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Yeah, I understood the trucker to be a jerk. I think I would have found a reason to get out of the way, if at all possible....just to let him know I wasn't going to play along.
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Komorebi-The light filtering through the trees.
I would rather sit on a pumpkin and have it all to myself than be crowded on a velvet cushion. H.D.T.Comment
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At the distance I was being tail gated, slowing down was not an option because it would increase risk to me and put control of the situation into the cager's hands. Good way to get clipped from behind, possibly intentionally, (in my estimation) since the driver was aggressive. Increasing distance between us to allow space to safely turn off required a speed in excess of 100 mph, and at that point, I feel safer in continuing to increase the distance between us. With the road conditions, 120+ was well within my "comfort" zone. Certainly, I would choose differently if I was not comfortable with enough speed to get away from the guy.
Earl
Originally posted by Craiger View PostKomorebi-The light filtering through the trees.
I would rather sit on a pumpkin and have it all to myself than be crowded on a velvet cushion. H.D.T.Comment
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wow ... that is nice... if i were in market I'd look at a Vstrom-650 ... liter bikes I think are a bit much for me right now... hauling luggage is a thing on my mind though the SV650's do look cool but options for a hauling are limited..besides I have my GS for cruising =) still that is a nice bikeOriginally posted by earlfor View PostIts a bandit 1200S
EarlComment
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Then you made the right decision, Earl. I wasn't refuting that....and apologize if it seemed I did. Lessen the risk, then make the choice.Comment
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It depends on how you ride it. Once acclimated to it, its a big teddy bear, and I spend enough time on it, that the old girl follows my sub conscious thoughts. Its basically an upgraded 1150E, same engine with some modern improvements i.e. different cams, 50 amp demand automotive type alternator, hydraulic clutch, electric instruments and WONDERFUL six piston, dual front brakes that give new meaning to the word STOP. heheh Add some big, sticky radial tires and upgraded suspension and you will find cranking hard through a curve, you need to keep your fingers wrapped closely around the handlebar grips. That is because with the lean angles it is capable of, if you open your hand, you'll be scuffing your fingers on the pavement. LOL Its a wonderful bike for a little, old, grey haired codger that no longer wants to be aggressive and is my alternative to the park bench and watching the pigeons poop. :-)
Earl
Originally posted by Kcwiro View PostKomorebi-The light filtering through the trees.
I would rather sit on a pumpkin and have it all to myself than be crowded on a velvet cushion. H.D.T.Comment
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Everyone rides a bit differently and what works for me may not work for someone else. I never take offense with anyone that would choose to handle a situation differently. As a rule, I try to make a choice that has the least risk and leaves me in control of the situation.
Earl
Originally posted by Craiger View PostKomorebi-The light filtering through the trees.
I would rather sit on a pumpkin and have it all to myself than be crowded on a velvet cushion. H.D.T.Comment
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I might object on the control thing...more or less we don't have full control of everything in our lives certainly riding a bike has made that much clearer to me. Since i don't have the power to keep those folks that don't see me away from causing me harm.
In most cases everyone is just along for the ride but the illusion of control even in bad situations really is just what it is...words on paper/or an idea in the head that does in fact offer comfort but like the wind blowing it goes where it pleases...
little digression there but I am one to correct some when it is implied we are in control when actually we are not .... but it is comforting for some parts heh...
Just my .02 on the control subject ..... sheesh I think I might be too young to be having thoughts like that... *spooky*Last edited by Guest; 04-28-2008, 06:30 PM.Comment
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Hilarious story ..Comment
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Well done! I LOVE a happy ending! :-D\\
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I agree with you that absolute control of the situation is highly unlikely, however, for the majority of circumstances, attainable control is probably greater than 99.9%. When one first learns to ride, it takes about 50% of concentration to operate the bike and the other 50% is spent monitoring perhaps two cars ahead in your lane and keeping a safe distance. As skill level increases, less effort is used to operate the bike. Eventually, zero effort/thought is needed to operate the bike because coordination and mechanical response is reflexive. At that point in the skill curve, situational awareness begins to develop. Some people stop increasing that capability when they can monitor a couple of lanes of traffic on either side and half a dozen car lengths ahead. Beyond that capability one should learn to monitor all pathways that could possibly conflict with an intended path and to increase the range of the monitored area. This includes vehicles, kids, animals, etc. Add in the perceived mental state of those in your sphere and their observed movements. Study traffic flow and develop predictions for the closest 50 cars or items of possible confrontation. Eventually, you will arrive at a comprehensive set of probabilities and predictions with preplanned escape routes and choices for decreasing risk factors. When you are doing it right, no one can do anything that comes as a surprise to you. If you have developed long range situational awareness, it will not stop anyone from doing something stupid, but it will stop them from increasing your risk level. I consider that being in control. But thats just me. If someone prefers to believe in fate, I dont have a problem with that. LOL
Earl
[quote=Kcwiro;808162]I might object on the control thing...more or less we don't have full control of everything in our lives certainly riding a bike has made that much clearer to me. Since i don't have the power to keep those folks that don't see me away from causing me harm.Komorebi-The light filtering through the trees.
I would rather sit on a pumpkin and have it all to myself than be crowded on a velvet cushion. H.D.T.Comment
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I tend to agree with you Earl.Comment
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Well put it that way Earl... dam my head hurts... lol that was well put... I consider myself served =)
I only been riding going on 3rd season.. would like to think my reflex's are good but I know I have much room for improvement... fortunately that skill only increases as you ride longer... me being the noobie that I am just prety much at the point of ignoring my gauges minus the oil press light and focusing entirely on whats around me though quick reactions and manuvering the bike has been slower to develope.. I still get edgy in the rain on a overpass hitting those expansion joints... I know cars behind me hate it but after I'm done turning I speed right backup. Unfortunately I don't think they understand my choice of speed since likely they have never riden a motorcycle before.
...I just need more practice and I'm sure I will get more instinct as I go..ofcourse ensuring Darwin is having a off day... =)Comment
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