Translation guide
How to express the idea of two people riding on a single bicycle, motorcycle, or similar vehicle in Japanese.
The general concept of two people riding on a vehicle designed for one, especially a bicycle or motorcycle.
The most common and natural way to say 'riding double' on a bicycle or motorcycle. It literally means 'two-person riding'.
自転車の二人乗りは危ないです。
Riding double on a bicycle is dangerous.
バイクの二人乗りを楽しんだ。
We enjoyed riding double on the motorcycle.
Referring to the act of riding double in a legal or rule-based context, such as traffic laws.
Also used in legal contexts. Often appears in prohibitions.
ここでは自転車の二人乗りは法律で禁止されています。
Riding double on bicycles is prohibited by law here.
Avoid directly translating 'riding double' as 'ダブルに乗る' or similar. It will not be understood. Stick to '二人乗り' or '二人で乗る'.
A more general phrase meaning 'to ride with two people'. It can be used for various vehicles, not just bicycles or motorcycles.
その自転車に二人で乗るのは禁止されています。
Riding double on that bicycle is prohibited.
Literally 'riding together', but more commonly used for sharing a car, taxi, or ride. Can be used for bicycles/motorcycles in some contexts, but '二人乗り' is more specific.
駅まで相乗りしませんか？
Shall we share a ride to the station?
A common sign or phrase meaning 'riding double prohibited'.
この道は二人乗り禁止です。
Riding double is prohibited on this road.