Not sure what is going on here but lately every time I stop riding 2 up it seems as though I struggle to keep balanced. I usually ease the back brake on 1st then ease the front brake on to drop my feet. I have been riding for years and this is just starting to happen. I ride a SG and it does not seem to effect me as much when I am 1 up. Sometimes I think I am over thinking the stop and grabbing too much front brake which stops it alot quicker than necessary or I am ready for. Any suggestions....other than a trike LOL. Never an issue with the chopper.....doesn't make sense.

 

The extra weight 2 up is going to affect your stopping process in both distance and balance. The passenger adds more weight and moves your bike's perceived center of gravity a lot higher which may seem to make the bike top heavy and less stable. It helps if the passenger sits still - especially when feeling you are braking. Try applying front and back brakes together and start braking sooner. Also, what has helped me when stopping 2-up is to focus ahead of me on a target about 4 - 6 feet above the ground (makes sure my head is up and not looking at the ground). With the extra weight you are going to need more gradually applied front brake. It is possible that your back brake alone is not slowing you down as much as it does when you are solo and you are heavier on the front brake to compensate.

just my .02

 

The best advice I can give you to stop this from happening is.....Ride solo

 

Passenger movement has a lot to do with the way a bike will handle at a slower speed. I've two up for so long now but not as long as others but I can't tell you what or how because now it's as natural to me as breathing. My wife knows she can wiggle, get rearranged or even stretch the legs after the wheels are stopped.

 

I don't do a lot of 2 up riding but that sounds like good advice 06flstf... thanks.

 

I do a lot of 2up and it is never as smooth starting or stopping as when I am alone. Just the passenger looking around my shoulders moves the bike enough to change the timing and makes my stops or starts feel awkward. Just a fact of 2up riding.

 

I use a tad bit more back brake when 2-up....getting progressively heavier at the last few feet.seems to minimize the effect.

 

Tom from http://harleygoodies.com/c here. Practice, practice, practice. A toeruing bike has a higher center of gravity and that is made even higher by a passenger. Give it some time and teach you passenger to sit still and lean with you in the turns. A bit more rear and less front brake will also help as you said.

Regards,
Tom
Harley Goodies

 

I have the same problem...knees are getting weaker with the rheumatoid arthritis...the ol'lady just says to quit my bitchin and ride...

 

if that is your passenger in your profile pic then I would have a hard time stopping as well. LOL