Wonder why motorbikes drive fast?
Finishing my house-move week so popped
out for a quick run on my CBF600. A note for motorists.
Ever wonder or scorn at the motorbikes
that fly off at the lights and jump ahead of the traffic? What are
they up to? What are they trying to prove? Are they just assholes?
Well, here is why.
They want to live.
Tonight I had two cars try to mow me
down by deciding to change lanes after pulling off at the lights. I
just happened to be in the lane they wanted to wander into. On both
occasions I beeped and accelerate to get away from the muppet. As
a novice biker I am now the guy that pulls away quickly just so I can stay
away from cars.
null Said,
November 1, 2009 @ 12:50 pm
had an interesting debate with two policemen recently (purely academic) about going straight on in a right only Lane at red lights.
One thought that it was always integral whereas one thought that it was of if you did a quite mental risk assessment first and foot into account the type of vehicle to your left-if a large van it was ok but if it was a sports car it would be deemed as dangerous driving
Sean Cull Said,
November 1, 2009 @ 1:54 pm
damned tablet PC
integral = illegal
Sean
Andy Pedisich Said,
November 1, 2009 @ 7:54 pm
When I ride, I follow the philosophy of Yossarian from Catch 22. Here is a conversation between Yossarian and optimist Clevinger about the situation.
“They’re trying to kill me,” Yossarian told him calmly.
“No one’s trying to kill you,” Clevinger cried.
“Then why are they shooting at me?” Yossarian asked.
“They’re shooting at everyone,” Clevinger answered. “They’re trying to kill everyone.”
Yossarian answers, “And what difference does that make?”
Sean Cull Said,
November 1, 2009 @ 8:26 pm
Paul, can you delete my previous cryptic posts – neither my brain nor the tablet pc were working !
The point I was trying to make was that there are also times when it can be useful to consider using the “right only” lane at red lights to go straight on and move into a clear space.
It is a contentious idea – in discussion with two traffic police men one thought it was always illegal whereas the other said that if you had done a mental risk assessment and thought it was safe then it was fine as a demonstration of an advanced riding technique.
The risk assessment goes along the lines of – slow vehicle ( lorry, van, a vehicle previously observed to be slow and cautious ) at the head of the queue means you can get away safely. A sports car means you cant. Anything in between means don’t try
Sean Murphy Said,
November 2, 2009 @ 12:01 pm
Paul,
One of the first things I did to my bike was install new horns – a twin set of trumpets! Much better than a ‘beep, beep’! Especially gratifying when their window is open and you time it just right…
Todd Carpenter Said,
November 2, 2009 @ 5:25 pm
After 3 months of motorcycle ownership, I complete understand the “jack-rabbit starts” as they are called here in the US. Last weekend the wifey and I were attacked twice within 10 minutes in Fort Lauderdale, once by a speedracer in a Mini almost flatten us from a errant lane change and the other was from behind when a woman slammed on her brakes to avoid us (obviously she didn’t see my 750 Lbs motorcycle sitting at the red light).
Basically the majority of what they teach in the motorcycle driving classes here is vehicular avoidance. You really have to have your head on a swivel in order to not get plowed.
Devin Olson Said,
November 2, 2009 @ 7:33 pm
I’ve owned/ridden many different “street” motorcycles over the years:
- BSA Super Rocket II
- Honda CB750K
- Honda CB750F
- BMW K75R/R
- Kawasaki KZ1000 Police Special
- Suzuki GS650
- Harley Davidson Springer Hardtail
The only one that cages (automobiles) seemed to notice, and therefore not try to run over, was the chopper. I understand you really like your Honda; but it is a silent and invisible target.
Loud Pipes Save Lives
Karen Dixon Said,
November 2, 2009 @ 7:46 pm
I feel your pain. I’m usually one that speeds on ahead to avoid getting run over. My husband, on the other hand, has left many boot prints on drivers’ doors! Ride like you’re invisible!
Paul Mooney Said,
November 3, 2009 @ 9:39 am
@7 – fair point sir. Of course, if they just used their mirrors or even WINDOWS they may see the large bike!
@5 – we may talk about that Sean! May get them fitted.
@4 – Great idea in theory but all you need is a young, unreasonable policeman and you are in trouble! The older guys that have “been around” would most likely understand the reason behind doing it.
Todd Carpenter Said,
November 3, 2009 @ 4:21 pm
@7 – Which pipes did you get for your HD? I have a Heritage Softtail Classic and everyone says I should get the louder pipes for the very reason this post exists. HD will not punch out the baffles in the existing pipes (probably something about the laws), and I think they have to recalibrate the engine anyways.
Paul, it is amazing how much more you pay attention to motorcycles as a motorcyclist. Overall I believe it makes you a better driver.
Devin Olson Said,
November 5, 2009 @ 6:03 pm
@10 – I didn’t plan on this turning into an advertisement, but since you asked, I recommend you get Fugged:
Fuggin Fabrication & Engineering LLC { Link }
451 E. Juanita Ave. Suite 7
Mesa, Arizona 85204 (USA)
Phone: (480) 813-4474
Fax: (480) 813-3798
@Paul – Yes, they also do Hondas
Fuggin’s European distributor is:
MTL CUSTOM { Link }
Vetevägen 4
S-383 34 Mönsterås
SWEDEN
PHONE: +46 70-55 55 913