SA rider knowledge test pillion passengers and loads practice questions

Question 1

What must the motorcycle be fitted with before you carry a pillion passenger?

• A seat designed for a passenger and footrests for their feetCorrect answer
• A luggage rack
• A larger rear tyre
• An extra mirror

The passenger must sit astride a proper passenger seat, facing forward, with both feet on footrests. A machine without pillion footrests cannot legally carry anyone.

Rule cited: Australian Road Rules, rule 271 (riding on motorcycles)

Question 2

Who is responsible for making sure a pillion passenger is wearing an approved helmet correctly?

• Nobody, it is up to the passenger alone
• The rider must make sure the passenger wears an approved helmet, properly fastenedCorrect answer
• The motorcycle's owner, even if not present
• The passenger's insurer

The helmet requirement covers passengers as well as riders, and as the rider you are the one in charge of the motorcycle. Check the fit and the strap before you move off.

Rule cited: Australian Road Rules, rule 270 (motorcycle helmets)

Question 3

How does a pillion passenger change the way the motorcycle handles?

• It becomes easier to stop because of the extra weight
• Steering feels heavier, acceleration is slower and stopping distances get longerCorrect answer
• Handling is unchanged
• Only cornering is affected

The extra mass sits high and towards the back. Practise slow speed manoeuvres with the passenger before setting off, and give yourself far more room to stop than usual.

Rule cited: The Rider's Handbook (South Australia), topic: carrying a passenger

Question 4

What should a pillion passenger do in corners?

• Lean the opposite way to keep the bike level
• Stay in line with the rider and look over the rider's shoulder on the inside of the turnCorrect answer
• Sit as still as possible and lean backwards
• Move around to help the bike turn

A passenger who fights the lean makes the motorcycle very hard to steer. Looking over the rider's inside shoulder naturally puts the passenger's weight where it should be.

Rule cited: The Rider's Handbook (South Australia), topic: carrying a passenger

Question 5

You are strapping a bag onto the pillion seat for a day trip. What should you check before setting off?

• That it is heavy enough to keep the rear wheel down
• That it is low, central and firmly strapped, and that nothing covers the tail light, indicators or number plateCorrect answer
• That it is tied to one handlebar
• That it can move freely to absorb bumps

A load that shifts changes the balance of the motorcycle at the worst possible moment. Strap it down tight, keep the weight low and central, and check the straps again at every stop.

Rule cited: The Rider's Handbook (South Australia), topic: loads and luggage