MotorcycleSeatBlog.com

Editor’s Note: We asked Ann Altieri, Mustang’s marketing coordinator, to give us a first-person account of what it’s like to ride in the passenger seat of a motorcycle.  Below, she describes the attributes — and disadvantages — of being the person behind the person behind the handlebars. Here are her thoughts on playing second fiddle on the seating chart:

Reflections from the Backside of a Bike
By Ann Altieri, Marketing Coordinator – Mustang Motorcycle Seats

Ann with her driver, Randy.

When it comes to road trips on a motorcycle, the glory goes to the rider. Let’s face it. Even when viewed from a distance, the passenger on a motorcycle appears to be an afterthought. Excess baggage. Extra weight.

Well, I’m here to tell you that I’m one of those people who prefer the perspective from the passenger seat, because we definitely have a different view of things (literally) when it comes to the best place to be on the bike. There are plenty of advantages to bringing up the rear, and not the least of these is fewer bugs in your teeth.

In fact, having a rider right in front of you deflects more than insects. If the person behind the handlebars is a significant other or even more special, there’s the closeness and warmth of wrapping your arms around him/her. And if it’s a buddy doing the driving, you’ve got an instant windbreak — even at arm’s length.

Let’s not forget the views afforded from the passenger position. Outside of directly in front of you, the world is your oyster. Unlike your two-wheeling chauffeur, you’re allowed to take your eyes off the road. You’ve got unobstructed views from both sides, and the rear also, if you’re willing to toggle your position around a bit and turn your head.

And being out in the open, there’s really nothing between you and what you’re looking at but open space. No dirty windows, no stickers, no doors or even (more…)