How to Prep for a Motorcycle Ride with a Child
While it's ok for a child to ride with you on your motorcycle once they’ve reached a certain height and age, that doesn’t mean you can simply plunk them down in the passenger seat and take off. Before you take a ride with your little one, you’ll first need to prep both your motorcycle and your child for the upcoming ride. For tips on how to do this, all you need to do is take a look at our article below!
Helpful Accessories for Your Motorcycle
Before you make any plans to take a ride with your little one, you’ll first want to ensure their comfort and safety by making a few small adjustments to your motorcycle. Because they won't have as much riding endurance as an adult, we advise purchasing a helpful handle strap for your child to grip onto as you drive and a comfortable backrest if your second seat doesn’t already have one. You’re also welcome to upgrade your motorcycle’s passenger foot pegs for a more comfortable or accessible option, although this isn’t mandatory. A helmet, on the other hand, is a mandatory piece of equipment, and you’ll want to choose your child’s very carefully. Double-check that it fits your little one well—not too snug and not too loose— and we recommend choosing an option that is approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Prep Your Child for the Trip
Younger children especially will have a hard time understanding that a motorcycle ride can be dangerous, and you’ll need to explain riding rules to them very clearly. Make sure they know to grab onto the handle strap tightly, especially as you turn, and that their feet should stay on the motorcycle’s pegs for the entire ride. We also advise giving your child a gentle warning on how loud the motorcycle can be, so they aren’t frightened when they first hear it starting up. Finally, you’ll want to set up some sort of signal or communication system, so they’re able to let you know when they’re tired, need a break, or want to go to the bathroom.
Looking for some of the helpful equipment listed in this article? You can easily find them at one of our convenient locations here in San Marcos and Corona, California! Here at North County Indian Motorcycle®, we offer a wide variety of helpful motorcycle equipment, gear, and accessories, and proudly serve the cities of San Diego and Oceanside, California.