Hi all,
I've noticed experienced riders weaving through traffic like cars were stationary in an obstacle course.
My brother who is also a motorcyclist (more experienced than me) says this is quite a thrill, and becomes routine with more experience?
I wonder though if this doesn't significantly decrease a motorcyclist's safety margin while riding and increase the risk that a slight error in judgement could lead to an accident.
So my question is basically: what *do* experienced riders think about "weaving"? Can it be done safely? If so, how?
Cheers,
Liraz
Well it depends.
Do you like decreasing your odds? I think the first time you have a close call with a cage you will rethink the whole bike scene all together.
Having said that yes it's fun. But you have to be very very very aware of EVERYTHING around you. I will only "weave," or squeeze if I know I can absolutly make it. If it is questionable I will wait and make sure I can ride tomorrow. The upside of doing this can save your ass if needed. (story below)
I ride from Tampa, FL to Sarasota, FL every friday on I-75 around 80mph. This "incident" was back around october when we were having all those hurricanes. Well there was a row of about 15 asplunduh trucks (the tree service trucks) all pulled over on the shoulder. Im cruising along in the right lane with a SUV in the middle lane (3 lanes) and as Im going along I see all 15 of these truck starting to merge right in front of me, there is no way I can stop so I split between the SUV, and 15 trucks before I could get the hell away. NOT FUN!!! but I did it and thats only because I didn't freak out and just held it. Just like if your going through traffic, you have to know you can make it before you even try.
Just be careful.
:cheers:
Well, there is a theory of motorcycling that centers around one of the biggest dangers for riders, traffic. We have to watch out not only for those merging and changing lanes, but for people coming up from behind and rear-ending us.
By moving slightly faster than the flow of traffic, you are on the offensive, and are not in anyone's blindspot for very long. In California (where I ride often) lanesplitting is statistically less dangerous than sitting in traffic and being hit. I personally keep moving, taking my safety into my own hands.
Aaron