The load test
A bike that feels fine solo can feel completely different with a pillion, two panniers and a top box. This is where engine size, suspension and comfort stop being spec-sheet numbers.
Post your experience
Code:
Model and year:
Route and distance:
Pillion: (yes / no)
Luggage fitted:
Approximate total load:
Engine: comfortable or working hard?
Suspension: what did you adjust?
Brakes under load:
Pillion verdict, in their words:
Consumption change versus solo:Specific things worth reporting
- Did you increase rear preload, and did it fix the problem?
- Overtaking with a full load — adequate or planning required?
- Pillion seat comfort over three hours, not thirty minutes
- Pillion grab handles and peg position
- Whether the bike still felt stable at motorway speed fully loaded
Pillions are welcome to post directly. The person on the back has a completely different experience of the same journey, and their verdict is usually more honest than the rider's.