Riding Two-Up: Best Motorcycle Styles for Carrying a Pillion

Comfort, safety, space, suspension, and ergonomics play a vital role in determining how well a motorcycle handles a passenger. Here, we explore the most common motorcycle styles to determine which ones offer the best pillion experience.

1. Touring Motorcycles – The Gold Standard for Two-Up Travel

Best For: Long-distance comfort, maximum luggage, all-day riding.

Touring bikes, like the Honda Gold Wing, BMW K1600, or Harley-Davidson Ultra Limited, are purpose-built for two-up riding. These bikes come with large, plush seats for both rider and pillion, integrated backrests, spacious footboards or pegs, and sophisticated suspension systems that can easily accommodate extra weight.

Pros:

• Unmatched comfort for both rider and passenger.

• Often include built-in communication systems.

• Excellent wind protection and luggage space.

Cons:

• Expensive and heavy.

• Can be difficult to handle at low speeds or in urban settings.

Verdict:
Touring motorcycles are the undisputed champions for carrying a pillion over long distances.

2. Cruiser Motorcycles – Laid-Back and Pillion-Friendly

Best For: Casual riding, scenic routes, comfort over style.

Cruisers, like the Indian Chief, Harley-Davidson Softail, or Yamaha V-Star, typically feature low seat heights, relaxed riding positions, and long wheelbases. Many have comfortable pillion setups, especially when fitted with a passenger backrest or sissy bar.

Pros:

• Low center of gravity makes balancing easier.

• Comfortable seating, especially on larger models.

• Great torque at low speeds.

Cons:

• Limited luggage unless modified.

• Can be rough on suspension over bumps if not upgraded.

Verdict:
A great all-around option for comfortable pillion rides—especially on highways or shorter tours.

3. Adventure Motorcycles – Versatile and Capable

Best For: Long-distance touring with occasional off-road use.

Adventure bikes like the BMW GS series, Honda Africa Twin, or Triumph Tiger are surprisingly capable for pillion riders. They offer upright seating, excellent suspension travel, and typically strong subframes to support luggage and a passenger.

Pros:

• Ergonomic, upright riding posture.

• Roomy seats and advanced suspension.

• Can handle various terrain types.

Cons:

• Tall seat heights can be intimidating for shorter riders/passengers.

• Exposed pillion seating unless equipped with extra accessories.

Verdict:
Great for adventurous couples—especially if you're planning to explore beyond paved roads.

4. Sport Touring Motorcycles – Performance with Practicality

Best For: Riders who want comfort and speed.

Bikes like the Yamaha FJR1300, Kawasaki Concours, or Ducati Multistrada offer a blend of performance and touring comfort. Many feature decent pillion accommodations, although they're slightly more aggressive than pure tourers.

Pros:

• Comfortable enough for two-up touring.

• Sporty performance and handling.

• Often include wind protection and luggage.

Cons:

• Higher rear seat can make mounting tricky.

• Less plush than full touring bikes.

Verdict:
Ideal for riders who want to enjoy both speed and comfort without going full luxury.

5. Naked and Standard Bikes – Functional but Basic

Best For: Short commutes or occasional pillion use.

Standard bikes like the Honda CB500F, Yamaha MT-07, or Suzuki SV650 have upright ergos and can carry a pillion, but usually with less comfort. Passenger pegs are often high and seats can be small.

Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to handle.

• Affordable and simple.

Cons:

• Minimal pillion padding or back support.

• Short seat space.

Verdict:
Fine for short trips or city rides, but not ideal for regular two-up travel.

6. Sportbikes – Pillion in Name Only

Best For: Solo performance riding.

Sportbikes like the Yamaha R1, Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R, or Ducati Panigale may have pillion seats, but they're typically tiny, perched high, and uncomfortable. Passenger pegs are often very high and rear suspension stiff.

Pros:

• None, if pillion comfort is your goal.

Cons:

• Awkward and uncomfortable for passengers.

• Harder to balance with a pillion.

Verdict:
Avoid unless you're carrying someone very brave—and only for short rides.