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[Scalyback]

[center]


I guess RE will just add the same cross connection cable as they do to the USA imports. just unplug, remove and bingo, as shown in vid below

[Adam]

Many bikers could help themselves by riding more defensively. A scenario that I have witnessed on multi lane carriageways more times than I care remember is biker in outside lane (fast lane for some) gaining on car in lane to his/her left, car to left is gaining on slower moving vehicle, car driver (Mr or Mrs Richard Head) takes quick look in off-side mirror having not looked in any mirror since doing their make up on the Sidcup By-Pass, bike is in blind spot, car moves to outside lane nearly taking out biker. Not all bikers are lucky enough to avoid the impact. No amount of reflective clothing or bright lights can help the biker in that situation but being defensive and ‘reading the road’ can, you see the car gaining on the slower vehicle so you throttle back allowing the car to go ahead of you, or you wait for car brake lights to come on telling you they have seen you. Simples. As AL Eddie said “…I can see someone is about to do something stupid before they even know they are." I know many of us on this site have not taken any formal tuition or even read The Highway Code since the 60s or 70s, things have changed, think defensively, get some tuition. All that said I am in the reflective clobber and headlight permanently on camp even if I might be mistaken for a larger vehicle, that’s good isn’t it? Posted by Adam

[Scalyback]

Adrian, I learnt that very case!



luckily, I was in a works van vauxhall estate type thing in the outside lane of the M25 on a slightly foggy day. it was three lane, and there was a transit with a hydraulic pod on the back or similar, overtaking something. I was going faster and started to overtake the transit. there must have been something slower in front as the transit suddenly came into my lane, and pushed me into the central reservation hitting the barrier. I turned the wheel a little to the right to keep the vehicle against the barrier as it slowed down as I didn't want to 'flick' back into the M25 traffic. Having taken a moment to check myself, I took off after the transit, but it had gone.



The rather shite company I worked for (Briefly) only carried third party insurance and that was only in case anybody got injured, and so as I did not managed to get the transit's plate, the cost of repairs came out of my wages. I still dream about going back to the depot at christmas when nobody is there and torching the fleet! YAY!

[Reg]

I wonder if car drivers are taught to be aware of motorcycles or any vehicles other than cars during their lessons. Does the current car test adequately check that a candidate is aware of the possibility of a motorcyclist using the road? I passed my bike test too long ago to comment on the current test, but I think the car test should be much more challenging. Sometimes I think it would be a good idea if you couldn't get a car licence until you're had a year on bikes.Blaaaaaah!

[apparently lucky eddie]

I agree with you Reg, a little experience on two wheels would go a long way and I suppose back in the 50's and 60's many people did have bikes before their first car. Another idea which I'm 100% for is regular driving/riding tests. I don't think a re-test every 5 years or so would be too onerous and it would get the worst off of the road - my mrs included.

[dottyone]

The principals that have served me well for the last 50 years include (a)all drivers and riders make mistakes (so do I!) (b) that I am invisible and (c) the idiot is on the 'phone anyway. But I observe that many motorcyclists over-estimate their own skills, and take it for granted that they may ignore speed limits, double white lines etc. They arrogantly believe that it is car drivers' obligation to keep out of the rider's way. If you don't recognise what I am talking about, then just try the Skipton to Kirkby Lonsdale road, or Settle, Ribblehead, Hawes route, any summer weekend. The car stickers that proclaim the need for drivers to look out for bikes are fine, but there is an equal responsibility on motorcyclists to respect other road users. There now, got that off my chest! Stephen

[Reg]

Absolutely right dottyone. There was an unfortunate accident near here recently where a younger rider overtook a tractor on a rural road at speed of 90+. There was a car coming the other way. The outcome was obvious. However, back to the main topic. Having his headlight on wouldn't have made any difference. We need to improve driver AND rider skills.

[Adam]

Hi Reg, I am an Approved Driving Instructor (cars, not motorcycles) and all my pupils are fully briefed on the potential hazards of mixing cars with motorcycles on the same bit of tarmac, I can’t speak for other ADIs. I am however content that the examiners are looking out for any actions by the learner on test that potentially could affect any other road user, simple examples are frequent use of mirrors and good all round observations before moving away from stationary, making a turn or changing road position. I too am in favour of re-testing all drivers and riders at regular intervals (and that’s not just because of the potential benefit to my bank balance ). Adam

[Adam]

Hi Scalyback, you are a very lucky man and well done you for having the presence of mind to keep the van against the Armco. Consequences could have been very different if there was no barrier between you and the oncoming traffic. Adam

[Off to the shed again]

My tuppence, for what that will buy you! On Wednesday, I followed a police car for about 2 miles. I was car bound. The police car was doing 40 in the 30 limit and 45 in the 40 limit. He/She regularly crossed over thye white line on even the gentlest bends. He chose not to use indicators at any of 3 Junctions and 2 roundabouts. So, I suppose the general public, seing such 'driving skills' assume it's ok to drive in any manner they wish. Chris.