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Pillions


Pillions

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Going pillion on a scooter or motorcycle can be great fun but how do you keep yourself safe? Here are some ideas.

  • The most important area is safety gear – it is tempting to skimp if you are not often going pillion, but you need to be fully protected. You should have an approved helmet, as well as a jacket, pants, gloves and boots covering at least the ankle. A full face helmet is preferred. All-leather clothing is preferred but Kevlar-lined jeans instead of leather pants can reduce abrasion in low speed riding but keep in mind they provide no protection against impact unless they incorporate body armour. All clothing must be for motorcycling, not street wear.
  • How experienced is your rider? If she/he has only just got their licence you may wish to reconsider. Are they under the influence of any drugs, including recreational? Have they had a good sleep/rest recently so they are not tired? Once you are on the bike you have little control (apart from hopping off when the bike stops!)
  • The rider should have your safety as the first priority. Let the rider know if you are an inexperienced passenger. You need to discuss with the rider how you should sit on the bike - you need to stay in line with the rider. Keep your movements to a minimum to avoid upsetting the balance of the bike.
  • Discuss with the rider how they want you to hold on. One hand placed around the rider and on the rear of the tank to resist braking forces can be useful.
  • If you are getting tired ask the rider to stop, so both of you can have a break. Have pre-arranged signals, such as tapping the right leg for “slow down” and the left leg for “stop”. Make sure you keep hydrated – being out in the wind, particularly on a hot day, takes a lot of moisture out of you. If there is storage room on the bike, take a bottle of water.

Download the Pillions fact sheet (PDF 280KB/1page)

The assistance of the Motorcycle Council of NSW, the Motor Accidents Authority of NSW and Girls Ride Out is gratefully acknowledged.

Image courtesy of Jupiter Images

 

 

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