Riding your motorcycle with your child creates beautiful lifelong memories with them. There is so much joy and beauty when you make your child ride on the back of a motorcycle with you.
But, before considering the joy in it, you must think about the several safety concerns related to it. This means that you must consider the laws, risks, and precautions in the decision to make your child ride on a bike with you.
What You Should Know When Considering Riding a Motorcycle with Your Child
Some of the things you must pay particular attention to are:
Age and Maturity
Depending on state laws, children between the ages of 5 and 7 and above are allowed to ride a motorcycle with an adult. So, you have to consider the child’s age.
Also, not all children can withstand the vibration, wind, and noise of riding a motorcycle, so you have to assess your child’s comfort in these areas. Ensure that the child is aware of basic safety rules as well.
Safety Gear
Another thing you should know is that you should get an approved and properly fitted helmet for your child. Gloves, pants, jackets, sturdy shoes, and generally protective clothing for your child are necessary. If it is possible to get face shields or goggles for eye protection for the child, please do.
Motorcycle Preparation
Check the footrests and handlebars. These are the spots where your child will put their feet and hold on. Make sure everything is tight and in good shape. If something looks off or feels loose, it’s better to fix it before you hit the road.
Next up is the seat. You want to ensure that the seat is secure, especially the passenger seat where your child will sit. A wobbly seat can make your child feel uneasy, and we definitely don’t want that. A quick check here can help your child feel stable, so they can relax and enjoy the ride without worrying about falling off.
Also, remember to adjust the motorcycle’s suspension and ergonomics to fit your riding style. If the bike feels bouncy or too stiff, it can be uncomfortable for both of you.
Pre-Ride Checklist
Before riding the motorcycle, especially with a child, inspect the motorcycle to see if it is functioning the way it is supposed to.
If you notice adverse weather, you should stay back and go another time. Take your time to choose child-friendly and safe routes.
On-Ride Safety
Tell your child before they climb on that motorcycle with you that they must hold onto you tightly. If their feet reach the footrests, their legs must be on it at all times. The child should avoid sudden movements. With hand signals, you can communicate with your child while riding the motorcycle.
Laws and Regulations
There are different state-specific child passenger laws that you must be aware of and comply with when riding with a child. There are licensing requirements for riding a motorcycle and helmet laws that you must obey, especially with a child on your motorcycle.
Common Risks
You should know that there are some risks when driving with your child on a motorcycle. A child is vulnerable to noise-induced hearing loss, wind buffeting, and fatigue. The motorcycle is also prone to road hazards, which is why you must take safety precautions seriously.
Conclusion
There have been so many fatal accidents as a result of not taking precautions while riding a motorcycle.
While you hope that you are not one of those who sustains an injury, you should still do your best to stay safe while enjoying the exhilarating experience of riding a motorcycle with your child.
