As models that can carry an adult passenger increase rapidly in the electric bike market, calls are emerging for separate safety standards for two-person riding. With electric bikes expanding beyond simple leisure use into car-alternative transport, riding with 2 people involves different physical conditions from normal riding and requires additional preparation, an analysis says.

On May 10, electric vehicle-focused outlet Electrek reported that demand for adult passengers is growing in the electric bike industry. It said the market used to focus on transporting children, but cases of carrying a spouse, friend or roommate are increasing.

It first stressed that not all electric bikes are designed to carry people. It said riders should check whether the manufacturer officially allows passengers and whether the rear rack and frame are designed to support a person's weight rather than just cargo.

Managing total weight is also a key variable. Combined weight can quickly reach a bike's load limit once the rider and passenger, accessories, luggage and even a child seat are included. Exceeding the limit can affect more than the rack, it said, including braking performance, steering stability, wheel durability and frame lifespan.

The need for dedicated passenger kits was also raised for safe riding. Examples include padded seats, footrests, wheel guards and handholds. If a passenger simply sits on the rear rack, there may not be enough structure to support the body, and the risk grows that feet, clothing hems or shoelaces could get caught in the rear wheel or brake rotor, it said.

The biggest change while riding is braking distance. With more riders, momentum increases and stopping distance can be longer than expected. The difference is larger for electric bikes capable of higher speeds. Electrek advised riders to judge stopping points earlier and use both brakes steadily.

The industry is also assessing that hydraulic brakes have effectively become the standard for two-person electric bikes. Braking that was sufficient when riding alone can become inadequate with a passenger, it said.

For first-time two-person riding, it also advised going through an adjustment process in a wide space such as a parking lot rather than on roads. It said repeatedly starting, stopping and turning at low speed can help riders get used to changes in balance. It added that extra load carried high at the rear can significantly affect balance when starting from a stop or braking suddenly.

A passenger's posture also matters, it said. Electrek stressed that passengers should sit with their centre of gravity in the middle and avoid suddenly leaning or moving. It said giving a brief signal before starting or stopping can also help.

It also said a passenger trying to balance separately from the bike in corners can increase risk. The article used an expression that the passenger should move with the rider, effectively like a backpack.

It also mentioned the need for bike setup and tire pressure management. On models with rear suspension adjustment, riders can raise preload for two-person riding to keep the bike's posture stable. Because many models lack such a function, managing tire pressure is seen as a more practical alternative. Raising pressure in the rear tire, which bears the added load, can help stability and prevent punctures, it said.

Infrastructure is another variable. With increased length and weight, an electric bike carrying 2 people can become harder to handle on narrow bike lanes, sharp turns, bollards and curb-entry sections. It said it is important to choose routes with good road surfaces, wider space and predictable traffic flow.

Checking local regulations is also necessary. Some areas restrict two-person riding itself or set separate rules on helmet use, riding posture and age. Failing to properly check regulations can lead to enforcement action or issues of liability in accidents, it said.

Protective gear is also important. Electrek advised that two-person riding can be inherently more dangerous than riding alone and that both people should wear helmets, fully enclosed shoes and long trousers. It added that it is better to avoid slippers or loose clothing.

The industry says two-person riding on electric bikes is highly useful because 2 people can travel together on a single vehicle. But a key challenge is that riders must consider manufacturer approval, load limits, braking performance, passenger posture and local regulations in order to use them safely as a means of transport.