The Surprising Link Between Meditation and Motorbike Rides
Feb 19, 2025
Today I’ve got a story to share that might surprise you — because it involves something you probably wouldn't pair with meditation - a motorbike ride. But hey, whoever said that I have to be conventional, and do the same as everyone else?! π
While on a visit to Canberra (Australia) from the UK (which is where I was living at the time), I was staying with a friend, and we needed to go out. This friend relied on his motorbike, as it is cheaper, faster, and more maneuverable than a car. He’s been riding daily for decades, so you can imagine that he’s very comfortable on his bike — maybe a little too comfortable! His riding style is definitely more on the “aggressive” side, and I’ll admit, the idea of riding with him made me a bit nervous.
Now, I’ve had some experience riding tandem before - it usually involved a split seat (much higher than the rider), so I need to focus all my energy on holding on as tight as I can, using every muscle I have, trying not to fall off, and ending the journey exhausted. As you can imagine in those circumstances, there is very space or time or energy left for enjoyment.
When I got to my friend’s bike in Canberra, I discovered it had a flat seat! So I could just sit, put my feet on the pegs, and hold onto him! SO much easier!!!! This made the journey so much easier on my body (and mind)!
Having said that, as my friend is an extremely confident rider, we were ducking in and out of traffic at a rapid pace. So I shut my eyes. So much better when you can’t see! π But I could still hear, and feel the apprehension. Which meant it was time for more drastic action - meditation.
By focusing inward, I was able to let go. With my eyes shut, I was able to just let go of all the fear. I focused on trust, on being present in the moment, and on finding peace and balance. And I took advantage of the flat seat of the motorbike – as long as I held on tight to my friend, I was able to relax. It was like I was close enough to my friend that I could trust him fully, but not so far away that I was physically straining just to stay on. With the seat being flat, I didn’t need to use all my muscles to hold myself up. This gave my mind the freedom to focus.
Instead of worrying about the traffic, or the speed of the bike, I focused on finding a peaceful space within. I meditated through the entire ride. It was like I was at one with the world, feeling calm, centered, and safe — despite the fact that we were zooming down the road at a pretty good speed!
Motorbikes and meditation don’t exactly seem like the perfect match, right? But I’m telling you, it works. The only time I came out of my meditation was when my foot accidentally dragged on the road for a split second! My friend, noticing that I jumped (with my eyes shut I had no warning this was coming!), and patted my leg reassuringly, as if to say, “It’s okay, we’re good.” After that, I lifted my foot higher, stayed calm, and kept going.
At the end of the ride, my friend mentioned that he’d been riding just as he always does — pretty fast, with lots of weaving through traffic, as he usually does — and he was impressed that I didn’t complain or react. I then explained that that was because I’d kept my eyes closed, and meditated for most of the ride!
So if you ever find yourself in a similar situation, why not give this a try? Close your eyes, relax (while holding on tight!), and focus inward. See if you can reach a relaxed peaceful state as well. (Just don’t try this if you’re the one riding the bike, though — that would be a whole different experience — and not one I recommend!)
It’s proof that mindfulness and peace can show up when you least expect it — even on a motorbike ride. And that’s just one more way to live your Best Life — by trusting (the right people), letting go, and finding calm in the most surprising of places.
Let me know if you ever get a chance to do this! π
FAQ - Meditation and Motorbike Rides
Q - Can I really meditate while riding on the back of a motorbike?
A - Yes, you can! As long as you're riding with an experienced rider you trust, and you're on a bike with a comfortable setup (like a flat seat that allows you to stay relaxed), meditating can be a great way to calm your mind, and stay centered. Just make sure you’re not the one riding the bike — you need to be able to relax, and let go of the fear!
Q - Isn’t it dangerous to close my eyes while riding a motorbike?
A - It can be if you’re the one riding, or if you don’t trust the rider you’re with. However, if you’re a passenger on a bike with an experienced, confident rider, closing your eyes for short periods of time (to meditate) is ok (as long as you’re holding on tightly!) — especially if you're focusing on calming your mind, and not on the traffic. Always make sure you’re comfortable, and at ease with the rider's skill level before you try this — and always make sure you’re holding on tight, no matter how relaxed you get!
Q - How do I meditate while on a bike?
A - The key is to focus inward, and letting go of any fear or anxiety. Start by closing your eyes, if you're comfortable doing so, and focus on your breath, or repeating a calming mantra. Trust in the rider and the bike, and allow yourself to relax into the ride. The physical stability of a flat seat, and a secure hold will help free your mind to focus on peace and mindfulness.
Q - Is this method of meditation effective?
A - Surprisingly, yes! Meditation isn't about the environment — it's about finding stillness in your mind. On a bike, focusing on trust, being present, and releasing fear can help you achieve a peaceful, mindful state. It may sound unusual, but it can work wonders, especially when you need to stay calm in a situation that might otherwise cause stress.
Q - Should I try this if I’m a nervous rider?
A - If you're new to riding or tend to feel nervous, it might be better to start with small, easy rides, and focus on being comfortable with the rider and the bike first. Once you feel confident and secure, you can experiment with closing your eyes, and meditating for short periods. Always listen to your body and mind — if you feel unsafe at any time, stop and take a moment to regain your composure.
Q - Can this technique be used for other forms of transportation?
A - Absolutely! While motorbikes may seem like an unconventional place to meditate, the concept applies to other forms of transportation too. Whether you're on a bus, train, or even walking, you can use mindfulness and meditation to help you stay calm and present. The key is being able to relax, and let go of external distractions, regardless of where you are.
Q - Can I use this technique in everyday life?
A - Yes, the principles of focusing on trust, being present, and releasing fear can be applied to many everyday situations, not just motorbike rides. Whether you're dealing with stressful situations at work, running errands, or navigating personal challenges, practicing mindfulness and meditation can help you stay grounded, and find peace in the moment.
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Disclaimer
This blog shares a personal experience of finding mindfulness and peace while riding as a passenger on a motorbike with a highly experienced rider. It is not intended as advice or encouragement to meditate while riding or operating a motorbike. Safety should always come first — ensure you wear proper protective gear, follow all traffic laws, and remain alert at all times. Meditation should only be practiced when it is safe to do so. The author and publisher are not responsible for any risks, injuries, or consequences resulting from the application of ideas shared in this blog. Ride mindfully and stay safe!
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