Does "L" really = Loser

[Str8 Jacket]

This is just a general rant, and maybe im wrong..... BUT why is that the last couple of times I have been riding home from work while waiting at the traffic lights I have been "hassled" by some older grey hair dude (2 different guy's each time). Ok so hassled may not be the right word. But annoyed is definatey how I felt.
I am aware that the rather large bright yellow "L" plate does pretty much give it away, Im a learner!!
I was at the traffic lights yesterday, so im just sitting there minding my own business and then all of a sudden some old dude pulls up on his BMW something .... and tells me "back there you should have given way to that pedestrian"(even though I was already over the crossing before anyone walked up to it) then he proceeded to tell me that I needed to go a bit faster to keep up with traffic, even though I was riding at 50 the whole way up the road and there was no other traffic on the road to hold up!
THEN yesterday I was sitting a different set of lights when this grumpy older grey/white haired dude pulls up next to me and proceeds to tell me how to look after my bike, that I should be checking the brakes, lights etc everytime I take the bike out. To this I simply replied, "would you fuck of, im trying to concentrate" - Traffic was heavy. He didnt get the hint and started telling me how to clean my bike - What a dick! :mad:

[placidfemme]

Seems they were just trying to help...

You should move to Auckland then they just shout "LOSER" and bugger off lol

How much longer do you have on your "L" plate?

[Motu]

As a grey haired old fella i'd have to agree that your bikes a bit dirty - but you'll have to shout because I'm a bit hard of hearing....

Don't worry - telling other people what to do is our job,it's genetic....you'll understand in 50 yrs or so.....

[Pwalo]

This is just a general rant, and maybe im wrong..... BUT why is that the last couple of times I have been riding home from work while waiting at the traffic lights I have been "hassled" by some older grey hair dude (2 different guy's each time). Ok so hassled may not be the right word. But annoyed is definatey how I felt.
I am aware that the rather large bright yellow "L" plate does pretty much give it away, Im a learner!!
I was at the traffic lights yesterday, so im just sitting there minding my own business and then all of a sudden some old dude pulls up on his BMW something .... and tells me "back there you should have given way to that pedestrian"(even though I was already over the crossing before anyone walked up to it) then he proceeded to tell me that I needed to go a bit faster to keep up with traffic, even though I was riding at 50 the whole way up the road and there was no other traffic on the road to hold up!
THEN yesterday I was sitting a different set of lights when this grumpy older grey/white haired dude pulls up next to me and proceeds to tell me how to look after my bike, that I should be checking the brakes, lights etc everytime I take the bike out. To this I simply replied, "would you fuck of, im trying to concentrate" - Traffic was heavy. He didnt get the hint and started telling me how to clean my bike - What a dick! :mad:

Don't take it personally. He probably thought he was being helpful. At least he was paying attention rather than the dozy middle aged women who undertook me while we were merging at the bottom of Nguaranga Gorge yesterday evening.

[Str8 Jacket]

As a grey haired old fella i'd have to agree that your bikes a bit dirty - but you'll have to shout because I'm a bit hard of hearing....

Don't worry - telling other people what to do is our job,it's genetic....you'll understand in 50 yrs or so.....

lol!!

Yea, im probably being a bit OTT, last week I had a couple of (older guy's) give me a few tips while out riding through town, that I dont mind, especially since they were nice about it. I think I may have just taken offence to the other two guy's tone of voice and the fact that they both thought it necessary to basically try sitting on my bike while "explaining" what they thought I needed to know . . . Honestly I could smell the latter guy's breathe, and it wasn't nice!

[Motu]

I hope you aren't a target....but there are some things that only happen twice in a lifetime,and it always seems they happen in the same week!

[parsley]

Hit back - next time you're at the lights and and old guy in a BMW pulls alongside you, start telling him how to wash his car! :ride:

[zadok]

Don't take it personally. He probably thought he was being helpful.
My thoughts exactly.

[unhingedlizard]

I had someone tell me once i was ruining the enviroment.
I really thought hard about that one as i filled his 4x4 with blue smoke.

[Str8 Jacket]

Before anyone else gets me wrong, what I was meaning was having an L plate definately makes you stick out, the guy's stopping to "help" me seemed to have proved that . . . I am definately greatful for all the advice I can get!! I was just starting to feel like a target - as Motu pointed out. I have literally been riding my bike for 4 day's and have been "helped" 2 day's outta those whilst sitting at the lights?!?! I think im developing a complex . . . .

[justsomeguy]

...... having an L plate definately makes you stick out.....

.....I was just starting to feel like a target - . . . .

1. Get up to a level where you are confident on your bike i.e -You can stay upright and not stall or botch up every gear change and stall everytime you stop......you're probably way past that stage by now :niceone:

2. Take the bullseye off the back of your bike......save for the ten minutes it takes to do your restricted..

Well thats what I did anyway.. kept the Loser plate on for about a week till I got used to the lack of steering wheel and seat belts and then just chucked it......(into a drawer)

Cops wont stop you unless you do something stupid.... and all the extra attention that the yellow neon sign attracts is just not worth it.....

I guess those guys also take one look at you and think -- hmm a woman, what does she know ...I better tell her how it's REALLY done.... :tugger:

[Str8 Jacket]

1. Get up to a level where you are confident on your bike i.e -You can stay upright and not stall or botch up every gear change and stall everytime you stop......you're probably way past that stage by now :niceone:

2. Take the bullseye off the back of your bike......save for the ten minutes it takes to do your restricted..

Well thats what I did anyway.. kept the Loser plate on for about a week till I got used to the lack of steering wheel and seat belts and then just chucked it......(into a drawer)

Cops wont stop you unless you do something stupid.... and all the extra attention that the yellow neon sign attracts is just not worth it.....

I guess those guys also take one look at you and think -- hmm a woman, what does she know ...I better tell her how it's REALLY done.... :tugger:

*sigh* If only it was that easy!! I have my learners for another 4 months before I can get my restricted.
Also my job does not allow me to have fines come to court - I work for MOJ. Basically if I get pulled over and don't have my L plate I cannot afford the $400 fine so it would inevitabley (sp) come to court and then im left with no job and fines I cant pay :no: Believe me Im no goody-good but at the end of the day id rather avoid this happening!

[Str8 Jacket]

I guess those guys also take one look at you and think -- hmm a woman, what does she know ...I better tell her how it's REALLY done.... :tugger:


Hmm, I was kinda thinking that!! :rofl:

[crashe]

If you do decide to take the "L" plate sign off your bike..
Dont chuck it into the drawer... Keep it with you at all times when riding.

Snap the "L" plate off your bike.. so that a tiny yellow bit is still there (a corner of it under the screw holding it on) then if you can depending upon your type of bike, put it under your seat. Or keep it in your backpack that you always carry.

Reason: If you get stopped by the nice police officer, then all you say is that when you came out of where ever you have just come from, like 10 minutes ago, that you found it on the ground as some twat had snapped it off. You will attach it back on when you get home.
The nice police officer should be ok about that.

But always have it with you...... if you don't carry it with you, then you are up for a heavy fine.

Oh and take care out there on the roads...
:ride: :ride: :ride: :ride:

[justsomeguy]

If you do decide to take the "L" plate sign off your bike..
Dont chuck it into the drawer... Keep it with you at all times when riding.

Snap the "L" plate off your bike.. so that a tiny yellow bit is still there (a corner of it under the screw holding it on) then if you can depending upon your type of bike, put it under your seat. Or keep it in your backpack that you always carry.

Reason: If you get stopped by the nice police officer, then all you say is that when you came out of where ever you have just come from, like 10 minutes ago, that you found it on the ground as some twat had snapped it off. You will attach it back on when you get home.
The nice police officer should be ok about that.

But always have it with you...... if you don't carry it with you, then you are up for a heavy fine.

Oh and take care out there on the roads...
:ride: :ride: :ride: :ride:

Yes, Crashe makes a great point. Don't put it in your drawer......

Be careful how you "snap" your L-Plate if that's what you do - the buggers have a nasty habit of splitting into two equal halves....

[Str8 Jacket]

If you do decide to take the "L" plate sign off your bike..
Dont chuck it into the drawer... Keep it with you at all times when riding.

Snap the "L" plate off your bike.. so that a tiny yellow bit is still there (a corner of it under the screw holding it on) then if you can depending upon your type of bike, put it under your seat. Or keep it in your backpack that you always carry.



Saweet cheers for that, that I can do! :yes: Why did I not think of that before :weird: Though it may confuse that poor old dude at the lights next time he see's me?! :devil2:

JSG - Cheers for that too, maybe if i kinda cut/melt it slightly before snaping it off? Do you think that'd work?

[Beemer]

I guess those guys also take one look at you and think -- hmm a woman, what does she know ...I better tell her how it's REALLY done.... :tugger:

You don't have to be on a bike for this to happen... I've been a professional photographer for many years and yet when I go to take a photo I invariably get some guy - always a guy! - tell me how I should be taking the shot! I feel like turning around and saying "and I should be taking YOUR advice because why? Oh, you are an accountant? Of course, I bow to your superior knowledge of photography, I only get PAID to take photos." :whistle:

Pretend you are deaf, or do what I have always done - tell them you are fine, but thanks for the advice anyway!

[crashe]

Saweet cheers for that, that I can do! :yes: Why did I not think of that before :weird: Though it may confuse that poor old dude at the lights next time he see's me?! :devil2:

JSG - Cheers for that too, maybe if i kinda cut/melt it slightly before snaping it off? Do you think that'd work?

Do NOT attempt to melt or cut it first....
The nice police officer will notice that.

HOLD it right up near the screw/bolt and snap it off.

You will be left with a smallish piece still around the screw..
but car drivers etc wont be able to tell its from the "L" plate sign.

[Str8 Jacket]

Do NOT attempt to melt or cut it first....
The nice police officer will notice that.

HOLD it right up near the screw/bolt and snap it off.



Well I gues i'll just be snapping it of, lol! Im actually thinking of going and doing it at lunchtime, however it would just be my luck that someone would call the Police......

[crashe]

Lean right over your bike as thou you are fixing something on the bike so that no one can see what you are doing lol. :rofl:

[James Deuce]

There's nothing worse than somebody who gives a shit, is there?

Is it any wonder I'm going off this site?

Daren't show ANY concern for anyone, lest you get humiliated in a public forum.

List of things KBers can't do:

1. Drive a car.
2. Hint that a car may be more useful sometimes.
3. Show concern for a newbie who may be putting themselves in danger without knowing it.
4. Dare to suggest that you may be responsible for your own "bins".

and now:

5. Proffer a possibly learned opinion from the window of a car.

[Str8 Jacket]

There's nothing worse than somebody who gives a shit, is there?

Is it any wonder I'm going off this site?

Daren't show ANY concern for anyone, lest you get humiliated in a public forum.

List of things KBers can't do:

1. Drive a car.
2. Hint that a car may be more useful sometimes.
3. Show concern for a newbie who may be putting themselves in danger without knowing it.
4. Dare to suggest that you may be responsible for your own "bins".

and now:

5. Proffer a possibly learned opinion from the window of a car.

If this is a dig at me mate, that's sweet. Sorry you feel that way. HOWEVER try putting yourself in my shoes, I have literally been on the road for 4 day's and it seems that everytime i go out riding someone has something to tell me. That's great, BUT try being in rush hour traffic at the lights putting all your concentration into just getting it right and not stalling etc . . THEN some helpful Charlie pulls up right next to you so his bike is practically touching mine and he starts gruffly telling me how to maintain my bike, while practically kissing me. I am at the fucking lights RIDING not cleaning my bike. Tell me how I am not supposed to find this off-putting to my riding?!!

[Pwalo]

There's nothing worse than somebody who gives a shit, is there?

Is it any wonder I'm going off this site?

Daren't show ANY concern for anyone, lest you get humiliated in a public forum.

List of things KBers can't do:

1. Drive a car.
2. Hint that a car may be more useful sometimes.
3. Show concern for a newbie who may be putting themselves in danger without knowing it.
4. Dare to suggest that you may be responsible for your own "bins".



and now:

5. Proffer a possibly learned opinion from the window of a car.


Well said mate.

I think we all seem to be a wee bit 'precious' at the moment. Lighten up a bit, and cut others a bit of slack. At the end of the day riding a bike doesn't make us any better than anyone else on the roads.

[James Deuce]

If this is a dig at me mate, that's sweet. Sorry you feel that way. HOWEVER try putting yourself in my shoes, I have literally been on the road for 4 day's and it seems that everytime i go out riding someone has something to tell me. That's great, BUT try being in rush hour traffic at the lights putting all your concentration into just getting it right and not stalling etc . . THEN some helpful Charlie pulls up right next to you so his bike is practically touching mine and he starts gruffly telling me how to maintain my bike, while practically kissing me. I am at the fucking lights RIDING not cleaning my bike. Tell me how I am not supposed to find this off-putting to my riding?!!

Sigh. It's not a dig at you. Well one point was.

If you you want to survive as a motorcyclist your BEST skill is learning what advice is crap and what isn't, and not wasting any time or sleep on getting advice you don't believe you need or want. People WILL offer a lot of advice. Get over it.

I'm just a bit tired of the thoroughly negative attitude to what is ostensibly a "good" act on the part of an anonymous "Joe Public". Is it not nice to think that people care enough to want you to actually survive the motorcycle experience?

[Str8 Jacket]

Sigh. It's not a dig at you. Well one point was.

If you you want to survive as a motorcyclist your BEST skill is learning what advice is crap and what isn't, and not wasting any time or sleep on getting advice you don't believe you need or want. People WILL offer a lot of advice. Get over it.

I'm just a bit tired of the thoroughly negative attitude to what is ostensibly a "good" act on the part of an anonymous "Joe Public". Is it not nice to think that people care enough to want you to actually survive the motorcycle experience?

Fair enuf, I understand what you are saying. However, the point I was trying to make here was havng a L plate makes you stand out, you could be riding like you've never ridden a bike before but if you didn't have an L plate I highly doubt that anyone would feel the need to "help" I have greatfully taken advice from another rider when I was out on my first ride. I am NOT one to disregard anyones advice and am actually very greatful for it. At the end of the day there is a time and a place! Nuf said. :ride:

[James Deuce]

Fair enuf, I understand what you are saying. However, the point I was trying to make here was havng a L plate makes you stand out. Nuf said. :ride:

It's supposed to. For what it's worth I don't agree with the rationale behind L plates or the speed restriction for newbies.

However I now know NOT to offer advice should we ever end up on a ride together.

[mikey]

you loser l plate wearing losere you

dont put it on.

[Str8 Jacket]

you loser l plate wearing losere you

dont put it on.

:motu: Cheers for that Mikey! :rofl:

[justsomeguy]

Hey Jim I like cars, always have always will. I like bikes too....

Around a track I like both equally. In rush hour traffic I prefer a bike....

Do keep up the advice giving mate - what YOU have to say actually does help others.

Str8Jacket must feel rather weird having so much attention thrown her way in such a short period of time, I am sure she was just venting.

Please do not leave KB - we need fellas like you here.

Otherwise the WINJA's and co will take over and then the rest of us will have to leave too......

[Str8 Jacket]

Str8Jacket must feel rather weird having so much attention thrown her way in such a short period of time, I am sure she was just venting.

Please do not leave KB - we need fellas like you here.




WOOHOO!! Someone who actually gets my point!!

[justsomeguy]

It's supposed to. For what it's worth I don't agree with the rationale behind L plates or the speed restriction for newbies.

However I now know NOT to offer advice should we ever end up on a ride together.

Come on.... the speed restriction is to stop people going on the motorway and stick to back country roads with a max speed limit of 70. It is a good thing. The fact that people want to ride on the motorways at 70 with everyone else doing 115 is their choice.

The L-plate is supposed to let people know you are a novice and hence give you more room. It is a pity that a few people tend to abuse that fact and take advantage of someone who may not be able to adequately "fight back".

[crashe]

Come on.... the speed restriction is to stop people going on the motorway and stick to back country roads with a max speed limit of 70. It is a good thing. The fact that people want to ride on the motorways at 70 with everyone else doing 115 is their choice.

The L-plate is supposed to let people know you are a novice and hence give you more room. It is a pity that a few people tend to abuse that fact and take advantage of someone who may not be able to adequately "fight back".


Mate the fact that car drivers on a "L" plate can go at 100km on the motorway and m/bikes riders on "L" plates can only go 70km.

Now that sux's....

It should be the same for all car drivers and bike riders on "L" plates.
They should ALL be able to go 100km on the motorways etc.

"L" m/bike riders are on 250cc and under is ok by me.

[Ixion]

Come on.... the speed restriction is to stop people going on the motorway and stick to back country roads with a max speed limit of 70. It is a good thing. The fact that people want to ride on the motorways at 70 with everyone else doing 115 is their choice.

The L-plate is supposed to let people know you are a novice and hence give you more room. It is a pity that a few people tend to abuse that fact and take advantage of someone who may not be able to adequately "fight back".

Not so. The history behiond it indicates that the reason for the restriction was to "encourage" people to move on to the restricted licence. The 70kph restriction, and the L plate are , in effect, the only difference between the L and R classes.The grey men in Wellington believed that if they did not provide some "incentive" , people would just remain on the L class. They were not willing to allow derestrcited capacity on the R class (of course not ). So they had to restrict the L class further, somehow. Hence the 70kph limit.

If they wanted to exclude L riders from motorways, they would simply have made that a condition of the licence.

[justsomeguy]

Mate the fact that car drivers on a "L" plate can go at 100km on the motorway and m/bikes riders on "L" plates can only go 70km.

Now that sux's....

It should be the same for all car drivers and bike riders on "L" plates.
They should ALL be able to go 100km on the motorways etc.

"L" m/bike riders are on 250cc and under is ok by me.

Yeah but 100kms in a car when it goes pear shaped is a lot better than 100kms on a bike when it goes pear shaped.

Also more than 80% of all the learner car drivers in NZ can't afford a car as fast as a 250 bike that 80% of L-plate bike riders can... the figures are a guess from my 8 years on the road.....

The 70 K law is to STOP L-Plate bikes going on the motorways.

Many children would have grown up being driven on a motorway and would have been a passenger in a car being exposed to what it feels like being on the motorway while their parents/friends etc are driving. They may have even received a lot of feedback (ok sonny now I'm going to take the next exit - can you make sure it is all clear on your left, etc, etc) on the conditions around them as they were being driven down the motorway from these friends and relatives.

However comparatively very few people would have been a pillion on a bike on the motorway and even then wouldn't have been able to see or note what the rider they are with was looking at or doing.

Hence the logic behind preventing L-Plate riders from going on the motorway for 6 months - so that they can come to grips with the dynamics of being on two wheels. However if they have to then they are restricted to a speed where a lower amount of reflexes are required.

EDIT: OH YEAH - AND THE BIG ONE - L-PLATE CAR DRIVERS ALWAYS HAVE AN EXPERIENCED DRIVER WITH THEM

[Biff]

I love the banter and advice that comes with biking - granted the grey brigade tend not to offer me advice these days, probably because they think I know it all. But I don't. Anyone that claims to know everything there is to know about biking is sooooo very wrong. A biking is all about learning - be it related to road sense, road positioning, defensive riding or hazard perception. But wrinklies offering their views on life the universe and everything while at traffic lights is probably not the best time. Next time simply say, " Yeah I know that, Mr Tickle told me. Would you like to see my unusual birth mark". I find this tends to ward people off.

[justsomeguy]

Not so. The history behiond it indicates that the reason for the restriction was to "encourage" people to move on to the restricted licence. The 70kph restriction, and the L plate are , in effect, the only difference between the L and R classes.The grey men in Wellington believed that if they did not provide some "incentive" , people would just remain on the L class. They were not willing to allow derestrcited capacity on the R class (of course not ). So they had to restrict the L class further, somehow. Hence the 70kph limit.

If they wanted to exclude L riders from motorways, they would simply have made that a condition of the licence.

I see, I stand corrected then. :yes:

I always felt- I am really just speaking from my gut - not using facts here - that the purpose was not to completely restrict people but sort of strongly dissuade them from venturing out at open road speeds.

[justsomeguy]

Would you like to see my unusual birth mark

Where's the pic??

:p

[Zed]

This is just a general rant, and maybe im wrong...I am aware that the rather large bright yellow "L" plate does pretty much give it away, Im a learner!!Lol, if you weren't doing anything wrong as you say, then just ignore such advice-giving turkeys...:wacko:

And no, "L" doesn't mean loser, it means [L]ook out for me! :scooter:

[Str8 Jacket]

Next time simply say, " Yeah I know that, Mr Tickle told me. Would you like to see my unusual birth mark". I find this tends to ward people off.

:rofl: It's funny you should say that . . . :devil2:

[justsomeguy]

Lol, if you weren't doing anything wrong as you say, then just ignore such advice-giving turkeys...:wacko:



:Oi: so I'm a turkey now huh?? :banana: Is that a promotion from grasshopper??

......Says the guy riding the big black turkey (say have you thought what sort of bird your bike is -- hehehehehehe:wacko:)

[crashe]

Yeah but 100kms in a car when it goes pear shaped is a lot better than 100kms on a bike when it goes pear shaped.

Also more than 80% of all the learner car drivers in NZ can't afford a car as fast as a 250 bike that 80% of L-plate bike riders can... the figures are a guess from my 8 years on the road.....

The 70 K law is to STOP L-Plate bikes going on the motorways.

Hence the logic behind preventing L-Plate riders from going on the motorway for 6 months - so that they can come to grips with the dynamics of being on two wheels. However if they have to then they are restricted to a speed where a lower amount of reflexes are required.

Mate there are so many young people on a "L" plate car license that are really speeding out there.... they can afford the TURBO cars....
Some can afford to put in huge big radios and speakers that cost one hell of a lot more than the average 250cc m/bike.
They also do up crappy honda civic's and mazda's into these drag cars....
Now that also costs big money to do that...

I truely believe if you have a "L" plate then all should be able to go 100km.
If the rider doesnt feel comfortable to do 100km on the motorway thats ok... cos you are allowed to do 70km....

Some riders need time to build up that speed. Which is why they stick to the suberbs for a while til they feel confident in their riding skills.

I am not sure what is the slowest legal speed limit on the motorway...
Where is Spud or Bykeycop when ya need them.

[Str8 Jacket]

And no, "L" doesn't mean loser, it means [L]ook out for me! :scooter:

lol!! It's funny how I used to always call "L" platers Losers . . . now I am one . . . :yes:

In all honesty I have no issues with the L plate, yes it does warn people that im not quite up to skill yet. But I never realised how much one did actually get noticed till I had one attached to my arse! It is actually quite off-putting sometimes!

[Ixion]

..
I am not sure what is the slowest legal speed limit on the motorway...
Where is Spud or Bykeycop when ya need them.

There's a big debate going on in another thread. Some say it is 40 kph. But no-one's been able to cite the legislation. (Assuming you don't unreasonably inpede other drivers etc)

(Apropos, I very very very vaguely remember that when the first motorway in Auckland was opened, it had a 25 mph signpost on it ??? Anyone else remember 25mph signposts on the mootorway ? 25mph = 40kph )

[Zed]

:Oi: so I'm a turkey now huh?? :banana: Is that a promotion from grasshopper??

......Says the guy riding the big black turkey (say have you thought what sort of bird your bike is -- hehehehehehe:wacko:)I was referring to the two turkeys who gave him advice from their car windows, not you...but if the shoe fits?
My bike is the 'Bird, but apparently it gets eaten for breakfast by the 'Busa bird!! :doh:

[madboy]

Advice is a dangerous game to get into. I remember receiving a PM from a member who has posted in this thread complimenting me on my bike (the previous one) and also on my lane-splitting as I went past them on the way to work that morning, confessing that they didn't like doing that. I responded by basically telling them to harden up and the lane-splitting will come with confidence.

Little did I know until actually having a decent chat with said biker some months later that they'd actually been riding for many many years, done some racing and didn't get into the lane-splitting game cos they were too sensible, unlike young(er) nutters like me!! Time to remove foot from mouth.

Sympathise with you on the receiving advice bit though, it's all good when they're giving advice you want to hear, but it can get a bit tiresome when people attempt to inflict their views of life the universe and everything on you. Hell, if everyone took my advice, learners would start on 600s with no numberplates and bad attitudes, stand-up wheelies would be tought on the CBTA Full course, and 1000cc sportsbikes would be compulsory for full licenses. Unfortunately that may result in a severe depletion of living and able riders.

[justsomeguy]

My bike is the 'Bird, but apparently it gets eaten for breakfast by the 'Busa bird!! :doh:

Well it so happens that we do have a Busa here (was with us on Sunday)- can we find out who eats who one day??

*drools in anticipation*

[oldrider]

All my life Ive been hearing how nobody sees us. (Sorry Officer etc)
The amount of attention you seem to be getting "everybody sees you".
Where can I get an "L" plate?
I would rather listen to their dumb comments than wear their stupid cages.
Ignore them and just enjoy your bike.
People can only bother you if "you" let them.
Oh no just another old advise giver. :no: Sorry Pal. Cheers John :whistle:

[Str8 Jacket]

Oh no just another old advise giver. :no: Sorry Pal. Cheers John :whistle:

Once and for all, I HAVE NO PROBLEMS WITH ADVICE BEEN GIVEN TO ME!! In fact I am actually very pleased to get it. I am a learner and I accept that people want to help me, its great that they do!! My problem is the way in which this particular person "gave" me their advice, it put me of what I was doing and flustered me to the point that I almost took of in the wrong lane cause he was still talking to me as the lights changed. And just to make it clear, I would feel the same way if a younger male or female did the same thing.
This thread was a chance for me to vent plain and simple.

[Ixion]

Once and for all, I HAVE NO PROBLEMS WITH ADVICE BEEN GIVEN TO ME!! In fact I am actually very pleased to get it. I am a learner and I accept that people want to help me, its great that they do!! My problem is the way in which this particular person "gave" me their advice, it put me of what I was doing and flustered me to the point that I almost took of in the wrong lane cause he was still talking to me as the lights changed. And just to make it clear, I would feel the same way if a younger male or female did the same thing.
This thread was a chance for me to vent plain and simple.

Ah, you need to cultivate a secret trick , hitherto known only to married men (NO! NOT *THAT* ONE. Sheesh, you people have *grubby* minds) .

Mrs Ixion frequently gives me advice. In fact she gives me advice all the time. I'm sure it is very good advice, too. But , y'see, the thing is, I never hear it. All married men learn this trick. It's a sort of auto advice bypass, in left ear, bypass brain, out right ear.

Don't know whether it's possible for a chick to acquire the knack or not. No field research on the subject, because no married man has ever been foolhardy enough to try to give his wife advice. Or, at any rate, any who did have not survived the experience.

Actually, that's sort of semi serious. Just ignore the whole thing, nod your head, go "uh-huh" and ride off.

[oldrider]

I was just referring to the fact you are "being seen". Lucky you.
Then I thought oh oh sounds like another preacher. Settle down.
They didn't have this system when I started, 50yrs ago .
(Dont know how they measure the value of it)
We don't ever stop being learners, you won't always have to wear a plate.
Cheers John. :ride:

[Str8 Jacket]

I was just referring to the fact you are "being seen". Lucky you.

Cheers John. :ride:

Hehe, yea that bit actually actually made me laugh!! I wasn't taking any offence to what you said either btw. Just wanted to clarify why I actually started this thread.....
Just last week on my first ride into town I was riding down Courtaney Place, having issues with using my clutch properly and this (dare I say it) guy stopped next to me and gave me advice on how to use the clutch more effectively. I put his advice into practice and since then I haven't stalled once and can now actually change gears (up and down) smoothly. So advice is always welcome, just so long as it is relevant and not in my right in my face to the point of bordering on intimadation. Yesterday the guy's breathe (as previously mentioned) was foul and he almost rode over my left foot in the process - that's how close he got!

[Eurygnomes]

Hey Str8!!! You must be pulling up for too long at the lights - I roar off as soon as possible! :) No, seriously though, I haven't encountered this, but that might be because my L-plate *ahem* must've been snapped off and I'm on my way home to put it back on!

What was the advice given on the clutch by the way? And has anyone got advice for accidentally stopping in neutral on the way to 2nd? I think I must not be giving my gear lever enough kick upwards...and it always happens when I'm trying ot look cool too! :) (that's a joke, I can't possibly look cool in all the clobber I wear!).

[Smorg]

Well it so happens that we do have a Busa here (was with us on Sunday)- can we find out who eats who one day??

*drools in anticipation*


Ive seen zxr600's outridden by a guy who knew his 250 inside out...............in the end its not the bike its the rider, but speaking in straight lines my money's on the busa as much as i love the bird :ride:

[hondacmx450]

i got my licence back the other day and i went for a ride on my mates bike (l plate on it)and a dick in a car was telling me how to ride i said year you know a lot f off
he said get a real bike latter on that day i saw him on mine and stopped and said so now how should i ride my street fighter he said nothing
you ride how you ride if you ant doing anything wrong then cool stuff the dicks out there

[Jeremy]

Mate the fact that car drivers on a "L" plate can go at 100km on the motorway and m/bikes riders on "L" plates can only go 70km.

Now that sux's....

It should be the same for all car drivers and bike riders on "L" plates.
They should ALL be able to go 100km on the motorways etc.

"L" m/bike riders are on 250cc and under is ok by me.

Do not tempt them to make changes to the motorcycle legislation. Instead see if you can get learner car drivers to be restricted to 70km/h.


Hey Str8!!! You must be pulling up for too long at the lights - I roar off as soon as possible! :) No, seriously though, I haven't encountered this, but that might be because my L-plate *ahem* must've been snapped off and I'm on my way home to put it back on!

What was the advice given on the clutch by the way? And has anyone got advice for accidentally stopping in neutral on the way to 2nd? I think I must not be giving my gear lever enough kick upwards...and it always happens when I'm trying ot look cool too! :) (that's a joke, I can't possibly look cool in all the clobber I wear!).

Solution: Switch straight to second in the first place.
Other solution, rev first and hold the revs above 4.5k and it won't goto neutral nearly as easily so you can pretty much guarantee to hit second.


Finally to Str8 Jacket: Begging my pardon here but were you sticking out like a sore thumb? Stalling at lights, indicator always on, etc. Most importantly were you wearing full gear? Also you say that someone managed to pull upside of you in a car nearly running over your foot, where were you in your lane for that to happen?

I find it a little odd that two different people talked to you within 4 days, though I have a feeling here it is it solely because you're female.

[NordieBoy]

However I now know NOT to offer advice should we ever end up on a ride together.

Depends what your breath is like :D

[NordieBoy]

Also you say that someone managed to pull upside of you in a car nearly running over your foot, where were you in your lane for that to happen?

What car?

"pulls up on his BMW something"
"next to you so his bike is practically touching mine"

BMW make bikes you know.

Have for some years now.

[N4CR]

I always thaught it signified 'Lane splitter'.. well for me anyway.

I don't find people doing that to me cus they all think its a 400~600 etc etc and its too noisy to talk over anyway :devil2: And the L plate is angled weird so you need to be close to see it too.

I take advice and weight it up with other advice. If there is a conflict I simply use common sense to make the best decision or a combination of both.

[parsley]

The 70 K law is to STOP L-Plate bikes going on the motorways.
But it doesn't. Why not just ban L-plates from the motorway? That's how it works in the UK. The 70 kph law doesn't keep you off the motorway, but it makes you mighty uncomfortable once you're there!

[James Deuce]

Come on.... the speed restriction is to stop people going on the motorway and stick to back country roads with a max speed limit of 70. It is a good thing. The fact that people want to ride on the motorways at 70 with everyone else doing 115 is their choice.

The L-plate is supposed to let people know you are a novice and hence give you more room. It is a pity that a few people tend to abuse that fact and take advantage of someone who may not be able to adequately "fight back".

As pointed out there is no legal restriction preventing a learner from riding on the motorway.

The L plate does nothing except set you up as a target for either criticism or hostility from people who have never, ever been informed that there is a 70 km/hr limit for motorcyclists on their learners permits.

City traffic with it's greater number of intersections, and oncoming traffic with no dividing barrier or median strip is a great deal more dangerous than a motorway for a learner. Learning to mentally filter relative motion and detect threats consciously and sub consciously and flow with the traffic whilst maintaining a buffer is arguably easier at 100km/hr, with all the traffic around you moving in the same direction and moving at speed differentials of no more than 10%.

I personally think that the 70km/hr law exposes learners to a great deal of unecessary danger, and as you point out compels them to travel via more dangerous, not less dangerous routes. Then when they do hit the open road at 70km/hr on a congested main highway, they either ride to the left and encourage the less "able-minded" drivers to overtake them within their lane, or potentially precipitate a head on collision with oncoming traffic if they maintain their lane position.

Mind you this is all just my opinion, and we're all well aware of what that's worth.

[James Deuce]

Depends what your breath is like :D

As vile as my advice.

[Ixion]

As pointed out there is no legal restriction preventing a learner from riding on the motorway.

The L plate does nothing except set you up as a target for either criticism or hostility from people who have never, ever been informed that there is a 70 km/hr limit for motorcyclists on their learners permits.

City traffic with it's greater number of intersections, and oncoming traffic with no dividing barrier or median strip is a great deal more dangerous than a motorway for a learner. Learning to mentally filter relative motion and detect threats consciously and sub consciously and flow with the traffic whilst maintaining a buffer is arguably easier at 100km/hr, with all the traffic around you moving in the same direction and moving at speed differentials of no more than 10%.

I personally think that the 70km/hr law exposes learners to a great deal of unecessary danger, and as you point out compels them to travel via more dangerous, not less dangerous routes. Then when they do hit the open road at 70km/hr on a congested main highway, they either ride to the left and encourage the less "able-minded" drivers to overtake them within their lane, or potentially precipitate a head on collision with oncoming traffic if they maintain their lane position.

Mind you this is all just my opinion, and we're all well aware of what that's worth.


FWIW, I agree with Mr Jim2. The 70kph limit serves no useful purpose, and causes those obeying it to expose themselves to unnecessary hazard.

If it were thought desireable that beginners should not venture onto "derestricted" roads, then the law should have said exactly that.

And the L plate, in Dorkland at any rate, simply marks the learner out as a target for abuse or smart alec attitudes. It is interesting that the Road code does not anywhere indicate anything that other motorists should do when encountering a L plate driver/rider.

If the intention was that it would indicate to other motorists that the bearer should be afforded some tolerance, then the Road Code should have said so, and the law should impose penalty for drivers who harrass a learner.



JMHO.

[scumdog]

"L" is a badge of hounor, anybody that 'disses' you has a short memory, be proud that you've started your journey of motorcycling.

I would NEVER knock anybody for having an "L" plate on their bike - nor ticket them for breaching the terms of their "L" status. (unless they were in a cage).

[Ixion]

"L" is a badge of hounor, anybody that 'disses' you has a short memory, be proud that you've started your journey of motorcycling.

I would NEVER knock anybody for having an "L" plate on their bike - nor ticket them for breaching the terms of their "L" status. (unless they were in a cage).

Admirable sentiments . And hopefully it would never be bikers belittleing those with L plates (and the period required before younger riders can "move up" is so long that some L-platers may be very good riders indeed)

Arrogant young punks in cages are unfortunately, another matter.

[Zed]

"L" is a badge of hounor, anybody that 'disses' you has a short memory, be proud that you've started your journey of motorcycling.Lol, badge of honour, hehe...more like a badge of horror! However, I do have respect for those who 'wear' the badge as it shows they have a respect for the law, it also shows how much of a noooob they really are! :bleh:

[Coyote]

"L" is a badge of hounor, anybody that 'disses' you has a short memory, be proud that you've started your journey of motorcycling.

I would NEVER knock anybody for having an "L" plate on their bike - nor ticket them for breaching the terms of their "L" status. (unless they were in a cage).
I for one would rather ditch the L plate than wear it with pride

[SixPackBack]

This is just a general rant, and maybe im wrong..... BUT why is that the last couple of times I have been riding home from work while waiting at the traffic lights I have been "hassled" by some older grey hair dude (2 different guy's each time). Ok so hassled may not be the right word. But annoyed is definatey how I felt.
I am aware that the rather large bright yellow "L" plate does pretty much give it away, Im a learner!!
I was at the traffic lights yesterday, so im just sitting there minding my own business and then all of a sudden some old dude pulls up on his BMW something .... and tells me "back there you should have given way to that pedestrian"(even though I was already over the crossing before anyone walked up to it) then he proceeded to tell me that I needed to go a bit faster to keep up with traffic, even though I was riding at 50 the whole way up the road and there was no other traffic on the road to hold up!
THEN yesterday I was sitting a different set of lights when this grumpy older grey/white haired dude pulls up next to me and proceeds to tell me how to look after my bike, that I should be checking the brakes, lights etc everytime I take the bike out. To this I simply replied, "would you fuck of, im trying to concentrate" - Traffic was heavy. He didnt get the hint and started telling me how to clean my bike - What a dick! :mad:

Got abit of sand in your crack sweety.......chill......just ignore them and forget about it

[scumdog]

I for one would rather ditch the L plate than wear it with pride

All you sorry arsed 12 year olds are SO easily impressed!!

Who the eff CARES if you have to wear an "L" plate?? Big Deal!! - not.

[Wellyman]

Wankers in there BMW's. they all think they are all bloddy kings of the roads.
oops i shouldn't be sayin that when my dad owns a beemer.
WM

[justsomeguy]

Ive seen zxr600's outridden by a guy who knew his 250 inside out...............in the end its not the bike its the rider, but speaking in straight lines my money's on the busa as much as i love the bird :ride:

Very true.:yes:

I've seen litre bikes outridden by a guy on a 150 and a dirt bike....
However in this case I know the bird rider can clock the bike with comfort and yeah even take a few corners while he's at it.

[Coyote]

All you sorry arsed 12 year olds are SO easily impressed!!

Who the eff CARES if you have to wear an "L" plate?? Big Deal!! - not.
You think it's all about image? Nooooo way. If I was worried about that, I would have 'Von Dutch' plastered on the side of my bike. I just don't like staying at 70k all the time and don't want to get ticketed 400 bucks if I break that silly law

[justsomeguy]

FWIW, I agree with Mr Jim2. The 70kph limit serves no useful purpose, and causes those obeying it to expose themselves to unnecessary hazard.

I was only trying to speculate (wild guess) what whoever designed the law may have been thinking, having said that I agree that your statements are more akin to the truth than my ramblings.

.......and the 70 limit is pretty much another myth.....just like our 50 zones....

I honestly don't know anyone who's ever followed it.....

Matter of fact I know a few L-Platers who been trying hard to reach 170.....

[justsomeguy]

You think it's all about image? Nooooo way. If I was worried about that, I would have 'Von Dutch' plastered on the side of my bike. I just don't like staying at 70k all the time and don't want to get ticketed 400 bucks if I break that silly law

Yeah 70k in a 50 K zone is dangerous...... :p (p/t p/t p/t:weird: )

[danb]

If you do decide to take the "L" plate sign off your bike..
Dont chuck it into the drawer... Keep it with you at all times when riding.

Snap the "L" plate off your bike.. so that a tiny yellow bit is still there (a corner of it under the screw holding it on) then if you can depending upon your type of bike, put it under your seat. Or keep it in your backpack that you always carry.

Reason: If you get stopped by the nice police officer, then all you say is that when you came out of where ever you have just come from, like 10 minutes ago, that you found it on the ground as some twat had snapped it off. You will attach it back on when you get home.
The nice police officer should be ok about that.

But always have it with you...... if you don't carry it with you, then you are up for a heavy fine.

Oh and take care out there on the roads...
:ride: :ride: :ride: :ride:


I just hope the cops don’t already know this as an old trick. I still have my one on but come of the day when I get my restricted. Less than a month to go I think :yes:

[danb]

I was only trying to speculate (wild guess) what whoever designed the law may have been thinking, having said that I agree that your statements are more akin to the truth than my ramblings.

.......and the 70 limit is pretty much another myth.....just like our 50 zones....

I honestly don't know anyone who's ever followed it.....

Matter of fact I know a few L-Platers who been trying hard to reach 170.....

None of the rides I have done, have i kept to the learner speed limit and I dont know of anyone who has.

[scumdog]

You think it's all about image? Nooooo way. If I was worried about that, I would have 'Von Dutch' plastered on the side of my bike. I just don't like staying at 70k all the time and don't want to get ticketed 400 bucks if I break that silly law

Have "Von Dutch" on the side of your scoot if you want!!. (Know what Von Dutch is about? - I bet not!)

I didn't use to like having to crawl before I could walk - but that's life eh?

(Somethings you do wrong in life cost you you're life - not just $400!!!)

[oldrider]

Hi str8 jacket, told you yesterday they didn't have L plates when I started riding back in the 1950's. Talking to my oldest brother last night and he reminded me that they did and I used to get into all kinds of shit over it. Must have Eltszymers now. Stupid laws have always been put in place to appease the stupid voters who usually have nothing to do with the activity. Just enjoy your bike and don't worry about what you can't change. If you can make the bike move you'r as good as the next guy. Go for it. Cheers John.

[mikey]

Yeah 70k in a 50 K zone is dangerous...... :p (p/t p/t p/t:weird: )


no it fucking isnt uyou dork. stupid fucking idoit. fucks sake. stupid fucking dumb arse,

[justsomeguy]

no it fucking isnt uyou dork. stupid fucking idoit. fucks sake. stupid fucking dumb arse,

Grow up son :niceone:

[NordieBoy]

Have "Von Dutch" on the side of your scoot if you want!!. (Know what Von Dutch is about? - I bet not!)

A pin-striped CBR250?
Hmmmm....