how old does a child have to be to be a passenger on a bike?

I agree with the foot pegs answer, but it varies from state to state. I rode my 9 yr old son with me (with a dot approved helmet) until he thought he looked stupid riding on the back of a crotch-rocket with his mom!

His uncle would take him riding (on a Harley type of bike) when he was 3 or so & he had a type of a harness/belt that went around both of them so when my son would get distracted and point at something and unknowingly let go he wouldn't fall off. I would search the internet or motorcycle shops for other ideas. You could also contact the A.B.A.T.E. in your state & they should know.

I would like to add that I DO NOT think that ANY child be in the front holding on to the tank! You might as well put them on the hood of your car too!

Also, I think that it's good that a child be introduced to motorcycles (dirtbikes, atv's etc.) at an early age so they have knowledge & appreciation of the responsibility you must have to ride. Riding has taught me how to respect & be aware of other riders while in my car & I know that it's taught my son the same thing. It's the punks that think they are tougher than the bike that gives motorcycles a bad name.

"An irresponsible parent is one who doesn't teach their children responsibility."

You should check the laws in you state or county. Where I live it it 12 years old.

I don't think you are irresponsible,just by asking you are showing that you want to do the right thing.

You can find your state laws by going to the Department of Motor vehicles for your county.

Take care!

Just make sure you get a motor cycle helmet. A bicycle helmet does have the protection needed!

If you asked an Emergency Room doctor, he or she would say NEVER! The injuries sustained by these little kids when they hit the pavement are very serious, even if they have a helmet on. I personally would use those little travel carts that attach to the back of the bike. If you fall, the baby only tips over, but still protected.

Most state laws regarding passengers on motorcycles indicate that the passengers feet must be able to rest firmly on the footrests. This is all that is in CA law regarding age of passenger. It is up to you to determine if the child is able to perform the "duties" that go along with being a MC passenger (leaning with you, holding on, etc).

The law is different from state to state. You can call your local dmv and ask. Or pick up a manual for getting liesen. Even post a question in the motorcycle section. But i believe it states can hold on by self and reach the foot pegs.

24 months