Having a passenger on board can be fun. It's a great way to share your love of riding and include them in the "experience". But when carrying a pillion, your bike will respond to your input much slower. Your passenger's weight will also contribute to the lack of responsiveness. The heavier he or she is, the longer it will take you to slow down, speed up, or turn. Also, the lighter your bike, the more difficult the task. Here are a few pointers to keep you and your pillion on board safely:

• Slow down. Particularly when taking curves, corners, or bumps.
  
  
• Brake sooner. Apply your brakes earlier than you normally would.
  
  
• Wide, open spaces. Establish a larger cushion of space around you.
  
  
• Allow more time. Wait for larger gaps when you want to cross, enter, or merge with traffic.
  
  
• Look over my shoulder. Your passenger should look over your shoulder in the direction of the turn.
  
  
• Hang on. Your passenger should keep his or her hands on your waist or the grabrail.
  
  
• Be still. Your passenger should avoid any sudden moves or weight shifts, especially at low speeds.
  
  
• Me first. You should be seated with the motorcycle running before your passenger gets on.
  
  
• Feet on the pegs, please. Your pillion's feet should remain on the footpegs until they are ready to dismount.