When should a passenger be instructed to hold tighter?

A passenger should be instructed to hold tighter as you approach surface problems because this situation can cause sudden changes in handling or stability of the motorcycle. When encountering surface issues like potholes, gravel, or wet spots, the motorcycle might shift or react unexpectedly. It’s important for passengers to maintain a secure grip to help balance themselves and contribute to the overall stability of the bike. This minimizes the risk of the passenger shifting their weight in a way that could disrupt the rider’s control or lead to an accident.

In other scenarios, such as approaching a stop or making a turn, while it is important for the passenger to be aware of their position and grip, the impact of surface problems is more critical in requiring an immediate and tighter hold. During straight road sections, the dynamics of the motorcycle are typically stable, reducing the necessity for a tighter hold.