiful throttle lessons brother 🫶🏻✨️❤️🔥
We thank you
I tell all pillions not to get on or off without telling me first so that i can get ready. I also ask them to stay inline with my body whilst going around corners.
I set my suspension a little stiff for when I pick up a girl at the bar. I always tell them to keep their feet on the pegs no matter what. I also tell them to keep their shoulders squarely behind mine
World of come to the conclusion you and motorman are the only ones I'll watch for a learning experience PS Happy Thanksgiving people
in my country (slovakia) when you do the driving course you have the instructor sitting on the back of the bike where he has a secondary handle bar with clutch and brakes, it's really terrifying to learn to ride like that
edit: but to be fair it's only when we go out into the traffic, we don't do that on the training grounds
im probably never going to own a bike but if I did i'm never going to try any of the techniques used in the demo lol. It's a good demonstration. When I do get a bike and have ridden for awhile, I will have some confidence of having a passenger, as long as they are geared of course; and are a good passenger lol. It could be a good training tool, I'm more willing to take risks for myself, than putting someone else in danger due to my driving. Even in a car with passenger, I am not showing off, I am not having too much fun, my priorty is everyone's safety..If I get into a accident who cares, but if I walk away and someone else gets hurt... I can't live with that. With that said, if you have not ride with 110% precautions, awareness, and confidence I believe it is better to ride alone. I'm sure idiot will ignore this logic but I stand by this statement, driving with passengers should make you a better driver, not worse.
Thank you!
❤️👍🏼
Hey big thx for the video. I was wondering if you have a video with what the basic excersises are that you recommend to do as often as you can or if you could make one. I know it's kind of selfish but I think a lot of new riders would appreciate. Just as I would. thanks and good luck
check out this channel. so many viedos with basic exercises. He also has booklets and an app. Worth the investment! I'm over 60 and continue to improve with his drills. He has a patch on his jacket "Shut Up and Practice". Best motorcycle advice I've ever been given.
Comon, can't be as complicated. Just go with the flow. Don't over complicate.
01:15
“Riding is 38 times more dangerous than driving. You are 38 times more likely to die riding than driving.” [paraphrased]. Since I first took my police motorcycle course in 1977 this is a _very_ sobering statistic that I was unaware of.
I watched a couple of your videos about riding with passenger and I still have a question I haven't find an answer yet. I am a tiny lady and I ride a z650. Here in Sweden the driving license exam is pretty tough and to access to the final test you need to complete risk2, one full day of risk and security riding with the driving school. There I did so many cool things in controlled environment like hard breaking 120 km/h, riding with no hands apart for pushing handler when counter-steering, riding with a bad passenger. I had as a passenger another tiny lady like me, and she was supposed to do bad things like bending the wrong side during curves and other scary things. Gosh that was good learning as I promised myself to never take a passenger. But time passed, got my license, drove 4500 km, and I decided to take my bf on the back (he rides too so he is a good passenger) but he is way heavier than me, like I am less than 60 kg he is 90. And oh my god it was so different compared when I rode with the skinny girl in the school. I couldn't even move the bike! I felt the bike was so heavy I was scared of wheeling! my question is, is it me with too little experience or is it better not to have passenger heavier than the rider? Sorry for the long essay and thanks so much for your fantastic content!
What I usually tell passengers who havent been on a motocycle before is to just sit, try not to move more than you have to, that im never riding fast enough that a shift in weight from a passenger could take control from me anyway, but try not to make any jerky movements. Then i tell them to pretend they have a glass of water on their head. Just because keeping your head level while the bike is leaning over makes it alot less scary feeling, and a comfortable passenger is a world of difference from a scared and stiff one. Assurance is really important
Other than that I prepare myself that the passenger will want to look over my shoulder and look around generally (i mean its exciting to them right), and that is probably going to make turning one way or another a bit heavier than usual. Usually I change the suspension settings a bit, not because of handling but because it causes my lights to hit cars straight in the face.
Oh and I usually go over the "bear hug" thing where if we need to break you place one hand on the tank so I dont get hit by the full weight of my passenger. Great video though, agree with everything here :D
Beautiful illustrations.
Good video and good advice
You gotta go slower and will not have as much fun from the riding, but with intercoms can be fun to have someone to chat
I ride a cruiser and I would rather have the passenger become one with me. When I lean I want them to lean as if they are glued to me. I have found I can handle the bike much better.