What do you say for your pre first ride briefing?
I take things in logical order:
1. Make sure they are properly kitted up. The helmet fits and they are properly protected. Show how the visor lifts up and down. Make sure they are wearing gloves, even if it is a hot day and they don't want to. You will probably need to fasten the helmet for them, and make sure it is secure.
2. Getting on and off - Explain that you get on first, then they get on by placing foot on footpeg (point to it) with hand on your shoulder to steady. Afterwards, they get off first, likewise their hand on your shoulder. Assure them that you will be able to hold the bike upright while they do this.
3. Pulling away - Explain the forces of acceleration will make them lean backwards so explain they temporarily need to lean forwards to counter it. Agree method showing grab rails, and/or holding around waist. Show how to hold grab rails. Tell them they can use either methods and switch between, whichever they are more comfortable with.
4. Follow this up with explanation of braking and that they will move forwards so need to lean backwards. Again show grab rail method and waist method.
5. Tell them that you will take it slowly (very slowly) at first and will only increase speed if they indicate that they are happy with it. Agree method of communication, so that they can let you know how they are feeling, and you can indicate what you are about to do. Can be intercom, tap on shoulder, squeezing their thighs
, your hand on their knee
or whatever. Tell them to observe over your shoulder and anticipate.
6. Agree with them where you are going - how far and for how long.
7. Explain that when you stop at traffic lights etc, you will put your feet down, and they don't need to. Tell them to keep both feet on the pegs throughout
8. Explain corners and leaning. This is the bit that may worry them the most. Show how it works with the bike stationary. Say that it is nothing to worry about and bikes are meant to work like that. Tell them just to follow you. As said, it helps if they are holding onto your waist. Explain that they may feel the bike is falling over, but it won't. Take the first few corners slowly, and be prepared for them to try to correct the lean, or at least wobble a bit. With your experience and a slow speed it shouldn't cause any problems. If they do it a few times, stop and explain to them again. The first corner will be quite a telling factor.
9. Explain that for much of the time, while cruising, they can relax but to always anticipate.
10. After a small distance (half a mile-ish ?) stop the bike and check they are OK with what has been going on so far. Even if they show no signs of panic. Depending on how they are, you might want to do this again. Gradually build up the levels of acceleration, lean and top speed depending on the feedback you are getting about how comfortable they feel.
That's about it. Gain their confidence and enjoy. I've never had anyone who didn't want a second go