Pillion (passenger)

A pillion is a passenger riding behind the rider; the word is also used for the passenger seat and pillion pegs. Carrying a pillion changes how a bike behaves: braking distances get longer, acceleration drops and the steering gets lighter as weight moves rearwards.

Before riding two-up, increase rear preload and tyre pressures as the manual says, and adjust the headlight if needed. Check that the bike is registered for two and that the passenger can reach the footpegs; children need to reach the pegs too, and minimum age rules apply in many countries.

Tell your passenger to hold on to you or the grab rail, to look over your shoulder in corners, lean with the bike and keep their feet on the pegs at all times, including at stops. They need the same protective gear as the rider.