What is an acceptable speed on a public road?

[The Pastor]

Very simple poll.


I seem to get the feeling (justified or not) that on kb people say "never speed / 120 tops" yet when i ride with the same people the speeds quite quickly reach double that speed.

Personally I have ridden at over 200km/hr - and i see no problem with it. I have been on "L-plate" rides where the leader of the ride is going 40km over the speed limit (that'd be 70 over the l platers).

So as I understand it the majority of riders I've ridden with think the acceptable speed limit is well over 200km/hr, but when you ask them they will say "120-140".

Is this a fair observation?

I do most of my riding by myself and i usually sit at 160-200 (redline to the deadline) but i'll match the group's ride - if its 80km/hr or if its 200km/hr (very top end of my bike). If the group is split, i'll be up the front with the big boys and there very fast toys. If im riding with novices i'll usually let them go in front so i can watch what they are doing and provide feedback. If my mate wants to sit at 100, im more than happy to sit with him for a relaxed ride.

now you know where i'm coming from how about you?

[Slyer]

You forgot to add 20-50 under the speed limit.

[Kendog]

Are you serious?
If you are I would never ride with you, or the people you ride with. Boldly claiming your typical speed is 160+ ????? WTF is up with that?

The sensible side of me thinks this a troll post, especially as I have read your posts before.

[Ronin]

Very simple TRoll.

Fixed that right up for ya.

[The Pastor]

Are you serious?
If you are I would never ride with you, or the people you ride with. Boldly claiming your typical speed is 160+ ????? WTF is up with that?

The sensible side of me thinks this a troll post, especially as I have read your posts before.


Fixed that right up for ya.



No, the is a serious thread based of my own experiences.

Kendog, so what would you say an acceptable speed limit is on the road? And why do you think it should be different from the posted speed limit?

[JimO]

one day we will be seeing a renagade master rip thread

[Ronin]

Acceptable, safe, legal. Never the 3 will meet.
I think you have a pretty good idea of how this thread would go before you started it.

[The Pastor]

one day we will be seeing a renagade master rip thread
Are you suggesting that if I don't speed I won't die?

Why don't you add your views on speeding? what do you consider acceptable? What do you consider safe? Are they the same? How did you come up with that number?

[Kendog]

Kendog, so what would you say an acceptable speed limit is on the road?
The posted speed limit.


And why do you think it should be different from the posted speed limit?
I don't.

Have you heard the saying "The road is not a race track"?
Do you know why that saying exists?

Have you been racing/track days? That's the place to get your kicks out of speeding. Plus you get to show off how good your riding skills really are compared to others.

[The Pastor]

Acceptable, safe, legal. Never the 3 will meet.
I think you have a pretty good idea of how this thread would go before you started it.

yeah but what do you think? Or is this too much of a taboo topic?

[The Pastor]

The posted speed limit.


I don't.

Have you heard the saying "The road is not a race track"?
Do you know why that saying exists?

Have you been racing/track days? That's the place to get your kicks out of speeding. Plus you get to show off how good your riding skills really are compared to others.

so you're saying speeding = racing?

I don't think so tim, When i speed I very rarely have to use my brakes - this is not the fastest way around a corner and therefore can not be considerd racing.

I imagine racing / track days could be fun, but you're never going to get 100+ corners in a race track.

[rapid van cleef]

i ll ride as fast as i can to safely stop / see / avoid hazards that i can. if thats 80 or more, depends on the conditions of the road, my mood and the weather. i think if your riding so fast that you couldnt stop if somthing came round the corner in your lane, then its too fast. thats just my opinion. i have a family and dont want them to scrape me up of the floor if i can help it. if its someone elses fault..............nothing i can do about that!

i did have a biker overtake a car on a bend coming towards me a few weeks ago and they came into my lane..........cunt. and he had a pillion! i was able to tighten up and move over.

id rather keep the fast stuff for the track.

in my experience many other countries law enforcement allow spirited riding aslong as its safe, ie not wet and youre not being a dick or doing it in heavy traffic. not here

[The Pastor]

i ll ride as fast as i can to safely stop / see / avoid hazards that i can. if thats 80 or more, depends on the conditions of the road, my mood and the weather. i think if your riding so fast that you couldnt stop if somthing came round the corner in your lane, then its too fast. thats just my opinion. i have a family and dont want them to scrape me up of the floor if i can help it. if its someone elses fault..............nothing i can do about that!

i did have a biker overtake a car on a bend coming towards me a few weeks ago and they came into my lane..........cunt. and he had a pillion! i was able to tighten up and move over.

id rather keep the fast stuff for the track.

in my experience many other countries law enforcement allow spirited riding aslong as its safe, ie not wet and youre not being a dick or doing it in heavy traffic. not here

so what countries are you referring too?

[rainman]

120-140. It's all she's got!

(Behaviour by design, as it happens...)

[JimO]

Are you suggesting that if I don't speed I won't die?

?

what im saying is if you keep that up you will die, on the open road i sit around 110ks

[pzkpfw]

....on the open road i sit around 110ks

Geez, you're gonna die!

[JimO]

Geez, you're gonna die!

eventually

[pzkpfw]

eventually

Yep, me too.

I sit at about 110 (indicated), usually. According to my GPS and the road-side signs that's "really" more like 100.

But I'll fang it up a bit to pass someone, that's usually around 120-140 (indicated).

If I really think it's "safe" (conditions, traffic, and cops) I might cruise at 120 (indicated).

Occasional bursts of madness have seen me get to about 170-180 (indicated), just to do it, but after that I get scared off by the thought of damage to me, my bike or my license.


The poll is way too simplistic to answer.

[Kendog]

I imagine racing / track days could be fun, but you're never going to get 100+ corners in a race track.
Well there is clearly nothing more I can say to convince you otherwise, based on that statement.

[The Pastor]

Well there is clearly nothing more I can say to convince you otherwise, based on that statement.

My opinion is not easily swayed one way or the other, I do what I want when I want.

[JimO]

I do what I want when I want.

thats your problem right there

[JimO]

sounds like you need a big cup of "grow the fuck up"

[The Pastor]

thats your problem right there


sounds like you need a big cup of "grow the fuck up"

Why? I'm only posting what i've observed on many kb rides. Lots of people say speeding is bad, yet they do it, and they do it well.

[onearmedbandit]

I plead the 6th gear. :mellow:

[EJK]

Only if I ever owned a bike that can go 140kph+

[mynameis]

Can your 250 do 200+ wait till batman sees this thread :lol:

Here kitty, where is he :D

[Number One]

thats your problem right there

Actually not HIS problem....more like OUR problem well actually anyone nearby him on the road perhaps.

FTR - On the open road I sit on no higher than 110. (120 if passing....130 when I haven't paid attention to my speed and it has crept up as I tootle along boring motorways)...naughty naughty!

I do admit to having seen 160 on the dial out in the boondocks on the odd open straight bit of road when only myself and one or two like minded others around....but now I'm all growed up I know that shit could happen even in these situations - think of the sheep!

AND I am a nana who likes the journey as well as the destination!

[Str8 Jacket]

In my case I have two bikes that are grossly out in their speedo readings. On my FXR when my speedo reads 115, it is actually doing 100 on my RG 120 is about 100kph. I once saw 140kph on my FXR which would have in reality been around the 115-120 mark tops. Guess what I am trying to say is that sometimes you aint going as fast as you think you are.
I have no problem with speed if people ride their own ride. What is dangerous is the antics that some people seem to pull just to get to those speeds along with the way they ride. A good rider will be smooth and consistent no matter what speed.

[PrincessBandit]

How many who have posted in the poll would throw a tanty when the inevitable ticket arrives in their letterbox? For surely one will materialise eventually...
I am assuming that those who have chosen the upper limits listed do it where the likelihood of being caught is pretty much nonexistent. I still would not want to share the road with you, but unfortunately me and other road users might not have any say in that matter.

[Scuba_Steve]

I tend to choose a safe comfortable speed over the legal one, which yes usually means I am "speeding" but I care more about my life than a insignificant needle on a insignificant dial and would rather use the time spent looking at these unimportant things on atually watching the road & keeping myself alive, in saying this tho remember I did say "safe, comfortable speed" in no way do I find excessive speeds appropriate. Live by the ACC saying "Drive to the conditions!"

[shellfish]

And we wonder how bikers end up with a shit rep from other road users....

Your speed is not about how well you can handle the conditions, its about allowing for the other road users who dont look for bikes. Or do you really think that car and truck drivers are as capable and considerate as the average biker?
Speed does not kill, but it increases your chances of an accident and increases the injuries you end up with.
How many times can you come off at 160 and survive?

I didnt bother to vote in the poll as its a 'whos the biggest dick' competition.

[The Pastor]

so far 45% of people polled think that speeds over 120km/hr are acceptable. I think this number confirms what I have seen on nearly every ride.

[The Pastor]

And we wonder how bikers end up with a shit rep from other road users....



Do we have a shit rep? The ONLY negative feed back i've had from the non biking road commuinity is about lane splitters on the motorways. Some people complain about speeding motorbikes, but it is far far less than they complain about hoons in there cars.

[Katman]

So as I understand it the majority of riders I've ridden with think the acceptable speed limit is well over 200km/hr, but when you ask them they will say "120-140".


Perhaps that just says more about your poor choice of riding companions than anything else.

[The Pastor]

Perhaps that just says more about your poor choice of riding companions than anything else.

not really my choice, its on the kb rides where anyone can turn up. I do most of my riding alone.

[The Everlasting]

The Posted speed limit. :doh:

[Pascal]

Actually not HIS problem....more like OUR problem well actually anyone nearby him on the road perhaps.

Yup, that's the bit that gets me too. I don't mind fuckwits, I'd just rather they weren't anywhere around me or my family.

[FROSTY]

There is no one single answer to this question.It is and always will/should be situational.
i ride differently on a busy suburban motorway than I do on a wide open country road. I ride different at night than I do at day and different if its wet/damp or dry.
i ride different on a road ive just ridden on an hour before to a road I havent been on for awhile.
Thats not taking into account the bike im riding

[imdying]

So as I understand it the majority of riders I've ridden with think the acceptable speed limit is well over 200km/hr, but when you ask them they will say "120-140".

Is this a fair observation?Yes and no... I think they're telling the truth when they say 120-140 is acceptable. In other words, they know they're riding at an unacceptable pace when they're doing 200.

[The Pastor]

There is no one single answer to this question.It is and always will/should be situational.
i ride differently on a busy suburban motorway than I do on a wide open country road. I ride different at night than I do at day and different if its wet/damp or dry.
i ride different on a road ive just ridden on an hour before to a road I havent been on for awhile.
Thats not taking into account the bike im riding

For arguments sake lets assume the road is in your ideal perfect condtions. What do you think is acceptable and what isnt?

[The Pastor]

Yes and no... I think they're telling the truth when they say 120-140 is acceptable. In other words, they know they're riding at an unacceptable pace when they're doing 200.

but they must think its acceptable if they do it - im not talking about a 1 off, most of them ride very fast very often.

[Quasievil]

I do most of my riding by myself and i usually sit at 160-200 (redline to the deadline)

I think your full of shit and trying to be something youre not i.e a good fast rider, I think you should ride full throttle everywhere

[Ixion]

Do we have a shit rep? The ONLY negative feed back i've had from the non biking road commuinity is about lane splitters on the motorways. Some people complain about speeding motorbikes, but it is far far less than they complain about hoons in there cars.

I concur. People keep talking about this "shit public perception ". I've yet to see it. The only thing anyone complains to me about is lane splitting (and that's just jealousy) and the occasional noisy bike (and that's less than boi-racers). It's a hand wave argument, used to shut down discussion.

As to the original question - it needs clarification.

Do you mean the generally accepted cruising speed - which for me is around 120 - 130 kph, which is what it's been for at least 30 years. Which is predicated by risk of cops, risk of wallys, and the fact that there aren't that many North Island roads where 140+ is practical for long periods. Note that i said "not practical" , not "not safe"

Or do you mean "the speed beyond which is never acceptable even for short periods - such as when overtaking". Which would be a lot higher. Probably 200+ , if the bike can do it. It's very easy indeed on a litre bike to be up to 170 or 180 without specifically intending to do so. No, I will not obsess about keeing to the speed limit when overtaking. I want to be back on my side of the road ASAP.

I must admit I do chuckle when I see people saying "Speed is evil, I never speed" , when they ride bikes capable of two or three times the limit. Yeah, sure. No-one buys a 300kph bike and never uses more than a third of that.

Myself, of course, I never speed. Speed kills, this I know for the government tells me so.

[Mikkel]

For the record, everyone who's replied "the posted speed limit". BAH BAH BAH BAH. Good on you, you sheep - now go and buy a Suzuki Swift.

The acceptable speed comes down to a huge numbers of factors, the speed limit isn't one of them. The individual competency of the operator does factor in - but not to a very high degree really. Anyone who fails/refuses to think for them self we can do without!


Your speed is not about how well you can handle the conditions, its about allowing for the other road users who dont look for bikes. Or do you really think that car and truck drivers are as capable and considerate as the average biker?

Most likely yes! There are plenty of dickheads on two wheels - why else would group riding be considered a high-risk activity by many experienced riders?

And you can speed (relative to the posted limit) excessively and still retain ample allowance for external factors. ...provided you know the road well, have been through there recently and know there isn't any hidden dangers.

This thread high-lights the real irony of the errant "Speed kills!" campaign - namely that many motorists now considers the police a road hazard you need to keep an eye out for.


Speed does not kill, but it increases your chances of an accident and increases the injuries you end up with.

Can you find anything to support the part of your statement which I have highlighted? And, no, crying and mumbling something about common sense isn't a valid answer. (Besides, it should be risk of an accident - not chance of an accident, unless you are a masochist.)


How many times can you come off at 160 and survive?

That very much depends on whether you hit something while you are sliding or not. You may as well fall off at 30 km/h and get run over by a truck...

[imdying]

but they must think its acceptable if they do it - im not talking about a 1 off, most of them ride very fast very often.What I'm saying is that they know it's not acceptable to ride at 200km/hr, but they do it anyway.

Just because you know it's unacceptable to speed like a mofo, doesn't necessarily mean you're not going to do it.

[marty]

I ride however fast I feel like at the time. Sometimes that's 80k, sometimes 180+. Even on a perfect road in perfect conditions I sometimes find myself at 80 with my visor up enjoying the smells and sights. Usually a lot faster at night though. The best I've seen at night (3am) on the southern was 280 indicated, passing a line of trucks - truck/truck/truck/truck/patrol car. The disco lights didn't even come on, and I didn't even sit up.....

Otherwise in traffic, SH1, usually 120-140k.

[FROSTY]

well in my "ideal perfect conditions" I go as fast as im comfortable going. But then my ideal perfect condition is the racetrack.
But thats no answering your question. answering for me alone--noone around memy answer is still Im sorry it depends.
sometimes Its 100km/h (in a 100k zone) and sometimes its a bit/lot faster.
Right NOW I know damb well I'm dripping with rust due to fark all riding. so Ill be at 100km/h

[Katman]

Can you find anything to support the part of your statement which I have highlighted?


My take on it is that as your speed increases your ability to react to circumstances decreases exponentially.

[marty]

Not the ability KM - just the time available.

[Katman]

Not the ability KM - just the time available.

Your ability to react adequately in the time available.

Happy?

[Mikkel]

My take on it is that as your speed increases your ability to react to circumstances decreases exponentially.


Not the ability KM - just the time available.


Your ability to react adequately in the time available.

Happy?

Just to be a nitpicker... The time doesn't decrease exponentially, the relationship is inversely proportional. dx/dt = v <=> dt = dx/v. :yes:

Now, if you double your speed, v, you'll have the same time available if you just double the available distance, dx. Of course, the distance you travel, inside a given time, increases directly proportionally to the speed, so you could argue that there's an inverse square relationship between the speed and your ability to react adequately. Not exponential, that's something entirely different... :D

[Katman]

Just to be a nitpicker... The time doesn't decrease exponentially, the relationship is inversely proportional. dx/dt = v <=> dt = dx/v. :yes:

Now, if you double your speed, v, you'll have the same time available if you just double the available distance, dx. Of course, the distance you travel, inside a given time, increases directly proportionally to the speed, so you could argue that there's an inverse square relationship between the speed and your ability to react adequately.

Yes, that's the word I was looking for.

:crazy:

[Stormer]

If I know the road, there`s NO traffic, and feel like going for it, then yeah, why the hell not.
If the conditions are sweet, and the bikes up to it, then do it!
There IS life beyond 100k y`know.

It`s like good sex.
A real blast, and what the hell, it`s only for 3 minutes!!

[MIXONE]

Any bike will last you a lifetime if you ride it fast enough...

[CRF119]

This is the sort of post i would have started but i didnt as it will just turn into people going nuts. They have the right to go nuts after all people like myself that speed choose to break the law.

Its not about breaking the law its about going fast enough to get that feeling that you are just on edge as your foot peg is scraping the ground and the back end is just starting to slide. Yes you can get that feeling on a track but its the same corners every time, on the road the corner combinations are endless with changes in surface, camber, dircetion, elevation, temp and scenery.

Im not going to say what speeds i have reached top speed isnt important, but if you look at those signs that have the recomended speed on them (Sometimes helpfull) a general speed to and from to work for me would be double what that sign says with little or no braking up to the corner. I think that is sutied to every day riding any more and you the tyre bill mounts up. My mate will ruin a rear tyre every 2,000km on the road and a front every 3,000km. (On a Yami R1)

[marty]

Yes, that's the word I was looking for.

:crazy:

you should have found it before opening your gob then

[Pascal]

Its not about breaking the law its about going fast enough to get that feeling that you are just on edge as your foot peg is scraping the ground and the back end is just starting to slide.


Im not going to say what speeds i have reached top speed isnt important, but if you look at those signs that have the recomended speed on them (Sometimes helpfull) a general speed to and from to work for me would be double what that sign says with little or no braking up to the corner.

Accidents can happen at any speed. Bikers can die at (just about) any speed. A lot of the situations are circumstantial. But, here is a hypothetical question for you.

You're on your way to work at double the speed limit, on the edge so your rear is just about sliding out and then fuck, it does. Full on slide through a group of kids on their caterpillar walk to school. When you wake up you hear you've killed seven of them, their teacher and lost both your legs.

Was it worth it?

Here's another one, same general scenario, but you smash into a cyclist, out for his morning ride. He also dies. Turns out he is the father to a a few young children and his wife's been at home taking care of the children.

Are you going to man up to his wife and explain that you breaking the law got her husband killed? Are you going to be there to take care of her and to ensure she has money for the rest of her life? Are you going walk his daughters down the aisle and be there when their boyfriends hurt them, etc? Will you be responsible enough to take the role of husband and father to that family you just ruined?

In other words, you are willing to accept the risk by speeding. I get that. Are you willing to accept all the risk for it? Will you take the responsibility and consequences that come with your actions as well?

[marty]

That can happen whether you're speeding or not, and frankly, being prepared to wear the consequences of your actions is of little relief to those that you have affected. It's a matter of minimising the risk, so if the terrible things do happen, you can hand on heart say 'i did everything to prevent this from occuring, but sometimes, shit happens'.

[Katman]

I ride however fast I feel like at the time. Sometimes that's 80k, sometimes 180+.

And this from an ex-cop who not that long ago would have been gleefully handing out tickets for 111kph.

:tugger:

[scumdog]

No, the is a serious thread based of my own experiences.

Kendog, so what would you say an acceptable speed limit is on the road? And why do you think it should be different from the posted speed limit?

MY answer: Not 200kph for sure.(and ya can't do that speed for long in NZ anyway)

[Quasievil]

And this from an ex-cop who not that long ago would have been gleefully handing out tickets for 111kph.

:tugger:

I would doubt the cops hand out tickets "gleefully" thats just the perception because the receiver is pissed off. Who does there job "gleefully" anyway.......no one I know
break the speed limit get a ticket, we have always known this and things will not change anytime soon.

Despite all the above dribble if you speed you are more likely to have a crash....................thats it, period

Do I speed, yes of course have done and will do, but im not under any false illusions about it and the risks associated with doing so.

[Pascal]

That can happen whether you're speeding or not, and frankly, being prepared to wear the consequences of your actions is of little relief to those that you have affected. It's a matter of minimising the risk, so if the terrible things do happen, you can hand on heart say 'i did everything to prevent this from occuring, but sometimes, shit happens'.

True, which is what I indicated in the first portion of the post. As you say though ... it's a matter of minimising the risk. And the attitude of "going fast enough to get that feeling that you are just on edge as your foot peg is scraping the ground" certainly is not. I'm pretty sure he's not Valentino Rossi.

[Katman]

I would doubt the cops hand out tickets "gleefully" thats just the perception because the receiver is pissed off.


Gleefully, or not - it's the hypocrisy that stinks.

[crazyhorse]

I would say that there is a difference between what you may think is acceptable.................. versus what you actually ride. We tend to ride between 150-200km/hr on our rides. But I don't necessarily think this is acceptable . However, I do think that sitting on 140km/hr on a public road is actually acceptable riding. (and I am talking about the motorcycle world - not general jo bloggs)

So as your poll is about Acceptable riding speed - I am not sure what is best to put....... because it is not necessarily how I ride. However, it does depend on the kind of road too - windy or sweepers etc

[one fast tl1ooo]

I would say that there is a difference between what you may think is acceptable.................. versus what you actually ride. We tend to ride between 150-200km/hr on our rides. But I don't necessarily think this is acceptable . However, I do think that sitting on 140km/hr on a public road is actually acceptable riding. (and I am talking about the motorcycle world - not general jo bloggs)

So as your poll is about Acceptable riding speed - I am not sure what is best to put....... because it is not necessarily how I ride. However, it does depend on the kind of road too - windy or sweepers etc

What she said :done:

[Mikkel]

However, I do think that sitting on 140km/hr on a public road is actually acceptable riding. (and I am talking about the motorcycle world - not general jo bloggs)

Bwahahahahaha, you've got to appreciate good irony.

The motorcycle world? What the hell is that supposed to mean anyway? While I agree that 140 km/h is a reasonable velocity to travel at in certain parts of the country, I can't see how that should depend upon vehicle type - if anything a motorcycle is more vulnerable to unexpected changes in road conditions than a car.

[CRF119]

True, which is what I indicated in the first portion of the post. As you say though ... it's a matter of minimising the risk. And the attitude of "going fast enough to get that feeling that you are just on edge as your foot peg is scraping the ground" certainly is not. I'm pretty sure he's not Valentino Rossi.

Isnt it great on here how a person who dosent even know me assumes i can't ride., happens all the time.

Also my trip home home each day is country roads other then passing one school where the nessasary speed is done.

[BoristheBiter]

Accidents can happen at any speed. Bikers can die at (just about) any speed. A lot of the situations are circumstantial. But, here is a hypothetical question for you.

You're on your way to work at double the speed limit, on the edge so your rear is just about sliding out and then fuck, it does. Full on slide through a group of kids on their caterpillar walk to school. When you wake up you hear you've killed seven of them, their teacher and lost both your legs.

Was it worth it?

Here's another one, same general scenario, but you smash into a cyclist, out for his morning ride. He also dies. Turns out he is the father to a a few young children and his wife's been at home taking care of the children.

Are you going to man up to his wife and explain that you breaking the law got her husband killed? Are you going to be there to take care of her and to ensure she has money for the rest of her life? Are you going walk his daughters down the aisle and be there when their boyfriends hurt them, etc? Will you be responsible enough to take the role of husband and father to that family you just ruined?

In other words, you are willing to accept the risk by speeding. I get that. Are you willing to accept all the risk for it? Will you take the responsibility and consequences that come with your actions as well?

If's, but's, maybes, possabilitys, why get out of bed.
what about the mother so worried about picking up little johnny runs over a biker stopped in the middle of the road, bet she wont care. (has happened)

I used to travel 130-140 on good open roads and about 5-10k over on normal streets.
After the 28day rest peroid i now do a lot less as i would like to keep my licence.

[BoristheBiter]

True, which is what I indicated in the first portion of the post. As you say though ... it's a matter of minimising the risk. And the attitude of "going fast enough to get that feeling that you are just on edge as your foot peg is scraping the ground" certainly is not. I'm pretty sure he's not Valentino Rossi.

No Valentino Rossi rides a Yamaha

[Jantar]

The acceptable speed to ride has nothing to do with the speed limit, so your poll about various ranges over the limit are just rubbish.

The acceptable speed is the one that you are comfortable with, where you allow yourself time to see and apreciate the hazards, where you are able to corner with a little bit in reserve, and where you can stop easily in the clear distance ahead. I know plenty of roads where the acceptable speed to ride is 40 kmh below the speed limit, and if you were to ride at the speed limit you will crash. There are plenty of other roads where the speed limit is designed to send you to sleep.

[Pascal]

Isnt it great on here how a person who dosent even know me assumes i can't ride., happens all the time.

This becomes a pointless debate after a while. There are some bikers who focus on themselves and will do anything for their enjoyment. There are others who feel differently about it and will enjoy their riding while taking as few as possible risks with other people. The two rarely meet. It's just part of life and biking.

You might be a brilliant rider. You might be shit. I don't know, I don't care. Your attitude and comments suggests to me that you're riding right on the edge though, so I asked you if you would be willing to take responsibility if things turned to custard because you were on that edge. It was a hypothetical question, to guage your attitude.

So, would you take that responsiblity?


If's, but's, maybes, possabilitys, why get out of bed.
what about the mother so worried about picking up little johnny runs over a biker stopped in the middle of the road, bet she wont care

Sure, accidents happen. And they can happen at any speed, in any circumstance to any rider whether he is skilled or not. We're not in control of random things like oil slicks, tires that blow out, random mechanical failures or any other events like that. What we are in control of is our attitude, our approach to events and leaving an appropriate safety margin so we have a chance to recover when / if the shit hits the fan.

And of course having the willingness to accept what comes when it does and to take responsiblity for the RIDERs mistake.

[ManDownUnder]

Ideally the law would cater to all circumstances individually with the aim of keeping us safe from harm from others (and IMHO to a lesser extend from ourselves in the case of ignorance being dangerous). The practical reality is that it can't be done. The law says open road speed limit = 100kph. Don't care if it'saverage road going from A to B, if it's wide open spaces, flat straight , locked off no other traffic or if it's buzzing with locusts and visibility is sweet FA.

Overlay that with Police management doing their job to achieve specific goals -reduce road toll or whatever... and you get the situation where a cop is required by the peopel that pay them to give ticket for 110.0003kph on an empty straight clear piece of road that is used every 2nd weekend as a drag strip.

The cop is doing all the right things for all the right reasons as they are required to do, and the motorist is royally pissed off (based on confusion and an unwillingness to actually accept the fact they broke the law), but misplaces their frustration. The cop is the agent of the system. Getting pissy at the messenger only makes the messenger annoyed, and in this case the messenger carries a ticket book... so they actually have the power too.

[crazyhorse]

Bwahahahahaha, you've got to appreciate good irony.

The motorcycle world? What the hell is that supposed to mean anyway? While I agree that 140 km/h is a reasonable velocity to travel at in certain parts of the country, I can't see how that should depend upon vehicle type - if anything a motorcycle is more vulnerable to unexpected changes in road conditions than a car.

I would drive my car comfortably on the road at 140 km/hr too, and have done so many times too. :whistle:

[BoristheBiter]

Sure, accidents happen. And they can happen at any speed, in any circumstance to any rider whether he is skilled or not. We're not in control of random things like oil slicks, tires that blow out, random mechanical failures or any other events like that. What we are in control of is our attitude, our approach to events and leaving an appropriate safety margin so we have a chance to recover when / if the shit hits the fan.

And of course having the willingness to accept what comes when it does and to take responsiblity for the RIDERs mistake.

I don't know what point you are trying to make here as you brought up the accident thing first. i was just pointing out that if you thought of all the things that could go wrong you would live in a bubble.

I have had some very close calls because of other people on the road in my 30 years on the road so bringing that type of argument into a thread about what speed you find acceptable just seems pointless.

[Katman]

For those who think excessively high speed is acceptable, would you consider it acceptable if every vehicle operator were allowed to do those speeds?

Because, for the life of me, I can't figure out why motorcyclists should consider themselves above any other road user.

[saxet]

For those who think excessively high speed is acceptable, would you consider it acceptable if every vehicle operator were allowed to do those speeds?

Because, for the life of me, I can't figure out why motorcyclists should consider themselves above any other road user.

Does anyone find it scarey that he's making sense?

[onearmedbandit]

For those who think excessively high speed is acceptable, would you consider it acceptable if every vehicle operator were allowed to do those speeds?

Because, for the life of me, I can't figure out why motorcyclists should consider themselves above any other road user.



Coz we got da mad skillz bro!

[Richard Mc F]

You can do anything if you are prepared tp face the consequences

[Swoop]

The correct answer is "ride to the conditions".

Don't be fooled by propaganda or a speedlimit that has been set because some knob sitting in an office in Wellytown says so. Think for yourself.
Sometimes a 50kmh road is better at 40k, and conversely, there are roads around where you can see three digits on the speedo (beginning with a #2 or even a #3) where the conditions are appropriate.

[Pascal]

I don't know what point you are trying to make here as you brought up the accident thing first. i was just pointing out that if you thought of all the things that could go wrong you would live in a bubble.

I have had some very close calls because of other people on the road in my 30 years on the road so bringing that type of argument into a thread about what speed you find acceptable just seems pointless.

Ah, the joys of the internet. One of the few places where even partial agreement is seen as argumentative. I'm agreeing with you that you cannot remove all risk and that you cannot consider everything, but adding to (what I read as your point) that by saying you can leave yourself wiggle room.

[HenryDorsetCase]

I voted 80+ over. who are you buncha pricks to tell me how fast I can go or what speed I should be doing? Screw you I am going to go as fast as I want, when I want. Naked swilling Jack Daniels on one wheel at 230kph past a school for handicapped kids and their pets. Its all about living free and sticking it up the Man,* yo!




*not in that way you grubby bastards. Well not often.

[BoristheBiter]

Ah, the joys of the internet. One of the few places where even partial agreement is seen as argumentative. I'm agreeing with you that you cannot remove all risk and that you cannot consider everything, but adding to (what I read as your point) that by saying you can leave yourself wiggle room.

Ok My bad, read it again, should do that more often.

[marty]

And this from an ex-cop who not that long ago would have been gleefully handing out tickets for 111kph.

:tugger:

I didn't give a single ticket for 111. So now you can get fucked. (at least I say it in public forum)

[Katman]

I didn't give a single ticket for 111. So now you can get fucked. (at least I say it in public forum)

How about 115kph?

120kph?..............

125kph?..............

130kph?...............

(We've got a long way to go before we get to 180+kph).:whistle:

[PrincessBandit]

MY answer: Not 200kph for sure.(and ya can't do that speed for long in NZ anyway)

Is that because in such a small country we will fall off the edge of the world?

[red mermaid]

He was only ever a cop for 8 hours a day, and now he is an ex, the same as you could be an ex human being, etc.



How about 115kph?

120kph?..............

125kph?..............

130kph?...............

(We've got a long way to go before we get to 180+kph).:whistle:

[Ixion]

Is that because in such a small country we will fall off the edge of the world?

No, but your feet will get wet.

[ManDownUnder]

For those who think excessively high speed is acceptable, would you consider it acceptable if every vehicle operator were allowed to do those speeds?

Don't be silly - they clearly aren't as good as us

[ManDownUnder]

You can do anything if you are prepared tp face the consequences

aaa yes - but are you prepared to suffer the consequences of my choices? bit fast, wide on a corner... in my Pajero and Whoopsie Richard Mc F is a gone burger. Very sorry. I do the time etc... and you're dead.

Because I for one am not willing to suffer the choices of fools around me on the roads - and God knows I've met a few on group rides.

[Kendog]

For those who think excessively high speed is acceptable, would you consider it acceptable if every vehicle operator were allowed to do those speeds?

Because, for the life of me, I can't figure out why motorcyclists should consider themselves above any other road user.

That is so true.
I have had a couple of cars that were capable of well over 200kph. Does that mean I should be allowed to drive at 200 on a nice open road?

[The Everlasting]

That is so true.
I have had a couple of cars that were capable of well over 200kph. Does that mean I should be allowed to drive at 200 on a nice open road?

No!

I too have a car that will do well over 200km/h,that doesn't mean I will be an idiot and do it,I will save that for the racetrack.

[Kendog]

No!
I too have a car that will do well over 200km/h,that doesn't mean I will be an idiot and do it,I will save that for the racetrack.
I have bikes that can do well over 200 as well. That must be ok cause bikes are better than cars.

[Ixion]

I have bikes that can do well over 200 as well. That must be ok cause bikes are better than cars.

But why? Since by your own statement you never exceed half that figure? Pointless, surely. Wasteful also.

[Kendog]

But why? Since by your own statement you never exceed half that figure? Pointless, surely. Wasteful also.
Yep, very wasteful.
But I am willing to pay for a bike that rides like the K7 GSXR while only using half of it's potential speed. Because I really enjoy the way it rides in that half.

The reality is I don't have the desire to speed on the road anymore. I have discovered track riding. (god, that sounds like some religious babel, perhaps I should start a cult)

[The Everlasting]

I have bikes that can do well over 200 as well. That must be ok cause bikes are better than cars.

So you won't do 200 in your car,but you don't mind doing it on your bike? :lol: :doh:

[Kendog]

Just to clarify, I was being sarcastic about driving/riding on the road at 200k.

[The Everlasting]

Oh,good..:p

[peasea]

No!

I too have a car that will do well over 200km/h,that doesn't mean I will be an idiot and do it,I will save that for the racetrack.

I too have a car capable of 200kph, well at least that's what the speedo told me (for a nanosecond, then I put my focus back on the road where it belongs) but I've only done it once. Same for my bike. It's all about choosing the moment/place etc. The last time I approached 200 was on my bike somewhere in the Lewis Pass, nothing for miles, perfect vision/weather etc.

Does that make me an idiot?

[peasea]

MY answer: Not 200kph for sure.(and ya can't do that speed for long in NZ anyway)

As much as it pains me to agree, I agree.

OUCH!

[Ixion]

I too have a car capable of 200kph, well at least that's what the speedo told me (for a nanosecond, then I put my focus back on the road where it belongs) but I've only done it once. Same for my bike. It's all about choosing the moment/place etc. The last time I approached 200 was on my bike somewhere in the Lewis Pass, nothing for miles, perfect vision/weather etc.

Does that make me an idiot?

Yes. Welcome to the club. We meet every alternate Thursday , in a pub near you.

[peasea]

So you won't do 200 in your car,but you don't mind doing it on your bike? :lol: :doh:

I've done it with both, big fuckin deal.

I'd rather boast about how many k's done and managed to live to tell the tales. (And show the pics.) Nothing wrong with a good fang now and then though, just gotta watch where you do it and make sure you can't see any other traffic. I've always buttoned off when I've seen another vehicle approaching because when that happens you're not just dealing your own cards.

[peasea]

Yes. Welcome to the club. We meet every alternate Thursday , in a pub near you.

As it happens...........I live in a village, how handy.

[SPman]

Is that because in such a small country we will fall off the edge of the world?
No....more falling off the edge of a word.......

[peasea]

No....more falling off the edge of a word.......

Buggerrrr
r
r
r

[SPman]

I concur. People keep talking about this "shit public perception ". I've yet to see it. The only thing anyone complains to me about is lane splitting (and that's just jealousy) and the occasional noisy bike (and that's less than boi-racers). It's a hand wave argument, used to shut down discussion.

As to the original question - it needs clarification.

Do you mean the generally accepted cruising speed - which for me is around 120 - 130 kph, which is what it's been for at least 30 years. Which is predicated by risk of cops, risk of wallys, and the fact that there aren't that many North Island roads where 140+ is practical for long periods. Note that i said "not practical" , not "not safe"

Or do you mean "the speed beyond which is never acceptable even for short periods - such as when overtaking". Which would be a lot higher. Probably 200+ , if the bike can do it. It's very easy indeed on a litre bike to be up to 170 or 180 without specifically intending to do so. No, I will not obsess about keeing to the speed limit when overtaking. I want to be back on my side of the road ASAP.

I must admit I do chuckle when I see people saying "Speed is evil, I never speed" , when they ride bikes capable of two or three times the limit. Yeah, sure. No-one buys a 300kph bike and never uses more than a third of that.

Myself, of course, I never speed. Speed kills, this I know for the government tells me so.What I would have said, but beaten to it, more eloquently, by Les.

[stify]

Because, for the life of me, I can't figure out why motorcyclists should consider themselves above any other road user.

it's because we have higher acc levies....spend more take more

[JimO]

it's because we have higher acc levies....spend more take more

take more cost more

[stify]

take more cost more

well it's working then ;)

[marty]

^^^ is the reason cops don't usually ride in public groups.

[stify]

^^^ is the reason cops don't usually ride in public groups.

I've rode with a coupla cop's...just as bad as the rest of us...everyones gota have their fun

[red mermaid]

You wouldn't have clue mate, cause they only wear uniforms at work, rest of the time they are normal people just like you?!



^^^ is the reason cops don't usually ride in public groups.

[bent12]

As good as it sounds regularly doing 160 - 200K where I ride in the top of the south would transform you from kiwibiker to kiwiwalker faster than Bill English claiming a dodgey perk

[_Shrek_]

i just voted 80+ K's over the speed limit as it said, what is an acceptable speed on a public road :slap: but it should hve read 0-20 k's over

[onearmedbandit]

Sure sure, you just realised it's a public poll more likely.

[crystalball]

I sit between 105km and 109km i will only overtake cages if they are going slower than 105km or i find them uncomfortable to ride behind, but i enjoy overtaking as many cages as possiable.

[marty]

You wouldn't have clue mate, cause they only wear uniforms at work, rest of the time they are normal people just like you?!

I'm not normal.

[peasea]

^^^ is the reason cops don't usually ride in public groups.

....and they smell funny.........

[peasea]

I'm not normal.

er........ain't that the truth..........

[ynot slow]

0-20km over the open limit,not in town is my opinion,and most I'd suggest,also 120km on radar or gps might be 125 on speedo,so I'm all for 125km on speedo.

[Maha]

Road speed is a personal judgement call, 10 kph over is acceptable (with two 'C's) by the H/Way Patrol.
What is acceptable by those who post and vote on here may not be the acceptable by law.

Nobody on here is a 'Law maker', so I conclude that everyone just carry on with whatever speed they are comfortable with, whether it be within the bounds of acceptability or not by Law. Because cleary, that whats been going ever since the speed limit has been law.

[The Pastor]

Road speed is a personal judgement call, 10 kph over is acceptable (with two 'C's) by the H/Way Patrol.
What is acceptable by those who post and vote on here may not be the acceptable by law.

Nobody on here is a 'Law maker', so I conclude that everyone just carry on with whatever speed they are comfortable with, whether it be within the bounds of acceptability or not by Law. Because cleary, that whats been going ever since the speed limit has been law.
i make the law

[2wheeldrifter]

......................

[Hailwood]

Having sifted through this thread (which I believe should win the title of troll thread of the year so far), let mm get this right..its ok to go as fast as you like as long as the conditions are right..no traffic, nice road conditions, no other hazards??? I know that road..ITS CALLED A RACETRACK. All this macho BS about I can ride as fast as I like because I am a great rider etc etc..ok hotshots..you are howling along a country road at 200kph+ on your bike..no cars, sunny day..the perfect day...and oh no farmer Giles has left a gate open and 5 sheep run into the road in front of you..of course your amazing skills mean you can stop from 200kph in 10 feet or swerve through them (Tui ad anyone?).

You might be a great rider but the tourist in the campervan coming the other way on the straight road might decide that he is on the wrong side and swerve into your lane..nothing to do with your skills but you die anyway...the point is that the correct speed takes into consideration all possibilities (visible and implied) surely. I have only been riding for 30 years and am still learning. I always assume that other people on the road (in cars, trucks, vans etc) are blind learners and treat them accordingly. So far it seems to work fine.

The other point is this..whether it is right or wrong we have a legal speed limit. If you CHOOSE to exceed it and get caught, then you get a ticket. Its your choice..nothing more nothing less...

[The Pastor]

Having sifted through this thread (which I believe should win the title of troll thread of the year so far), let mm get this right..its ok to go as fast as you like as long as the conditions are right..no traffic, nice road conditions, no other hazards??? I know that road..ITS CALLED A RACETRACK. All this macho BS about I can ride as fast as I like because I am a great rider etc etc..ok hotshots..you are howling along a country road at 200kph+ on your bike..no cars, sunny day..the perfect day...and oh no farmer Giles has left a gate open and 5 sheep run into the road in front of you..of course your amazing skills mean you can stop from 200kph in 10 feet or swerve through them (Tui ad anyone?).

You might be a great rider but the tourist in the campervan coming the other way on the straight road might decide that he is on the wrong side and swerve into your lane..nothing to do with your skills but you die anyway...the point is that the correct speed takes into consideration all possibilities (visible and implied) surely. I have only been riding for 30 years and am still learning. I always assume that other people on the road (in cars, trucks, vans etc) are blind learners and treat them accordingly. So far it seems to work fine.

The other point is this..whether it is right or wrong we have a legal speed limit. If you CHOOSE to exceed it and get caught, then you get a ticket. Its your choice..nothing more nothing less...

you speed people die

[slofox]

you speed people die

Actually, even if you wrap yourself up in cotton wool and store yourself in a glass case at home, people will still die...:whistle:

As regards speed, the general consensus seems to be "just on the speed limit if there is a copper about and as fast as you can go if there isn't..."

In the 42 years I have been riding I have had ONE speeding ticket and that was because I was "testing" my bike on the public highway. The rest of the time I have been a cunning old bugger...and fucking lucky to boot...

In reality, if there is ANY traffic on the road I will stay within the "acceptable limit", just holding my place in the traffic. If I want to go fast I will only do so on a deserted road. And I mean deserted - no cars anywhere in sight. That way, if I arse off I will only damage myself, not anyone else. I have mentioned before on this site that many years ago I had a very lucky escape from probably killing a little kid who ran out of a driveway. I decided then that I had no right to kill someone's kid - or any other person come to that. And neither does anyone else IMO.

[White trash]

I've seen 247 on the clock of the K4 on one wheel. That was good fun, I was worried about what was gonna happen when it touched down. Thankfully fuck all.

As for finding 100kay + corners on a track, or rather lack thereof, if you ride like a girl perhaps. Pukekohe has only one turn you wouldn't do over 100kays on, unless (as perviously staed RM) you ride like a girl which I very much suspect.

Manfeild has plenty as does Taupo. So I think, as usual, you have very little basis of fact on which to base your comments.

[Hailwood]

Manfeild has plenty as does Taupo. So I think, as usual, you have very little basis of fact on which to base your comments.

And this is different that usual for Rearend Master how?..as I said the biggest troll thread so far..maybe we should just let it die

[White trash]

How's that Buell treating ya man? Let me know if you're ever up in Auckland, need to catch up for a beer sometime.

[Viscount Montgomery]

There's just so many WANKER RIDERS that live in fantasy-land on this site. I'm not whining either, it's just a simple fact.

Trawl thru the threads and read the pitiful comments from the established dick-whacker brigade around here. Comments like "I'm naturally quick" "giving the learn" "my skills are high" "most bins wins" " I always ride as fast as possible" "I always sit on 160+"...

Blah blah blah blah, what a whole load of fucken posturing fucken shyte. It shows you the fucktard mentality of all these WANKER RIDERS out on the roads.

All seemingly on a mission to prove to the world that they're a special,cool, elite breed or some shit. WANK WANK WANK...

To the pus-heads here who all love strapping off amongst each other, and who all regard themselves as 200+kph open road traffic heros, haul your tongues out of your own arses and fucken get real

[Maha]

There's just so many WANKER RIDERS that live in fantasy-land on this site. I'm not whining either, it's just a simple fact.

Trawl thru the threads and read the pitiful comments from the established dick-whacker brigade around here. Comments like "I'm naturally quick" "giving the learn" "my skills are high" "most bins wins" " I always ride as fast as possible" "I always sit on 160+"...

Blah blah blah blah, what a whole load of fucken posturing fucken shyte. It shows you the fucktard mentality of all these WANKER RIDERS out on the roads.

All seemingly on a mission to prove to the world that they're a special,cool, elite breed or some shit. WANK WANK WANK...

To the pus-heads here who all love strapping off amongst each other, and who all regard themselves as 200+kph open road traffic heros, haul your tongues out of your own arses and fucken get real

You forgot....''Im not coming if it aint a race''.

[R1madness]

LoL i think this thread is great. Accpetable limits are set by public opinion and govt regulation. However if we are talking unacceptable limits (which i think we are) then it is usually set by the group you are riding with , a quick chat before and during the ride sets the limits or "code of conduct" for the ride.
For example one group i ride with has an "open speed look after yourself" policy, where another group is just as fast but has a more cooperative agreement where we stick together on the road and share the cost of any speding fees amoungst ourselves, the lead rider has a radar detector, wears the all the demerits (unfortunately we cant share them) but none of the costs. In a group of 10 bikes the fee for 139km is les than the cost of fuel for the day....

[onearmedbandit]

There's just so many WANKER RIDERS that live in fantasy-land on this site. I'm not whining either, it's just a simple fact.

Trawl thru the threads and read the pitiful comments from the established dick-whacker brigade around here. Comments like "I'm naturally quick" "giving the learn" "my skills are high" "most bins wins" " I always ride as fast as possible" "I always sit on 160+"...

l

Haven't seen any serious comments like the two I underlined above on this site, or any other for that matter. Happy to be proven wrong, but I think you're exaggerating a tad there.

[Hailwood]

How's that Buell treating ya man? Let me know if you're ever up in Auckland, need to catch up for a beer sometime.

I love my Buell and hell yes will let you know next time heading up that way......

[imdying]

As for finding 100kay + corners on a track, or rather lack thereof, if you ride like a girl perhaps. Pukekohe has only one turn you wouldn't do over 100kays on, unless (as perviously staed RM) you ride like a girl which I very much suspect.

Manfeild has plenty as does Taupo. So I think, as usual, you have very little basis of fact on which to base your comments.What he said :yes:

I don't have a huge amount of track time, but enough to know that 100km/hr corners are just an idea in your head, and don't actually exist perse; you never actually look at your speedo (I try to masking tape it up, when I remember). The real joy comes from being able to ride any line you choose (I mean fast or slow, not all over the show), without having to worry about the usual road gotchas (gravel, traffic, lamp posts, long drops to a firey death, that sort of stuff), total commitment to the task at hand as it were. Sometimes that joy comes at 60, sometimes at 100, sometimes faster :yes:

[PrincessBandit]

There's just so many WANKER RIDERS that live in fantasy-land on this site. I'm not whining either, it's just a simple fact.

Trawl thru the threads and read the pitiful comments from the established dick-whacker brigade around here. Comments like "I'm naturally quick" "giving the learn" "my skills are high" "most bins wins" " I always ride as fast as possible" "I always sit on 160+"...

Blah blah blah blah, what a whole load of fucken posturing fucken shyte. It shows you the fucktard mentality of all these WANKER RIDERS out on the roads.

All seemingly on a mission to prove to the world that they're a special,cool, elite breed or some shit. WANK WANK WANK...

To the pus-heads here who all love strapping off amongst each other, and who all regard themselves as 200+kph open road traffic heros, haul your tongues out of your own arses and fucken get real

Holy crapola batman!! you sound like some other well known member on this site....(or is it only me who thinks this?) although I've never heard him use the term pus-head.

[oldrider]

This message is hidden because 220 Ohms is on your ignore list.
View Post (http://mybroadband.co.za/photos/data/630/Alf101.jpg)
Remove user from ignore list (http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/profile.php?do=ignorelist)

WTF is this? I don't even know how to put anyone on an "ignore list" ? Never have, probably never will! :oi-grr:

[JimO]

i had the same thing

[Slyer]

It's just him being an idiot. He typed those things.

[FruitLooPs]

I'm one of those boring sods who sticks close to the speed limit, don't make it up over 110k. I reckon because of a third potential fines another third irritating bar vibrations and lastly common sense. I'm only human though and if i'm presented with a few cars going slower than myself on a deserted straight i'm like anyone else who will zip on past 120-130k and after back to 110.

Track racing is great fun in a safer environment, and a real eye opener on the difference between road riding and racing. Highly recommended, even buckets would be a great laugh I reckon :D

Group rides at 150-200k sound ripe for hefty tickets to me, I can extract enough enjoyment from taking corners with a bit of vigor and enjoying how awesome just being out riding is. But then i'm AGATT which makes me a more safety bias than a lot of riders around I spose.

[The Pastor]

I

Group rides at 150-200k sound ripe for hefty tickets to me, I can extract enough enjoyment from taking corners with a bit of vigor and enjoying how awesome just being out riding is. But then i'm AGATT which makes me a more safety bias than a lot of riders around I spose.


cops cant get you at that speed

[The Pastor]

It's just him being an idiot. He typed those things.

a brilliant idea lol

[Ixion]

It's just him being an idiot. He typed those things.

I figured it after a while. I like that gentleman, a man after my own heart.

[The Pastor]

when i get my bike back, im going to speed

[Ixion]

Speed kills. This I know, for the government tells me so.

[scumdog]

when i get my bike back, im going to speed

"When..yadda-yadda-yadda..."

Mwahahahaha.......:killingme

[Duc]

when i get my bike back, im going to speed

Sad and pathetic. You are delusional, you are dangerous and you are a high risk to yourself and others... (and you are unbelievable)

Get therapy ASAP

In the approx 12000 kms I ride every year on my bike(s) ... I (and my riding mates) have never (ever) seen rider groups travelling at the speeds ( 180kms +) that some have suggested they do in this ridiculous poll.
Just where (exactly) do you idiots do this ?

[The Pastor]

Speed kills. This I know, for the government tells me so.

little speeders to them belong, they are fast but he is slow?

[The Pastor]

Sad and pathetic. You are delusional, you are dangerous and you are a high risk to yourself and others... (and you are unbelievable)

Get therapy ASAP

In the approx 12000 kms I ride every year on my bike(s) ... I (and my riding mates) have never (ever) seen rider groups travelling at the speeds ( 180kms +) that some have suggested they do in this ridiculous poll.
Just where (exactly) do you idiots do this ?

How about you DEAL WITH IT. I speed, you die.

As for the rides of speed, check out the kb calander, or the ATNR. (but in saying this its gotten waaaay better than it used to be)._

[Duc]

How about you DEAL WITH IT. I speed, you die.

...

You are too stupid to even be considered worthy of more response.

[Ixion]

Sad and pathetic. You are delusional, you are dangerous and you are a high risk to yourself and others... (and you are unbelievable)

Get therapy ASAP

In the approx 12000 kms I ride every year on my bike(s) ... I (and my riding mates) have never (ever) seen rider groups travelling at the speeds ( 180kms +) that some have suggested they do in this ridiculous poll.
Just where (exactly) do you idiots do this ?

I seen it. And all I will say is that Buell's is hard but Rocket 3's it's not even worth bothering to try on straight bits

[avgas]

An acceptable speed on a public road is 15% slower than the marked speed.
Anything slower than this is not acceptable.

[MarkH]

I chose up to 20kph over the limit on the poll because I can't afford to lose my license and I don't like paying fines. At 20 over (or less) the fines aren't so expensive and the demerit points aren't so high, but most of the time I try to keep to under 20kph over the speed limit on my speedo which mostly has me within 10kph over in real speed (verified by GPS). So my answer is within 20kph due to legal reasons, not safety or anything else.

If it weren't for the legal speed limits then my answer would be a bit different. If motorcycles weren't restricted by the legal speed limit and it was up to us to decide what speed to travel then I would have done some things differently. For a start I wouldn't have purchased a 400cc scooter, I would have spent the same $6500 on something a bit quicker. I was reluctant to buy a quick bike because I doubted my ability to keep my license if I bought a GSX-R. If I didn't have to worry about the legal limit then I would have chosen the 80+ option - but I would choose carefully where & when to travel at that sort of speed. I suppose I would ride 120-140kph quite a lot and faster than that only where I feel safe to do so - if only I didn't need to fear loss of license. :(

[3umph]

I have not voted as the poll is pretty fucked up really... how can you make such a blanket poll that suits all roads, conditions etc...

some time the speed limit is to dangerious for the conditions then other time you can do 2x the speed limit no problem...

I usually ride to the conditions and within my ability... I also usually ride to a point I can always stop within the road that i can see but then when going round blind corners its really just chance even at the posted limit if you can stop in time if there is something blocking the way where you can not see...

Say someone was traveling at 180kph, thats 3km per minute or 50m per second so if a sheep ran on the road 100m ahead of you thats 2 seconds to impact ... would you have the time to react?? or would target fixation take over??? or just hit at full speed and have lamb chops freshly diced and chopped...
at least at 120kph, 2km per minute or 33m per second you get about about another second to react which well could be having an impact or not...

But how many people really think about that??? fuck all....

Don't get me wrong... I love speed and I do sit above the limit most of the time but you have to pick your time, place and conditions to do it... the other factor is where are the cops, above 40kph above and you are walking for awhile... When I ride I do not really look at the speedo unless in a buildup area... I ride to whats comfortable at the time so it thats 20km over the limit them thats it... if its 80km over then thats it... in built up areas I am usually close to the limit

I ride alone or with a friend a lot because I dont like riding in big groups of riders I am not sure about or they dont know how I ride... going to the Vincent last year was a prime example I came close to rear ending one of the ones I was riding with due to him braking for easy corners when doing 100kph but the corners could be taken well over that... I soon passed as did my brother inlaw and we cruised along at a steady pace...

At the end its not speed that kills... its the sudden impacts that are hightened by extra speed that make it more likley to not have a good outcome...
but hey any one reading this could get run over by a bus tomorrow so live life to the fullist

[The Pastor]

I have not voted as the poll is pretty fucked up really... how can you make such a blanket poll that suits all roads, conditions etc...

some time the speed limit is to dangerious for the conditions then other time you can do 2x the speed limit no problem...

I usually ride to the conditions and within my ability... I also usually ride to a point I can always stop within the road that i can see but then when going round blind corners its really just chance even at the posted limit if you can stop in time if there is something blocking the way where you can not see...

Say someone was traveling at 180kph, thats 3km per minute or 50m per second so if a sheep ran on the road 100m ahead of you thats 2 seconds to impact ... would you have the time to react?? or would target fixation take over??? or just hit at full speed and have lamb chops freshly diced and chopped...
at least at 120kph, 2km per minute or 33m per second you get about about another second to react which well could be having an impact or not...

But how many people really think about that??? fuck all....

Don't get me wrong... I love speed and I do sit above the limit most of the time but you have to pick your time, place and conditions to do it... the other factor is where are the cops, above 40kph above and you are walking for awhile... When I ride I do not really look at the speedo unless in a buildup area... I ride to whats comfortable at the time so it thats 20km over the limit them thats it... if its 80km over then thats it... in built up areas I am usually close to the limit

I ride alone or with a friend a lot because I dont like riding in big groups of riders I am not sure about or they dont know how I ride... going to the Vincent last year was a prime example I came close to rear ending one of the ones I was riding with due to him braking for easy corners when doing 100kph but the corners could be taken well over that... I soon passed as did my brother inlaw and we cruised along at a steady pace...

At the end its not speed that kills... its the sudden impacts that are hightened by extra speed that make it more likley to not have a good outcome...
but hey any one reading this could get run over by a bus tomorrow so live life to the fullist

kinda covering all bases there in ur answer, without really saying much

[3umph]

and your point is???... the first line is the main point...

[avgas]

Correct me if I am wrong but if you think above 20kph is acceptable - and someone roars past you at 40kph faster than you - does that not make you a hypocrite?
While speed doesn't kill on its own - neither does a gun or a knife. It needs circumstance and someone to wield it to make it kill.
I think the speed limit +10 is acceptable, 10-80 is reasonable, 80-200 is asking for trouble.
But then again that does give me the ability to cry about some idiot who passes me at 250+kph. But I suppose I should look forward for the bike coming up as a cheap streetfighter project while they put the previous rider in a box.

[BoristheBiter]

Why are some people putting down verified by GPS?
All the gps units i have, and there are a few, are not that accurite with speed as they can have up to a 2 sec lag and calcuate speed by time over distance so have trouble when there is a change in elevation.
the only way i have known to check the speedo is an allready defined distance to check your odometer against.

[MarkH]

Why are some people putting down verified by GPS?

Because without any noticable elevation change if you hold a steady speed for a few second you will have a VERY accurate reading of speed from the GPS. If under those circumstances your speedo reads 120kph and the GPS is holding steady at 108kph then it becomes clear that you need to knock 10% off the speedo reading to have actual speed. Some of us are smart enough to figure out that the GPS readings aren't bang on when going up and down hills or while accelerating or braking.

[BoristheBiter]

Because without any noticable elevation change if you hold a steady speed for a few second you will have a VERY accurate reading of speed from the GPS. If under those circumstances your speedo reads 120kph and the GPS is holding steady at 108kph then it becomes clear that you need to knock 10% off the speedo reading to have actual speed. Some of us are smart enough to figure out that the GPS readings aren't bang on when going up and down hills or while accelerating or braking.

Just can't say I've seen a gps the accurate (other than the big sat-nav units).

[red mermaid]

GPS is not accurate because it measures distance, +/- 100 metres, therefore at one point it could be anything up to 199 metres wrong.

[MarkH]

GPS is not accurate because it measures distance, +/- 100 metres, therefore at one point it could be anything up to 199 metres wrong.

I'm guessing that you have never used a GPS. They can give a location much more accurately then to the nearest 100m and I have NEVER seen mine anywhere near 199 metres wrong. In fact mine is seldom out by more than a few metres - I would say that it is accurate to within 10 metres most of the time. Mine is also fairly consistant - it isn't out in one direction by a few metres one second and out by a few metres in the opposite direction the next second. It seems pretty darn accurate to me - it consistantly gives a speed reading that ties in with what the speedo reads -10%. I have tested the GPS in a friends car and found that it matched his speedo within 1 or 2 kph - he thinks that would be correct as his speedo matches the speed that the police claim he is doing.

I have used the GPS on my cell phone with a google maps overlay - according to the gps I was right by the corner of the house that my bedroom is on - which matches with reality within a few metres. I have been able to get a reasonable reading of speed while walking that seems to easily be within 1kph of the speed I would have to be moving to cover the distance I cover in the time I cover it.

My experience is this: GPS speed readings are VERY accurate when travelling at a costant speed if there is no major elevation changes. Maybe in theory they can't be guaranteed to be that accurate, but in practise they work out to be bang on!

[MarkH]

bugger - double tap, move along, nothing to see here!

[Brett]

How long is a piece of string?

[Berries]

An acceptable length.

[Toaster]

There is a time, place and circumstances for everything. Police know this but what they do with that principle of "common sense applied" is up to them.

Acceptable speed? Ask a judge or JP at the defended hearing. It's enshrined in law whether we like it or not. I personally would love to see some roads with higher limits, but I doubt the 100km/h limit will change any time soon, even on the dual carriage highways.

[MarkH]

I personally would love to see some roads with higher limits, but I doubt the 100km/h limit will change any time soon, even on the dual carriage highways.

The speed limit is set for safe driving by the worst drivers in the worst conditions. If a road is busy for an hour or 2 a couple of times every weekday then it gets a limit suitable for those busy times, that limit applies 24/7.

[Toaster]

Following the latter part of that logic means the speed limit on the Auckland motorway is..... 10kmh?

[MarkH]

Following the latter part of that logic means the speed limit on the Auckland motorway is..... 10kmh?

Don't say that! If they hear that idea it will probably become the new limit.

[Horney1]

BS - Going slow increases your risk of falling asleep and being too late to react to a "situation". The faster you go, the more aware you are, the more your on edge you are, the faster you will react, the more feel you have for the road (no not that feel), traction, control mechanisms etc ( & I'm not implying that one must ride everywhere on 10 10ths or even 7 10ths) . Speed does not kill nearly as much as idiots. I'd be happy cruising at 200 and max'ing at the max but it's illegal. Speed does depend on situation, bike, traffic (including group rides & relative abilities/ experience), mood, weather, health & filth but it does not mean that posted speed limits a the safest speed you can go. Sometimes slower than the posted limit is safer by far, generally faster or much faster is just as safe. People and the law are fixated on a numbers, I would rather ride at my speed and ban speedos (the ones that tell you the speed, not the weather :).

I was going to read the whole thread before posting, but by the time I got to #48 I couldn't help myself...

[red mermaid]

The reports I have read from Dr Phillipa Gander, probably the best expert in the world on fatigue, would dispute this.



BS - Going slow increases your risk of falling asleep and being too late to react to a "situation". The faster you go, the more aware you are, the more your on edge you are, the faster you will react, the more feel you have for the road (no not that feel), traction, control mechanisms etc ( & I'm not implying that one must ride everywhere on 10 10ths or even 7 10ths) . Speed does not kill nearly as much as idiots. I'd be happy cruising at 200 and max'ing at the max but it's illegal. Speed does depend on situation, bike, traffic (including group rides & relative abilities/ experience), mood, weather, health & filth but it does not mean that posted speed limits a the safest speed you can go. Sometimes slower than the posted limit is safer by far, generally faster or much faster is just as safe. People and the law are fixated on a numbers, I would rather ride at my speed and ban speedos (the ones that tell you the speed, not the weather :).

I was going to read the whole thread before posting, but by the time I got to #48 I couldn't help myself...

[shrub]

BS - Going slow increases your risk of falling asleep and being too late to react to a "situation". The faster you go, the more aware you are, the more your on edge you are, the faster you will react, the more feel you have for the road (no not that feel), traction, control mechanisms etc ( & I'm not implying that one must ride everywhere on 10 10ths or even 7 10ths) . Speed does not kill nearly as much as idiots. I'd be happy cruising at 200 and max'ing at the max but it's illegal. Speed does depend on situation, bike, traffic (including group rides & relative abilities/ experience), mood, weather, health & filth but it does not mean that posted speed limits a the safest speed you can go. Sometimes slower than the posted limit is safer by far, generally faster or much faster is just as safe. People and the law are fixated on a numbers, I would rather ride at my speed and ban speedos (the ones that tell you the speed, not the weather :).

I was going to read the whole thread before posting, but by the time I got to #48 I couldn't help myself...

You're right. I agree that the open road speed is often mind numbingly dull and easy to zone out - another reason driver inattention is a leading cause of accidents, but there is definitely such a thing as too fast. My rule is "Can I stop or take evasive action in the road i can see?", and if I can't; then I slow down. Dragging knees through corners is all good, but you can't do a lot about shingle, potholes or sheep in campervans on the wrong side of the road at that speed.

This sound silly, but I find posted speeds on corners a hindrance because my subconcious tells me that this corner has a correct speed, and asks if I am doing it, whereas an unposted corner I read the corner and set my speed on what I see, not a sign. if that makes sense.

[shrub]

The reports I have read from Dr Phillipa Gander, probably the best expert in the world on fatigue, would dispute this.

I don't think he's talking about actually falling asleep. That is caused by a lot of factors, and speed has little if any impact on tiredness - personally I see a tired driver as being as much a risk as a drunk driver. I believe Horney is talking about zoning out, something that is very easy to do on smooth roads at 100 kmh.

The speed limit is rigorously policed because speed is easy to measure and speed limits are easy to enforce. Why do your noble colleagues not police poor driving skills or inattention? Because it's too hard, that's why.

[T.W.R]

but I find posted speeds on corners a hindrance because my subconcious tells me that this corner has a correct speed.

Posted speeds on corners are suggested safe cornering speeds....not an enforcable speed limit. They're designed to accomodate all road users & varying types of vehicles


I don't think he's talking about actually falling asleep.

Falling asleep is the final stage of fatigue.....there's plenty of more hazardous stages prior to that :yes:

[road king]

up to 5 km/h over the posted limit is the 'acceptable' speed

about 95% of the time i ride at 90-104km/h

if im on a group ride, i will match the pace of the group unless on a main hi-way, then its back to 90-104km/h

[scumdog]

BS - Going slow increases your risk of falling asleep and being too late to react to a "situation". The faster you go, the more aware you are, the more your on edge you are, the faster you will react, the more feel you have for the road (no not that feel), traction, control mechanisms etc .

...and best of all with the faster speed?- the more exciting it is when you plough into a hitherto unseen object on the road!:woohoo:

[The Pastor]

...and best of all with the faster speed?- the more exciting it is when you plough into a hitherto unseen object on the road!:woohoo:

redline to the dealine, don't you know?

[The Pastor]

...and best of all with the faster speed?- the more exciting it is when you plough into a hitherto unseen object on the road!:woohoo:

redline to the dealine, don't you know?

[peasea]

...and best of all with the faster speed?- the more exciting it is when you plough into a hitherto unseen object on the road!:woohoo:

Such as this???

[Love my Bonnie]

I need to change my vote coz Mr plod told me yesterday that 127ks is not the answer to "What is an acceptable speed on a public road?"

[Ixion]

...and best of all with the faster speed?- the more exciting it is when you plough into a hitherto unseen object on the road!:woohoo:

As opposed to plowing into said unseen object (why unseen?) at a mere 100kph, which as we all know is totally safe. :yawn:. Nobody has ever been injured coming off at 100kph, right?

[scumdog]

Such as this???

Sheesh, if ya couldn't spot that lot you should be checking in for your guide dog and white cane eh!

[FJRider]

BS - Going slow increases your risk of falling asleep and being too late to react to a "situation". The faster you go, the more aware you are, the more your on edge you are, the faster you will react,

I'd be happy cruising at 200 and max'ing at the max but it's illegal. Speed does depend on situation, bike, traffic (including group rides & relative abilities/ experience), mood, weather, health & filth but it does not mean that posted speed limits a the safest speed you can go.



I recall reading about reaction times of formula one drivers ... around .25-.35 of a second. With reaction times of around .4 .5 of a second about average/good. This means that on a good day ... at 120 km/hr, you will cover around 33 metres Before you actually start the process of reacting to the situation. Be it braking or "mere" avoidence of the problem that has appeared.

Which means that anything that appears that is closer than 50 metres you will hit AT that speed ... before you react at all. How long will it take YOU to stop from 200 km/hr ... UNDER 50 metres would be GOOD. Which rule of thumb means ... that at 200 km/hr ... anything ahead of you out to 100 metres ... you have a GOOD chance of hitting (and ONLY if that object is NOT moving towards you).

Do you believe YOUR reaction times are as good as a formula one driver ... ???

[trailblazer]

i ride a around the 110kph mark as i don't have the skills to go to fast and my bike wasn't designed for high speed.

[blue eyed savage]

funny i talk to people that say that do 120ish and then out on the rides thay do at least 160. i say its what every u want. but 130 is good for a long trip but thats just me. if ur not happy with that go slower. 200+ is i bit fast for me just wish i had a track and could go fast all the time. 140 and u have to run from the cops and i dont want to be doing that, but i can see how it happends passing a truck on a zx10r.

[peasea]

Sheesh, if ya couldn't spot that lot you should be checking in for your guide dog and white cane eh!

It's called sarcasm.

[Horney1]

I recall reading about reaction times of formula one drivers ... around .25-.35 of a second. With reaction times of around .4 .5 of a second about average/good. This means that on a good day ... at 120 km/hr, you will cover around 33 metres Before you actually start the process of reacting to the situation. Be it braking or "mere" avoidence of the problem that has appeared.

Which means that anything that appears that is closer than 50 metres you will hit AT that speed ... before you react at all. How long will it take YOU to stop from 200 km/hr ... UNDER 50 metres would be GOOD. Which rule of thumb means ... that at 200 km/hr ... anything ahead of you out to 100 metres ... you have a GOOD chance of hitting (and ONLY if that object is NOT moving towards you).

Do you believe YOUR reaction times are as good as a formula one driver ... ???


-----------------

Firstly - I've run over enough possums and wallabies etc and had to emergency brake over blind crests for flocks of sheep, packs of dogs and had enough cars pull in front of me etc etc etc etc. I've got a fairly good understanding of how situations can happen. I know that with riding at any speed one must include various precautions dependant on a multitude of circumstances. I also know that with increased speed the bike & myself carry increased momentum (all the better to cut through fast small animals easier) ;) & yes, it means slower to come to a stop and that if I was going slower for those wallabies that appear out of nowhere and the wallaby was going a bit faster I would still hit it (with less momentum). These small animals don't really worry me too much any more and old people take longer to get to the middle of the road. (i.e. you run the risk of hitting them if you go too slow).

Well IF you ARE correct in YOUR assumptions I must be BETTER than average. I seem to recall the last time I did a stop watch test I was at 0.12 or 0.14 sec with 0.17 sec worst. Now I guess that nerve signal must go from my hand (start the stopwatch) to my brain and back to my hand (stop stopwatch), so maybe you could halve that for a one way signal. :) How does a formula one driver measure his/ her reaction time? The only difference between me and a formula one driver is the rich and supportive parents (they also have facility to go a wee bit faster and haven't seen as many years as I have). ARE YOU one of those driver/ riders that seem to take forever to react to something when I've already seen it, taken evasive action and spent the rest of the time before you react waiting to see what you do?

As for the 50m / 100m thing, I refer you to Scumdogs guide dog comment. I tend to look further ahead the faster I go but, yes as I mentioned above I have hit some wallabies out of nowhere on dark nights, on curves and luckily not put the bike down (I guess the rotational speed of the wheel and the increase gyroscopic effect helped me there). At 70km/hr I hit a wallaby that came out from a bush on the edge of a 4x4 track (I managed to stay upright but it was a heavier hit than others). If I was going faster I would not have hit that one. People must learn that sh*t happens, it doesn't matter what you may or may not be doing. So, this hypothetical object is it moving perpendicular to my trajectory or static? I've already deviated enough from topic and I'm not going to get into a braking debate but I guess track braking markers give an indication of what's possible. Yes, I can brake quite well. Do you have to actually stop, zero km/hr? Stopping is not always the only option. If it's a vehicle coming towards you on the wrong side it doesn't really matter what you do it is likely you're stuffed anyway. That's a good reason to have near horizontal highway verges and no cheese cutters.

Do your calculations take into account the possiblity of evasive routes or the time it would take an object to get from a hidden point into your trajectory (& stop)? Then there's also the matter of, if you're going fast enough you're probably past the object before it gets into your trajectory anyway. Oh oh, what about the variable of seeing a situation changing and adapting your reaction (very quickly). Here's negative one, reacting quickly and making the wrong decision... Maybe we should all just get that cotton wool out?

Travel how you feel comfortable, look well ahead (oh, and also look beside you if you're going slowly. NB - those sideways low speed falls really hurt!), anticipate and try to give yourself a margin of error.

I'll stick with my thoughts of an ideal world where I could do 200 (no, not knee scraping!) if I wanted to without threat of legal action. Back on topic - what is an acceptable speed on a public road? Ever since the politicians made laws saying so it's been 100km/hr on the open roads. Not saying I agree with it but that's what we're stuck with.

Referring to my slow/ sleep comment, yes, I meant people can get into a dazed/ mesmerised states on boring &/or straight roads. I guess in that state their muscles are also more relaxed with less blood in them giving a weaker & maybe less accurate reaction?? Obviously reactions would be terrible in that state.


(On something completely different, what's the go with this "quick reply" editor constantly refreshing and moving from where I'm editing?)

[FJRider]

-----------------

Travel how you feel comfortable, look well ahead (oh, and also look beside you if you're going slowly. NB - those sideways low speed falls really hurt!), anticipate and try to give yourself a margin of error.



Going by the length of your post ... you have given some thought as to validity of my post.

I also hope there are others that believe their confidence, in their own abilitys ... is VALID.

And I hope a few others get thinking about it too ...

[scumdog]

It's called sarcasm.

Noooooooo..........?;)

[_Shrek_]

Sure sure, you just realised it's a public poll more likely.

no i knew, just didn't read it right, but in the mid to late 80's I would have put 50 + over thats how i rode back then, now i sit at 110, 115 & if i need to over take...

I do how ever do up to 200 on the metal, up in the hills but only for short distance's :laugh: as you tend to run out of options pretty quick

[peasea]

Noooooooo..........?;)

Sounds odd I know, a spot of sarcasm from the TOTS. (That's the Top Of The South, not the little people.)

Are you going to tassle-up and head to the HOG nat's?

[scumdog]

no i knew, just didn't read it right, but in the mid to late 80's I would have put 50 + over thats how i rode back then, now i sit at 110, 115 & if i need to over take...

I do how ever do up to 200 on the metal, up in the hills but only for short distance's :laugh: as you tend to run out of options pretty quick

Gotta admit that in early/mid 70's I sat at about 80mph most of the time, never even got stopped.

Mind you, there were only about three cars, a motorbike and a truck in the whole south island back then!:rofl:

[_Shrek_]

Gotta admit that in early/mid 70's I sat at about 80mph most of the time, never even got stopped.

Mind you, there were only about three cars, a motorbike and a truck in the whole south island back then!:rofl:

:laugh: i never got any tickets back then either, i don't think there were enough :Police: back then to work outside town limits :rolleyes: but have had 4 in the last 5 years,

[TerminalAddict]

... at 120 km/hr, you will cover around 33 metres Before you actually start the process of reacting to the situation. Be it braking or "mere" avoidence of the problem that has appeared.

I recall skidmark posting he could stop from 200 kph in 2 metres

[FJRider]

I recall skidmark posting he could stop from 200 kph in 2 metres

But only if the ROCK WALL was 2 metres away ... :lol:

[FJRider]

:laugh: i never got any tickets back then either, i don't think there were enough :Police: back then to work outside town limits :rolleyes: but have had 4 in the last 5 years,

You've had 4 cops ... or 4 tickets ... ??? :eek:

[cheshirecat]

Many years ago I took a motocycle advanced course run by some UK Police Bikes. We were grouped into about five with a police bike front and rear. The ground rules were to stay within the law but to ride assertively. When they said within the law they meant it. The centerline of the tyre wasn't to cross the yellow line meaning the centerline of the tyre could touch but not cross to within a fraction of an inch. This at 70mph through sweeping bends. This was real precision riding learning very quickly to take pride in our roadcraft and precise interpretations of the law. It was also great being escorted by blue flashing lights overtaking traffic.
I'm still utilising this course today and it provided the foundtions to being able to survive three years of despatch riding in London when several of my fellow riders didn't. I believe the philosophy was that one might survive the odd blast occaisionally( and we've all done the odd blast, being human after all) but one day you'll be caught out

[cheshirecat]

Many years ago I took a motocycle advanced course run by some UK Police Bikes. We were grouped into about five with a police bike front and rear. The ground rules were to stay within the law but to ride assertively. When they said within the law they meant it. The centerline of the tyre wasn't to cross the yellow line meaning the centerline of the tyre could touch but not cross to within a fraction of an inch. This at 70mph through sweeping bends. This was real precision riding learning very quickly to take pride in our roadcraft and precise interpretations of the law. It was also great being escorted by blue flashing lights overtaking traffic.
I'm still utilising this course today and it provided the foundtions to being able to survive three years of despatch riding in London when several of my fellow riders didn't. I believe the philosophy was that one might survive the odd blast occaisionally( and we've all done the odd blast, being human after all) but one day you'll be caught out

[kiwifruit]

Back once again with the ill behavior

[_Shrek_]

You've had 4 cops ... or 4 tickets ... ??? :eek:

:blip: wouldn't you like to know

[racefactory]

It doesn't matter, there is no point exceeding the speed limit on a straight... don't tell me that's actually fun or rewarding? It's the corners that count and if you can get around those pulling some good G and not breaking the speed limit then that's all you need for fun.

Go to lonely track road on the north shore and if you break the 70kmh speed limit significantly around those corners then I'll give you a medal. My favourite place for a short spirited ride.

[The Pastor]

It doesn't matter, there is no point exceeding the speed limit on a straight... don't tell me that's actually fun or rewarding? It's the corners that count and if you can get around those pulling some good G and not breaking the speed limit then that's all you need for fun.

Go to lonely track road on the north shore and if you break the 70kmh speed limit significantly around those corners then I'll give you a medal. My favourite place for a short spirited ride.

that road is really busy and dangerous place to speed.

[racefactory]

that road is really busy and dangerous place to speed.

It's not speeding, it's staying within the 70kmh speed limit. It's also not busy at all... rarely come across a car there on a weekday. Must be thinking of another road? I did mean mainly Wright rd but Lonely track just turns into it.

[The Pastor]

speeding has NOTHING to do with the little sign on the side of the road. you try stoping mid corner at 60ks when a cyclist / suv or kid suddlenly apperares, and then i'll give you the medal.

[BoristheBiter]

speeding has NOTHING to do with the little sign on the side of the road. you try stoping mid corner at 60ks when a cyclist / suv or kid suddlenly apperares, and then i'll give you the medal.

I will take that medal but I will settle for a clean pair of undies.
Mid blind corner looking at the front of a land cruiser. still have no idea how he didn't hit me.
45 on the corner, 70 on the clock would have meant nothing if i became a hood ornament

[BoristheBiter]

It's not speeding, it's staying within the 70kmh speed limit. It's also not busy at all... rarely come across a car there on a weekday. Must be thinking of another road? I did mean mainly Wright rd but Lonely track just turns into it.

I would say that going down Wright road should be part of any bike training.

[Horney1]

I will take that medal.... .
Mid blind corner looking at the front of a land cruiser. still have no idea how he didn't hit me.
45 on the corner, 70 on the clock would have meant nothing if i became a hood ornament

Yep, been there, done that to. Was going legal on a sealed highway (after getting pulled over for a ticket) & had to squeeze past an oversteering landcruiser on a bridge. He (she) had taken a sweeping right dip a bit fast. So, if I was going faster I wouldn't have encountered that one and I would have been on the bridge for less time... (NB - stopping or slowing down would have invited a higher possibility of being where they were going!)

[Ixion]

It's not speeding, it's staying within the 70kmh speed limit. It's also not busy at all... rarely come across a car there on a weekday. Must be thinking of another road? I did mean mainly Wright rd but Lonely track just turns into it.

Now, this post and its predecessor very nicely encapsulate why we have such a high biker road toll.

The single most common cause of fatalities and serious injuries on motorcycles, is a single vehicle crash, where the motorcycle leaves the road on a corner.

Here, we have the poster condemning those who exceed the speed limit in a straight line, whilst advocating riding as fast as possible through corners, on a road known to be treacherous.

He suppoorts the safety of this on the basis that it is not exceeding the speed limit.

So, for him (and it is an idea shared by many), to ride at a speed that is in excess of an arbitrary limit, yet far below the maximum speed possible, is dangerous.

Whereas , to ride at a speed that is less than that arbitrary limit, but deliberately to seek to be right on the edge of the maximum speed possible, is safe. Because "it's less than the speed limit"

The problem is, of course, that a rider riding on the raw edge of maximum possible speed, will sooner or later, go just that little bit *over* the edge. He is *at* the limit. It only needs a misjudgement of a couple of kph. And then we have another statistic.

While the rider riding at 120kph on the straight road probably ahs a spare 100kph in hand before he gets into trouble.

I have a question for all those who cry that "exceeding the speed limit is dangerous". Do you also obey the speed signs on corners? Those yellow ones. Because if you genuinely believe that exceeding an officially recommended speed is inherently dangerous- well, those yellow signs are officially recommended maximum safe speeds also.

The speed on the yellow sign is the maximum that officials believe safe on that corner. If you exceed that speed you are (by your argument) riding dangerously.

[FJRider]

The speed on the yellow sign is the maximum that officials believe safe on that corner. If you exceed that speed you are (by your argument) riding dangerously.

I have noted on a few occasion when some have posted about their bin on a corner, a corner they state they have taken at speeds in excess of that they were travelling at the time (of their bin). It only takes a bit of grit/gravel, an oil/diesel patch, or smooth seal ... and its all over rover ...

After a few "white knuckle moments" on various rides ... I have gone back and had a look at the piece of road this occured, sometimes just a shoddy patch-seal job is the cause.

In short ... even posted warning signs are a guide ... sometimes ... in some conditions/times ... still unsafe.

If you believe it's safe because a sign tells you its safe ... good luck ...

[Mikkel]

I recall reading about reaction times of formula one drivers ... around .25-.35 of a second. With reaction times of around .4 .5 of a second about average/good. This means that on a good day ... at 120 km/hr, you will cover around 33 metres Before you actually start the process of reacting to the situation. Be it braking or "mere" avoidence of the problem that has appeared.

v = 120 km/h = 33.3 m/s

dx = v*dt <=> dx = 33.3 m/s * 0.5 s = 16.7 s


Which means that anything that appears that is closer than 50 metres you will hit AT that speed ... before you react at all. How long will it take YOU to stop from 200 km/hr ... UNDER 50 metres would be GOOD. Which rule of thumb means ... that at 200 km/hr ... anything ahead of you out to 100 metres ... you have a GOOD chance of hitting (and ONLY if that object is NOT moving towards you).

v0 = 200 km/h = 55.6 m/s
v1 = 0 km/h = 0 m/s
dx = 50 m

a = (v1^2 - v0^2)/(2*dx) = - (55.6 m/s)^2/(2 * 50 m) = -30.9 m/s^2 = - 3.2 g

I.e. stopping from 200 km/h in 50 m isn't just GOOD, it takes some really really sticky tyres. (That's me being sarcastic - it's not going to happen by friction braking dependent upon the earth's gravitational pull.)

Stopping distances from 200 km/h fall into the category:

a < 1 g = 9.8 m/^2

dx = (v1^2-v0^2)/(2*a) <=> dx > 157.7 m

I.e. expect to spend more than 157.7 meters if you want to stop from 200 km/h.

NB - this of course doesn't take aero-braking into account.

[FJRider]

I.e. stopping from 200 km/h in 50 m isn't just GOOD, it takes some really really sticky tyres. (That's me being sarcastic - it's not going to happen by friction braking dependent upon the earth's gravitational pull.)

Stopping distances from 200 km/h fall into the category:

a < 1 g = 9.8 m/^2

dx = (v1^2-v0^2)/(2*a) <=> dx > 157.7 m

I.e. expect to spend more than 157.7 meters if you want to stop from 200 km/h.



I was being a "tad" optimistic .... but the aim of my post was to get some on site ... doing their sums on the subject of braking distances. IT WORKED ...

Distance markers (from corners) on race circuits were mentioned as a guide in another post ... but seldom to race tracks require complete stops on each(any) corner ...

Factor in another vehicle travelling towards you at 100 km/hr ... then do the sums ...

If you are moving at 200 km/hr ... a lot of clear road is required to stop ... safely.

Changing your line to avoid a moving object that you cannot predict direction of its travel (car ... sheep etc) is at best .. not always a good option ... at that speed.

[MarkH]

He suppoorts the safety of this on the basis that it is not exceeding the speed limit.

Isn't that correct? Because the ads against speeding on TV would suggest that exceeding the speed limit = willing to commit murder. The impression that I get is obeying the limit is more important than common sense or life itself. Surely the ads wouldn't lie to me! :cry: