Here's one for the "I need to kick my own ass" notebook.
I rode my bike to work today. I work in Cleveland, and there are the Cleveland Metroparks about 5min. away from work. Today, on lunch, I went out to ride and met another rider in the parking lot, asked him if he wanted to cruise, and we headed for the park.
As we entered the park, it was kind of boring, but about 5min. into it the twisties started. Problem: too much traffic traveling the same way we were. Remedy: pass traffic so we can fully enjoy twisties.
I passed all the cars on a straight stretch with no problems, with the exception of one vehicle. I was annoyed because the best turn of the bunch was coming up. Well, as I went to pass the last vehicle, he decided to speed up, causing me to be in the opposing lane going into the turn I wanted to ride thru. Then comes a minivan straight at me. I had to hit the gas and just in time I was able to switch back into my lane mid-turn, lean it enough to hit the footpeg, so as to avoid the gravel on the other side, and correct myself.
This is honestly the first time I have actually felt that I was gonna die. I kept my composure and did everythig right, thank GOD. This is just an example of how unpredictable most cagers are.
I learned two things today, or maybe re-learned.
1- Don't pass people even if you are CLOSE to a blind turn (duh)
2- Don't assume you know what a cager's gonna do.
The dude behind me said I looked like I was in total control the whole time, but I felt a BAD lowside coming. Anyway: If you have any "near-death" tales to tell, let's hear 'em. It'll be a good learning thread for newbies, and a great reminder to all of us "experienced" riders. (although I believe that we NEVER stop learning)
Help me out with this one. I think we'll all benefit.
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~Nick
2000 CBR600F4
Piped, Jetted, totally trick...
Keep the Rubber side down
my Bruthas AND Sistas!!!
[This message has been edited by CBR Brutha (edited June 20, 2000).]