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General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: Threkin on June 26, 2012, 05:10:28 PM

Title: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Threkin on June 26, 2012, 05:10:28 PM
 Inspired by this http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=6906.0 (http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=6906.0) I humbly want to start a thread of bullet notes of things you have learned over the years to keep you alive in traffic.

I'll start with:

- Don't linger next to cars, trucks or trains. Pass or fall back. Riding next to other vehicles is a disaster waiting to happen.
- The second your ego takes over, you lose. Ride with no emotion to other drivers. It's not their fault they are stupid.
- Always have an out. You have no one to blame but yourself if you get trapped.
- When in doubt, consult Don Tpanic. Panicky Pete always loses.
- Look as far as front of you as you can, object fixation is a fail. Seeing a sea of brake lights on the horizon is a great warning beacon to rough seas ahead, matey.

That's all I have for now. Anyone else?
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Arnie on June 26, 2012, 10:11:27 PM
- Don't drink or take other drugs and then get on a bike
- Don't ride when tired or sick
- Don't think you can outrun (or outride that motorcycle) cop, they have radios
- When passing other vehicles, try to keep your speed differential reasonable - especially if you have LOUD pipes
- Pissing drivers off means that not only are they stupid and blind, but now they're out to get you
- WEAR your gear - you don't know when you'll need it
- Realize that in ANY collision, you lose.  Right of Way doesn't protect you.
- Watch the front wheel of the car you're next to or passing, it will be the first thing to move when they change lanes
- Its better to change tires while there is still tread left


Arnie
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Lotsokids on June 26, 2012, 11:10:52 PM
1. Always play the "What if..." game.

Always thinking while scanning:
"What if that car pulls out in front of me?"
"What if they change lanes?"
"What if...?"

And it goes on and on until you park your bike. Kind of like what you said by always having an out.


2. MAN, new tires are slippery. My first and only time down was the day after I installed new front and rear tires. I now scrub them with brake cleaner before riding.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: fj11.5 on June 26, 2012, 11:28:40 PM
when riding at night, every furry animal will try to commit suicide using your bike as the weapon of choice ,
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Pat Conlon on June 27, 2012, 12:14:21 AM
If you are focused and the conditions are right,  it's ok to ride fast (within reason)  but.....

Never, never....never, be in a hurry...never.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Klavdy on June 27, 2012, 12:26:18 AM
Ride fast
Take chances
Lane split whenever there's a gap
Always go faster than the traffic
Never do the speed limit
Don't get caught.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Klavdy on June 27, 2012, 01:35:58 AM
This is Dirt Quake! (http://player.vimeo.com/video/44582812)





Do This Sort Of Stuff (http://player.vimeo.com/video/44582812)
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: flips on June 27, 2012, 03:15:00 AM
-Never assume other road users have seen you.
-Install some very loud horns or HOOTers if in South Africa!
-Always be extra alert when the sun is low in the sky.For work I drive around alot,and ashamedly I have to admit I have pulled out a few times only to be shocked by an angry toot and the obligatory middle finger from a biker emerging from the suns glare.

Cheers :drinks:

Jeff P
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: holysmoke on June 27, 2012, 05:26:16 AM
- When riding at night and have an oncoming car, you cannot see past it.  Adjust your speed accordingly.  There may be something in the road and you may need to react to.
- Intersections are accidents waiting to happen.  When waiting at a red light watch the guy coming up behind you and have your escape route planned, he may not stop.
- Intersection; when making a left turn you have to assume oncoming traffic will not stop, even if the light changes.  Have your escape route planned.  You are surrounded by potential mistakes.
- Intersection; when making a right turn remember to look for the pedestrian on your right.
- The top of a hill has reduced reaction time available.
- Gravel is not your friend.  Ride a dirt bike and learn how to deal with it.
- Never drive a bike in a country that drives on your wrong side of the road.  Your instinct which used to save you is now your enemy.
- Riding partners should be your brother, otherwise they're just another object in the road.
- Day dreaming has no place on a bike, focus.
- Everytime you get on your bike assume you know nothing about the mechanical state of it.  Test it everytime you get on.
- Turning left when not in an intersection is extremely dangerous.  Assume the person behind you won't stop and plan your turns accordingly.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Klavdy on June 27, 2012, 06:15:29 AM
Amongst some other clangers, this nugget really stood out.

"- Never drive a bike in a country that drives on your wrong side of the road.  Your instinct which used to save you is now your enemy."

What a load of shit.

Dont listen to Holysmoke, he's a fucken idiot.he drives bikes, he doesn't ride them.

These blokes know how to deal with the beige.
Ride like these blokes, they rock (http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=650_1340404413).
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: FJmonkey on June 27, 2012, 07:13:51 AM
Quote from: Klavdy on June 27, 2012, 12:26:18 AM
Ride fast
Take chances
Lane split whenever there's a gap
Always go faster than the traffic
Never do the speed limit
Don't get caught.
Avoid pinecones
Fixed it for ya Klavdy...
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: ribbert on June 27, 2012, 10:17:00 AM
Lots of good tips already.

   *   I make sure I'm not the the last vehicle to pull up behind a line of stationary traffic.  I filter between the last cars even if I can't make it to the front so I don't get rear ended.  My preference being making it to the front then leaving the
        cars behind me. It's legal here. If the line of traffic starts moving before I get to the front I join one of the lines of traffic.

   *   I do not ride ride behind any vehicle with a load that could fall off. Concreters are the worst, low side trucks stacked 4 times higher than the sides with wheel barrows, buckets, formwork, mixers, shovels etc all thrown on in a heap and
        NEVER tied down - just one bump! Weekend DIY furniture movers with roof racks and trailers know nothing about restraining their loads.

   *   Expect the driver waiting to turn / pull out with whom you have just made eye contact and therefore must have seen you is in fact looking straight past you and has no idea you're there, to pull out.

   *   Remember, "you don't have right of way until someone gives it to you"

   *   Generously acknowledge any courtesy shown you by drivers.

There will, however, always be the one time nothings going to save you. Last year while following a light truck into the sun, the spare wheel carrier under the back dropped down and the wheel slid out, skidded flat then centre punched me, all in heartbeat. The good news? I was driving my crappy old Volvo.  My first thought was not how bad is the car, but what if I'd been on the bike.


   *   On the bike, I ride like I'm invisible and expect every other bastard on the road is out kill me.

Noel
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Dan Filetti on June 27, 2012, 08:20:07 PM
-Keep your eyes moving - check both mirrors periodically.

-Look where you want to go, not where you you think you might go -especially in the corners

-An ounce of throttle control is worth a pound of braking.

-Wear all of your gear all the time -the exception will be the time you go down.

-Inputs: bars, pegs, seat, throttle and brakes demand smoothness at all times, and especially so in the rain.

-in a panick situation, you can brake, swerve, or accelerate, choose one or go down.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: ApriliaBill on June 27, 2012, 08:48:46 PM
In the fall,  pile of leaves are just as slippery as ice....
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: yamaha fj rider on June 27, 2012, 10:52:39 PM
A little different type of ridding tips, bicycling shorts are awesome under pants (wear as underwear) for longer trips. No more monkey butt. Two ibuprofen first thing in the morning and then every four hours really helps.  :good:

Kurt     
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: andyb on June 28, 2012, 08:22:59 AM
Pay attention.  After that, the rest is easy.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: holysmoke on June 28, 2012, 10:48:18 PM
Sounds like I hit a personal note, sorry.  I wasn't poking at anybody's country.  I knew a friend who came over to ride the Gap and switched lanes in the middle of a turn onto other bikers.  Just saying, it seems like it could be something to watch out for.


Quote from: Klavdy on June 27, 2012, 06:15:29 AM
Amongst some other clangers, this nugget really stood out.

"- Never drive a bike in a country that drives on your wrong side of the road.  Your instinct which used to save you is now your enemy."

What a load of shit.

Dont listen to Holysmoke, he's a fucken idiot.he drives bikes, he doesn't ride them.

These blokes know how to deal with the beige.
Ride like these blokes, they rock (http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=650_1340404413).
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Klavdy on June 28, 2012, 11:28:01 PM
I knew someone who went to a hospital and they cut the end of his cock right off!

I've been very wary of hospitals ever since.

(http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h223/klavdy/Amerika2006129.jpg)

(http://chzallnighter.files.wordpress.com/2012/06/party-fails-oops.gif)
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: McKilla Guerilla on June 29, 2012, 09:18:23 PM
Quote from: Klavdy on June 27, 2012, 12:26:18 AM
Ride fast
Take chances
Lane split whenever there's a gap
Always go faster than the traffic
Never do the speed limit
Don't get caught.

X2 on all that. I'm terrified of motorcyclists that ride @ or under the limit in the middle lane. That's where people get merged into.

-Ride a dirtbike, learn how to control a motorbike when it gets squirrelly, preferably before your life depends on it.

-Never try to outride your confidence. If your mate is going too fast for you, ride @ your own comfort level. Don't do something stupid to keep up. If he can't wait up for you, find a new friend.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: jamesearthdrum on June 30, 2012, 12:16:27 PM
Quote from: andyb on June 28, 2012, 08:22:59 AM
Pay attention.  After that, the rest is easy.


+a million, on all that has been posted so far
My morning commute is always in traffic on slow city streets, for me it's not what if, its when!
Head on a swivel.
Watch your six.

james
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: yamaha fj rider on June 30, 2012, 01:41:32 PM
Quote from: McKilla Guerilla on June 29, 2012, 09:18:23 PM
I'm terrified of motorcyclists that ride @ or under the limit in the middle lane. That's where people get merged into.

-Ride a dirtbike, learn how to control a motorbike when it gets squirrelly, preferably before your life depends on it.

-Never try to outride your confidence. If your mate is going too fast for you, ride @ your own comfort level. Don't do something stupid to keep up. If he can't wait up for you, find a new friend.

Right on the money. You don't become a more skilled rider from a hospital bed. Ride at your skill level if you push your self short bursts only then back in your comfort zone. Want to be a better rider take some classes!!!!! Learn from a pro not Joe blow or you will suck just like he does. Trying to ride above you ability for any amount of time will get you killed. Be aware of other riders around you if they are trying to ride above there skill level get away from them!!!!! It is always better to be the last one there than the guy laying on the side of road waiting EMS.

Kurt
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Lotsokids on July 01, 2012, 01:32:51 AM
I forgot one:

Road surfaces - If it's shiny, its slippery.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Firehawk068 on July 02, 2012, 08:15:24 PM
Quote from: Lotsokids on July 01, 2012, 01:32:51 AM
I forgot one:

Road surfaces - If it's shiny, its slippery.

I was just going to post something about this.........
If you are riding in the wet......stay off the painted lines!
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Threkin on July 02, 2012, 09:00:47 PM
 Don't ride behind towed boats.
I watched an outboard engine fly off the back of a boat being towed on the highway. Luckily there was no traffic and I easily avoided it (in my truck).
Like the guy in the Volvo I instantly thought of getting hit by a boat engine on my bike and the thought is still fresh in my mind when I see a boat.

Also, Pig Shit. http://www.yamahafz1oa.com/forum/showthread.php?t=52187 (http://www.yamahafz1oa.com/forum/showthread.php?t=52187) I wrote this up a few years ago and I still cringe when I think about it.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: McKilla Guerilla on July 02, 2012, 09:15:14 PM
Quote from: Firehawk068 on July 02, 2012, 08:15:24 PM
I was just going to post something about this.........
If you are riding in the wet......stay off the painted lines!

Speaking of, I slipped on a wet sewer cover on my way to work a coupla weeks ago. caught it @ an intersection. Didn't go down as I was only going 10mph but it woke me up for sure!!
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: 1tinindian on July 02, 2012, 11:23:02 PM
I tell my kids while riding, treat the situation like a WWII fighter pilot would.
Always be on the lookout for trouble, (the enemy), cagers, you name it.
Keep your head on a swivel, always assess your conditions and  everything around you.
And like a fighter plane, use the agility of your bike to keep yourself out of a bad situation, either through braking, turning or accelerating.
Use your mirrors, always be aware of vehicles behind you as much as in front of you.
(I had a good friend killed from being hit from behind while he was on his motorcycle.)
Avoid riding after dark, if possible. There is just to many things that can come out of the darkness and get you.

I could keep going on, but I think you guys know where I'm coming from.

Leon
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: bugboy on July 02, 2012, 11:40:37 PM
For newer riders - at first you are a little afraid/tentative and you'll probably be OK,,,, then you start thinking you're getting pretty good,,,,,,that's when you crash.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: ribbert on July 03, 2012, 01:52:14 AM
Quote from: bugboy on July 02, 2012, 11:40:37 PM
For newer riders - at first you are a little afraid/tentative and you'll probably be OK,,,, then you start thinking you're getting pretty good,,,,,,that's when you crash.

They compile aircraft accident stats against pilot hours and there's a spike at the point inexperience gives way to over confidence and rises again when experience gives way to complacency.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Dan Filetti on July 03, 2012, 03:46:27 AM
I avoid man hole cover whenever and wherever possible.  ESPECIALLY when they are wet.

I have seen video of accidents from man hole cover dropping in on one side as they are ridden over, flipping the bike end over end.  Also, as recently stated, they get slippery when wet. I was just trying to find examples over on youtube, but could not. 

Maybe later.

Dan
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Klavdy on July 04, 2012, 12:34:20 AM
Don't bother wearing Hi-Vis, it does nothing to help.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: ribbert on July 04, 2012, 03:09:36 AM
Quote from: Klavdy on July 04, 2012, 12:34:20 AM
Don't bother wearing Hi-Vis, it does nothing to help.

Yes it does, it makes it easier for the Ambo's to locate you amongst the wreckage.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: elbows on July 04, 2012, 03:42:45 AM
ride fast and smooth and keep your eyes open for the rest of the fucking idots on the road
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: AustinFJ on July 04, 2012, 09:14:48 PM
Quote from: Klavdy on July 04, 2012, 12:34:20 AM
Don't bother wearing Hi-Vis, it does nothing to help.

While in one sense, I understand what you are saying (if they are ignorant, they don't see ANYTHING) it does offer the ability to rock up to the window of the moron that just cut you off and let him know that he is either drunk or stupid, possibly both.  When wearing Hi-Viz, they don't tend to argue.   :mocking:

Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Klavdy on July 05, 2012, 06:05:07 AM
Learn to love lane splitting.

Filtering by motorcycle on the A6 from the Stockport area out towards Buxton (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-1QKVtuvHg#)
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: andyb on July 05, 2012, 07:57:48 AM
And go to jail or have an irate cager door you, particularly in areas where it's illegal and a good way to cause resentment for motorcycling by the masses.  Lovely.  Perfectly appropriate where legal, though.


Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: soundmindryan on July 05, 2012, 08:51:36 AM
I always keep in mind that the world is NOT a closed course race track, where there's crews to keep the track clean and free from sand, oill spills, debris and is fenced off to prohibit animals, kids, an morons from entering the track. In the real world, ANYTHING can happen, including an entire lane dowsing with transmission fluid for the length of a city block, and odds are it's at an intersection where you're turning. (Don't ask me how I know :pardon:) Don't ride faster than you can avoid these Spy-Movie-type oil slicks.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Arnie on July 05, 2012, 09:16:27 AM
Quote from: Klavdy on July 05, 2012, 06:05:07 AM
Learn to love lane splitting.  (Youtube clip)

I can't tell you just how much I disagree with this "example" of filtering.
It is an invitation to go to:  [ Jail / Hospital / Court / Mortuary ]

You do need to "command the road" by taking the lane and not putting yourself in position to get squeezed into the curb (or over the cliff) , but this is sheer lunacy IMO.

I do split lanes, but to put yourself on  the wrong side of the road WHILE there is other traffic coming at you is just stupid.  Most if not all road users expect that they have a right to use the lane to the centerline and have oncoming traffic stay on their own side.

Arnie
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: tmkaos on July 05, 2012, 03:05:47 PM

I'm with you on this one Arnie, I lane split all the time  but WTF? never on the other side of the line.  It's like standing at a line of urinals and then pissing in the one next door while someone is using it. It's his territory, chances are he's going to be pissed off and will probably hit you. In a toilet, that sucks, on a bike, sucks worse.


Quote from: Arnie on July 05, 2012, 09:16:27 AM
Quote from: Klavdy on July 05, 2012, 06:05:07 AM
Learn to love lane splitting.  (Youtube clip)

I can't tell you just how much I disagree with this "example" of filtering.
It is an invitation to go to:  [ Jail / Hospital / Court / Mortuary ]

You do need to "command the road" by taking the lane and not putting yourself in position to get squeezed into the curb (or over the cliff) , but this is sheer lunacy IMO.

I do split lanes, but to put yourself on  the wrong side of the road WHILE there is other traffic coming at you is just stupid.  Most if not all road users expect that they have a right to use the lane to the centerline and have oncoming traffic stay on their own side.

Arnie

Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Klavdy on July 05, 2012, 07:11:11 PM
What a load of hot cock.
There's nothing at all dangerous about the way that bloke lanesplits.
When you lane split, lane split like a BOSS!
Or else get outta the way, go home and knit a Hi-Vis vest, stick a dayglo flag on your bike.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Arnie on July 05, 2012, 07:31:41 PM
You have got to be trying to make up for lost time off the list.
You can't possibly think that riding on the wrong side of the road is a reasonable thing to do, or are you much stupider than I gave you credit for?
I'm fine with "filtering" between lanes of traffic moving in the same direction when there is room.  I'm also fine with overtaking (passing) traffic moving in the same direction as you by using the oncoming lane, but ONLY when it is free of oncoming traffic.
This clip, and you (supposedly) would have us believe that its the "BOSS" thing to do.

B U L L S H I T !!  You are inviting a head on collision while on a vehicle with no protection from such events.  As licensed road users, we agree to a set of conventions.  This behaviour is outright dangerous and foolhardy.  To encourage it is criminal.

Arnie


Quote from: Klavdy on July 05, 2012, 07:11:11 PM
What a load of hot cock.
There's nothing at all dangerous about the way that bloke lanesplits.
When you lane split, lane split like a BOSS!
Or else get outta the way, go home and knit a Hi-Vis vest, stick a dayglo flag on your bike.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Klavdy on July 05, 2012, 07:49:51 PM
Stupid?
Rubbish.
You do know where that clip is, don't you Arnie?
Not everyone is as timid or inept as you seem to think.
Maybe it's a by product of your demonstrated physical and moral cowardice.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: SlowOldGuy on July 05, 2012, 09:12:41 PM
There are European countries where this type of riding is "accepted" by the auto public.  The key is to not abuse the speed limit while doing it.

This would never work in America.  Too much ego and frustration from the auto side and too many stupid abusive riders.

Klav, I see no reason to make this so personal.  Could you please interact in a less inflamatory mode?  I don't mind the usual Klavdy, but everything doesn't need to be at that level. 

Please.

DavidR.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: bugboy on July 05, 2012, 09:47:13 PM
Seems like Klavdy's brush with mortality has left him a little more confrontational and opinionated than before. Maybe his meds need adjusted or something.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Mike Ramos on July 05, 2012, 10:19:14 PM
Well, well well,
I take no position on this issue, but how rich old DavidR saying "no reason to make this so personal".
After DavidR hammered me over some Mickey Mouse video I posted re: a situation he wasn't even involved in.
I'll post my response to his statments about that video an another thread later, but now this is pure irony at its' best.
Hey DavidR, don't forget the humor, it keeps the "inflamatory mode" at a more moderate level.
What a joke...
Keep smiling fellows,
Mike Ramos.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Dan Filetti on July 05, 2012, 10:56:37 PM
Quote from: Mike Ramos on July 05, 2012, 10:19:14 PM
Well, well well,
I take no position on this issue, but how rich old DavidR saying "no reason to make this so personal".
After DavidR hammered me over some Mickey Mouse video I posted re: a situation he wasn't even involved in.

Mike-

I just went back and re-read that thread.  David never got personal, unless you consider him saying passing on the right was not a good idea, and not something he would be involved in himself.  Not to rekindle this, but I agree with him on this point.

He also complimented your riding and offered an conciliatory olive branch, and you said 'no offense taken'.

Clearly you were bruised by the criticism.  Keep in mind however that for whatever reason, responses to posted videos unless they are complimentary, seem to really get people upset, I'm learning.

Klavdy on the other hand, with all of his colorful unvarnished foibles would be hard to take as not personally offensive if you were set apposed to him on a given point.  It is seemingly his nature.

Dan   
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Mike Ramos on July 05, 2012, 11:49:27 PM
Good evening Dan,

No offense taken. However, the person whom I passed on the right had no problem with it, so why is anyone else bothered by it?

I have video from the ECFR of me being passed ON TH RIGHT by the exceptional rider from Florida. It was a NON ISSUE that did not even merit discussion; he was not asked to ride some where else nor did any one stop to discuss the matter, nor was any one upset, all things that David R said he would do & was.

I was passed on the Cherohola so wildly by the excellent rider from back East [on his Honda 1000R] that he brought me beer when we returned to the KOA (which was really cool because my parents absolutely refuse to let me drink alcohol until I turn twenty one). However, I toasted him and the gentleman from Florida who followed him into a turn, fish tailing his FJ in the triple digit mph range. Just incredible riding...! And they were pretty close at times as well...!

It was some of the best riding (by members of this Forum) that I have witnessed to date. It was good, sound and competent riding AND quite close at time, spirited yes, stupid no...!

This is the wrong thread for this but I will post other riding moments & events that I have seen by members who have attended the Rallies that I have attended. Competent riders all.

Keep in good humor & ride safe,

Mike Ramos.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Klavdy on July 06, 2012, 12:15:43 AM
Head up, eyes up, lead with the chin and shoulders.
Dip the inside elbow and don't hang on too tight.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Grey runner on July 06, 2012, 05:22:08 AM
Quote from: Arnie on July 05, 2012, 09:16:27 AM
Quote from: Klavdy on July 05, 2012, 06:05:07 AM
Learn to love lane splitting.  (Youtube clip)

I can't tell you just how much I disagree with this "example" of filtering.
It is an invitation to go to:  [ Jail / Hospital / Court / Mortuary ]

You do need to "command the road" by taking the lane and not putting yourself in position to get squeezed into the curb (or over the cliff) , but this is sheer lunacy IMO.

I do split lanes, but to put yourself on  the wrong side of the road WHILE there is other traffic coming at you is just stupid.  Most if not all road users expect that they have a right to use the lane to the centerline and have oncoming traffic stay on their own side.

Arnie


Hi All, Arnie I live not too far away from the where the video clip was done and believe me if you didn't lane split it would take all day to get somewhere, motorist over here are very good at moving over to allow you to do this sort of maneuverer. As has been said ride with authority and even more people will move over for you. Remember we aren't all Americans; some of us have nice fellow road users!

P.S. Kladvy has a very colourful turn of phrase!
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Klavdy on July 06, 2012, 07:23:21 AM
(http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u308/b3nje909/6ffa70b1.jpg)
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Dan Filetti on July 06, 2012, 07:26:56 AM
Quote from: Klavdy on July 06, 2012, 07:23:21 AM
(http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u308/b3nje909/6ffa70b1.jpg)

Case in point.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: fj11.5 on July 06, 2012, 08:41:32 AM
didnt seem too bad, just dont blink and forget about the center islands, no give in those bastards  :lol:
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Klavdy on July 06, 2012, 09:00:52 AM
(http://www.lolwtfcomics.com/upload/uploads/1330885290.jpg)
Case in point.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Dan Filetti on July 06, 2012, 10:01:57 AM
Which case and which point?

A bit non sequitur, even for you Klavdy.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: 1tinindian on July 06, 2012, 10:27:11 AM
Quote from: Klavdy on July 06, 2012, 09:00:52 AM
(http://www.lolwtfcomics.com/upload/uploads/1330885290.jpg)
Case in point.

What a lard-ass!
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: axiom-r on July 06, 2012, 01:23:54 PM
 (popcorn)


Oh- on the riding tips thing....  I like what was said about riding at your own pace.  If you are scaring yourself you are most certainly doing it wrong.  In the days of yore I did a bit of street racing on the canyon roads near by.  Our group got pretty big there were 3 of us that would meet every Sunday and the total group might have been 8-12 on any given Sunday...  the only fallers were the new guys that didn't know the roads but tried to hang with us anyway- even after we told them not to because we would stop and wait.  Big lessons learned on those trips.  I recently applied them at the WCR and let the leaders on the ride get away when I just wasn't as comfortable pushing it.

The other thing that has served me well is the commitment not to use the motorcycle for quick trips to the store, regular commuting or any other use than recreational riding.  When your purpose of being on the bike is to RIDE IT - you tend to do it better because that is your focus. Versus being distracted with thoughts like: "shit I am late for work", "Man, should I just get two twelve packs or the 5th of Jim Beam?", "Wow! Look at those tits!" or any such similar.....

Keith Code said: "You have a $10 bill of attention. Where you spend your $10 while riding is what determines how well you ride".


PS - that fat ass in BDU's is not RA.  No way could he pass the PT and I see no markings on the uniform.  Likely a state militia or other group of weekend warriors....

PPS - Klavdy, See "Team America" the movie if you have not yet seen it. Fuck Yeah.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: fj11.5 on July 06, 2012, 01:31:11 PM
rather try my luck hitting the cement islands whitelining than running into fat arse, dont like bike racks  :lol:
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Klavdy on July 06, 2012, 07:11:17 PM
Quote from: Dan Filetti on July 06, 2012, 10:01:57 AM
Which case and which point?

A bit non sequitur, even for you Klavdy.

Course it follows, mate.
The "Fuck yeah" is a "Team America " reference, a nod to chauvinism.
It's a case in point that we have two similar yet different societies, both with their rednecks, yobbos and bogans,both with their unwritten, unstated yet totally known to the initiated cultural mores.
There's even cultural differences internally, as an example,California does not explicitly prohibit lane sharing,(by statute) nor do many other U.S states yet it is socially tolerated in only a few States.
It's unimaginable to most outsiders that murder or incarceration for the transgression of a minor road rule would be contemplated let alone condoned and indeed insisted on by many U.S citizens, yet that is what you  face in America.


Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Dan Filetti on July 06, 2012, 08:12:14 PM
We are sooo far off the original subject..., but I agree with most of what you say, we have our rednecks and those that think their nose belongs in others' business because 'they know better'.

If you think about it, the USA was founded by a bunch of religious rejects, those that were too wound up about it to co-exists in their own countries.  They were thrown out/ chased out of their birth countries precisely because of their intolerance and sanctimony, or at least the intolerance and sanctimony of those that believed differently than they did. 

The vestiges of these original puritans are alive and well today seems to me.  Many of those, know better than you/ what you need/ should do/ how you should behave, have their busy-body roots, I posit, in our founders, who just so happened to be intolerant rejects themselves. 

So, opening your car door on a guy that is lane splitting is nothing more than a personal crusade, a mini-inquisition if-you-will.  They're thinking "that the guy deserves it", I'm fairly sure...  "that'll learn them lane-splitting-sinners, he'll never do that again..."

Dan   
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Klavdy on July 06, 2012, 08:55:42 PM
Yes, post has drifted.

Shoes or boots with laces: The laces can come undone and get stuck on pegs and other parts of the bike.
Buy a good quality tyre pressure gauge, use it often and use it as your reference gauge.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: SlowOldGuy on July 06, 2012, 09:32:08 PM
Wow, I can't believe no one has mentioned these obvious lessons:

1) Always pass the rider on his right.  

It's okay, because:

2) We don't ride in a vacuum and he'll be expecting it.

Oh, and I almost forgot, 3) "keep the humor"

DavidR.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: ribbert on July 06, 2012, 11:18:43 PM
Quote from: Klavdy on July 05, 2012, 07:49:51 PM
Stupid?
Rubbish.
You do know where that clip is, don't you Arnie?
Not everyone is as timid or inept as you seem to think.
Maybe it's a by product of your demonstrated physical and moral cowardice.


Wow, since when did the Forum degenerate into this sort of response for expressing an opinion.  Arnie's views are not racist, religious, political, abusive or outrageous and he's entitled to share them, as did Klavdy.

This sort of response drags the tone of the whole place down.

The forum no doubt covers all sorts of riders, not just gung ho ones and if some see that maneuver as dangerous and not something they would do themselves, fine.

And yes, I do that, but only if the oncoming traffic is slow.

Come on boys, play nice and keep it to some to good humoured ribbing and informative debate.

Noel

Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Lotsokids on July 08, 2012, 06:14:28 AM
I generally don't wear shorts when riding, but I did today. I scooped up a bee into the bottom of my shorts by my knee and it decided to start stinging me under my leg. OUCH!!! :shout:
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Arnie on July 08, 2012, 10:43:22 AM
Klavdy (or is it David?) - Is that what your mother screamed at you when you were eating your own shit after crawling out from beneath your rock?

We've known each other via FJ lists for over a decade.  You have chosen to be "the single most offensive individual", not to mention most obnoxious.  You do not add anything to the knowledge of the various lists, you play the clown - poorly.

It seems that you do share your toys with others which is very nice and you seem to be well regarded by those who have had personal contact.
All I can say is, "You must be one hell of a cock-sucker to have made all those friends."

Back to the subject that started this;  Maybe there are some places where this sort of Commanding the Road is tolerated.  Why don't you try it on the Bruce Hwy?  Or in Brissy, Sydney, Melbourne?  OR, give it a go in any big city in the US or Europe or the Middle East.  You have my whole hearted support to ride on the wrong side of the road. 
Do please let us know an address to send the sympathy cards to your wife

I don't believe I made any claims about most people being timid or inept, but in fact they are certainly inept.  ie yourself and most other drivers.  If I choose to provide some cushion of space between myself and them, that does not qualify as timid.
Bet you would have liked some space between you and that pine cone.

As for demonstrated moral cowadice...
One of us uses our real name.  The other hides behind some nonsense jumble of letters.

I'm also very willing for the whole of this list to decide which of us is more valuable, helpful, and contributory to the list.  Lets just see who gets asked to leave.

Arnie





Quote from: Klavdy on July 05, 2012, 07:49:51 PM
Stupid?
Rubbish.
You do know where that clip is, don't you Arnie?
Not everyone is as timid or inept as you seem to think.
Maybe it's a by product of your demonstrated physical and moral cowardice.

Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Klavdy on July 08, 2012, 06:15:36 PM
Boy, that got under your draft dodging skin, eh?
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: McKilla Guerilla on July 08, 2012, 09:09:53 PM
Quote from: Lotsokids on July 08, 2012, 06:14:28 AM
I generally don't wear shorts when riding, but I did today. I scooped up a bee into the bottom of my shorts by my knee and it decided to start stinging me under my leg. OUCH!!! :shout:

Last year I had one of those angry little bastards crawl into my shirt & give me the death jab in the chest :ireful:. @ 70mph no less!!! Kinda funny now but that day I was miffed for sure.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: ribbert on July 08, 2012, 09:29:29 PM
Quote from: McKilla Guerilla on July 08, 2012, 09:09:53 PM
Quote from: Lotsokids on July 08, 2012, 06:14:28 AM
I generally don't wear shorts when riding, but I did today. I scooped up a bee into the bottom of my shorts by my knee and it decided to start stinging me under my leg. OUCH!!! :shout:

Last year I had one of those angry little bastards crawl into my shirt & give me the death jab in the chest :ireful:. @ 70mph no less!!! Kinda funny now but that day I was miffed for sure.

Last Summer I raised my visor for some fresh air ( wearing sunglasses ) and one wedged itself at speed between my helmet and head and bit me on the temple which became quite swollen and painful.
One week later, exactly the same thing on the other side of my face. And what did I learn from that?  Nothing!
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Pat Conlon on July 08, 2012, 09:37:42 PM
Several years ago, coming home from the WCR in Petaluma, I was cruising up over Moniter Pass....
All was right in the universe, a beautiful day, sun shining, clean roads, no traffic, my bike was singing her FJ song....so I slowed down and opened my face shield to get some fresh air and sure enough...

zing....from out of no where, a single bee comes in, bounces off my sunglasses, crawls up in my helmet and stings me on my ear....ouch.

I'm thinking that God has a sick warped sense of humor....

So I learn my lesson, I clean out my helmet, close my face shield and proceed up over the pass....

...2 or 3 miles later only to come around a corner and ride thru a black cloud swarm of bees.....  

Had my face shield been open then.....I shudder to think.... someone gave me a wake up call... My guardian angel maybe?
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Klavdy on July 08, 2012, 10:08:06 PM
Yep, been stung by bees & wasps who perfectly timed coming through a just cracked open visor.
Bit by a spider too.
That was my fault for not checking my helmet before putting it on though.
We also have "Blue-Bottles" here,insanely painful jelly fish that swarm along the beaches then wash up in thick bands on the sand.

(http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2007/01/images/070123-blue-jellyfish.jpg)

Don't be tempted to ride motorcycles or bicycles along the beach squishing the damn things, they will flick up all over you and sting like forty bastards.
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GepdgjCoqWc/TieT2gqwKRI/AAAAAAAAAeo/4zzz1fC8jog/s1600/a4s_manowar052308a_24572c.jpg)
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: CanDman on July 08, 2012, 10:23:22 PM
Quote from: Klavdy on July 08, 2012, 10:08:06 PM
Yep, been stung by bees & wasps who perfectly timed coming through a just cracked open visor.
Bit by a spider too.
That was my fault for not checking my helmet before putting it on though.
We also have "Blue-Bottles" here,insanely painful jelly fish that swarm along the beaches then wash up in thick bands on the sand.

(http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2007/01/images/070123-blue-jellyfish.jpg)

Don't be tempted to ride motorcycles or bicycles along the beach squishing the damn things, they will flick up all over you and sting like forty bastards.
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GepdgjCoqWc/TieT2gqwKRI/AAAAAAAAAeo/4zzz1fC8jog/s1600/a4s_manowar052308a_24572c.jpg)

Good tip.....I'll remember that when I am over there........but seriously Klav...you should be given it to this guy for not wearing his rubber bear suite....

(http://i1071.photobucket.com/albums/u517/photocandman/thegreatdisguise.jpg)
:rofl2:
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: ribbert on July 09, 2012, 01:52:17 AM
Don't get too cold for too long

Yesterday I went on a 600k ride leaving at first light.  It was 3 deg. and I was cold. By the time I hit open country and picked up speed and the glow of the hot shower had faded I was feeling particularly cold, the temp had now dropped to 1 deg. but I'm no stranger to that.  It was then I realised I had put my Summer mesh pants on, no liner, I may as well have been wearing shorts.   I contemplated turning back but it would have meant cutting back on my intended ride so I continued.  The cold slowly made its through me and I found it impossible to stay loose, even my jaw became sore from clenching it.  With arms and body stiff, corners were terrible, gear changes not smooth and concentration difficult as my brain became foggy, it was quite scary.  Several hours into the ride I considered turning back again, this time not from cold or discomfort but because I  felt in this state I wasn't really safe, and the Great Ocean Road was still to come.  Anyway, I pushed on to a big hot lunch and a warm up by which time temp was up to 13 deg. on the coast (Port Campbell) and came good, still cold though.

A poignant reminder of the dangers of exposure.

I thought this might provide some cold comfort to you guys sweating it out in the Northern Hemisphere at the moment
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: The General on July 09, 2012, 09:09:31 AM
Try not to hit anything.  :pardon:
http://www.angelfire.com/ak2/intelligencerreport/high_speed.html (http://www.angelfire.com/ak2/intelligencerreport/high_speed.html)
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: CanDman on July 09, 2012, 02:02:28 PM
Quote from: Pat Conlon on July 08, 2012, 09:37:42 PM
Several years ago, coming home from the WCR in Petaluma, I was cruising up over Moniter Pass....

I'm thinking that God has a sick warped sense of humor....

Had my face shield been open then.....I shudder to think.... someone gave me a wake up call... My guardian angel maybe?

Maybe it was God ............    :morning2:
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: I make oil on July 09, 2012, 02:18:25 PM
Quote from: The General on July 09, 2012, 09:09:31 AM
Try not to hit anything.  :pardon:
http://www.angelfire.com/ak2/intelligencerreport/high_speed.html (http://www.angelfire.com/ak2/intelligencerreport/high_speed.html)

That Guy is NUT'S!  Either he is insane, on drugs or has a death wish. :wacko3:Makes me nauseous just watching.   :bad:  I thought Ghost Rider was crazy.   :crazy:
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Steve_in_Florida on July 09, 2012, 04:37:28 PM
Quote from: I make oil on July 09, 2012, 02:18:25 PM

That Guy is NUTS!


Yeah, this "Crazy Ivan" would last about twelve seconds in the wacky traffic around Central Florida. We get such a hodge-podge of tourists from all over the world. No one knows where they're going, and they have to get there FIRST!

I love the people who are glued to their electronic devices when they're driving. I do my best to keep them where I know where they are: BEHIND ME! That way, when their Garmin tells them to "Turn Left Now!", I'm out of their zone of influence. Hopefully.

I do enjoy other people's videos of crazy stuff, though.

Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Dads_FJ on July 10, 2012, 09:38:40 AM
Don't take your bike to the dentist. Well, maybe there but not from.  I had an appointment first thing this morning, but after screwing around in my mouth (no pun intended), and talk of crowns and a filling I need, the ride to work was too distracting for my comfort.  Your results may vary.  Ditto for eye appointments, I can't see shit after my eyes are dilated.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Klavdy on July 10, 2012, 04:51:38 PM
 
Quote from: Dads_FJ on July 10, 2012, 09:38:40 AM
Don't take your bike to the dentist. ,,,,  Ditto for eye appointments, I can't see shit after my eyes are dilated.

Didn't Dean have something similar happen?
Except he'd been to the proctologist.
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Threkin on July 13, 2012, 05:37:45 PM
 Head Checks.

Whenever I am planning on changing lanes or swerving in any way, I turn my head and make sure it is clear.

Way too often there is a car where I expected the lane to be empty, and I have to quickly readjust. I blame this on the "I wasn't going slow and I'm going to put down my phone and prove it" syndrome.

When I put on my turn signal on I check by looking behind me in the direction I am turning. After years of making sure I check, I sometimes laugh because I can go ten miles on the road lost in my thoughts with no memories of what just happened and I am looking behind me wondering where all the cars came from.

Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Dads_FJ on July 18, 2012, 11:06:23 AM
In 1941 very few young Americans had or needed drivers licenses. This riding guide was given to troops in WWII to help train and remind them of riding basics.

(http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb37/campsimonette/1941rider.jpg)
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: FJmonkey on July 18, 2012, 07:15:57 PM
Quote from: Dads_FJ on July 18, 2012, 11:06:23 AM
In 1941 very few young Americans had or needed drivers licenses. This riding guide was given to troops in WWII to help train and remind them of riding basics.

(http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb37/campsimonette/1941rider.jpg)

Don't forget to wear all your gear, if you don't have enough then you can wear your military uniform, your hat works as well as any helmet will... :blum1:
Title: Re: Riding tips, what have you learned?
Post by: Klavdy on July 30, 2012, 06:16:35 PM
Use your mirrors and try not to get in the way.

What bikers think when filtering (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4WBP2xEyx0#ws)