SPEED! How to get comfortable at speed???

[stw]

Had a 5 outings on the freeway and wonder how to learn to relax and cruise at 70+ ?

The bike feels stable, no wobbles, at ease at high speed. It's not the bike; it's me.

At first on the freeway I'm wary and careful but pretty comfortable at speed. But after a few minutes I feel gripped and too tense, and I notice my speed falling toward 65-60. This seems to be true for me regardless of heavy or light traffic and I notice I'm way too tense about pavement repair or ridge in the lane I have to cross, especially at an angle.  Little bit of buffeting since there's no fairing but doesn't seem like it's the problem.  I lean forward a little and the full-face helmet feels comfortable on the freeway.

Probably just need to get used to if with more freeway riding.

But if you have suggestions for getting past this phase, please let me know.

[kevin_stevens]

Go driving with the car windows down.  It helps get used to the noise and buffeting, and makes the next-lane traffic seem visually much closer.

KeS

[GRN]

Or skip the slab, 2 laners are far more enjoyable.

[Blunder]

There's no quick and easy fix. There's the slow gaining of experience by riding more, mixing in all kinds of roads as you explore the world via a motorcycle. Ya, it's long and requires patience, but it's fun, so you got that goin' fer ya.  

Stay off the freeways as much as possible until you gain some experience and comfort on your bike. You got one thing working in your favor; you seem to be aware of road conditions, just don't lock in on them to the exclusion of everything else. It's a very dynamic and fluid environment out there and it sometimes seems as if it all is conspiring to kill you.

Have fun!

[mugwump58]

Stay in your comfort zone. It'll either change over time or it won't, but then you'll always be in your comfort zone.

[FiremanBob]

Lift your eyes, look farther down the road and anticipate everything farther in advance.  If your vision horizon is too short, everything looks like it is rushing up at you. If you lengthen your view, the world comes at you more slowly. Your focus should generally be at least 12 seconds ahead of where you are; i.e., where you will be in at least 12 second. This way you have more time to respond to changing conditions such as potholes, obstacles and lane-changing cages and you won't feel so rushed.

This should enable you to relax your grip and enjoy the ride more.

[Cablebandit]

Cruise along at 80.  Pretty soon 70 will feel like you're standing still.

[UHOH]

Lift your eyes, look farther down the road and anticipate everything farther in advance.  
If your vision horizon is too short, everything looks like it is rushing up at you.
If you lengthen your view, the world comes at you more slowly...

The Fireman speaks on target.

[richak]

   Grip the bike with your legs, use your trunk muscles to hold yourself against the wind, and lighten up your grip on the bars. Your hands and forearms won't tire as much and the bike will be more stable reacting to the road surface without a tight grip on the bars. And what Bob said.

[ANZAC]

A light grip on the bars - keep it loose.  Let the bike move under you and don't grip too hard.  Try resting your left arm on the tank.  Make sure you relax and have a slight curve to your back.

Wear good gear and ear plugs too  

[FiremanBob]

ANZAC brought up a great point. All that wind pounding your eardrums raises the stress level could lead to a pounding headache. Earplugs will keep the inside of your head comfortable.

[doublen675]

Practice makes perfect.  Speed has never bothered me, I was a little skittish after my off a couple years ago and really am still kinda recovering from that.  But it's just a matter of doing it and getting used to it.

[cbsnbiker]

Had a 5 outings on the freeway and wonder how to learn to relax and cruise at 70+ ?

First questions: how much riding experience do you have, and have you taken any rider education courses (e.g. the MSF Basic RiderCourse)?

If you have not taken a riding course, I recommend you do so. Completing the course could give you a big boost in confidence, because you'll have a better handle on how to operate the motorcycle.

Otherwise, just take it easy and gradually work your way up. As you gain experience, you'll also gain confidence.

[GRN]

...have you taken any rider education courses (e.g. the MSF Basic RiderCourse)?

If you have taken a basic course, consider intermediate and advanced courses you can take to expand the tool box. Some are geared more toward technique, some like the on street course are about real life situational awareness... both are invaluable. A quick google scan suggests Utah is unfortunately pretty thin on continued training... MSF ERC which is OK (better than nothing - basic practice on your own bike), and an advanced class http://www.utahsba.com/schools/ART/

[cbsnbiker]

If you have taken a basic course, consider intermediate and advanced courses you can take to expand the tool box. Some are geared more toward technique, some like the on street course are about real life situational awareness... both are invaluable. A quick google scan suggests Utah is unfortunately pretty thin on continued training... MSF ERC which is OK (better than nothing - basic practice on your own bike), and an advanced class http://www.utahsba.com/schools/ART/

+1

The BRC2 (formerly known as ERC) might be just the ticket for him.

[Max Wedge]

First questions: how much riding experience do you have, and have you taken any rider education courses (e.g. the MSF Basic RiderCourse)?

If you have not taken a riding course, I recommend you do so. Completing the course could give you a big boost in confidence, because you'll have a better handle on how to operate the motorcycle.

Otherwise, just take it easy and gradually work your way up. As you gain experience, you'll also gain confidence.

+1. Also, might give ear plugs a try. I started using them on freeway cruises, it makes it much less fatigueing. It reduces the feeling of speed through audible means and lets you concentrate on the ride itself.

[vulcanbill]

Find someone to mentor you through some skills drills on a big ole parking lot or industrial area.  Once you get comfortable with the bike in a variety of situations at varying speeds, you'll be more mentally prepared for what speed means.  Right now it probably means "everything could kill me".  After you have an arsenal of things you can do to protect yourself should something go awry, you'll likely feel more like, "I'm ready for the unknown and can therefore enjoy the ride more".  

Granted, at a certain point, you need to accept the reality that you're road pizza should something go seriously wrong.  However, by drilling certain behaviors into your brain, you dramatically increase your ability to anticipate properly, react properly, and get yourself safe before your brain has time to protest.    I say find a mentor because pushing yourself beyond your known skill set is very difficult when you're alone.  You need to see what limits look like before you can flirt with them.  If you find some psycho that can show you, maybe even on your bike, that it really will stop in 1/2 the amount of space its taking you to stop it, then you'll be more inclined to try harder and get better.  

We've done this for a lot of people and it works.  It can be hard and tedious but I think going out any less than fully prepared is reckless.    

[garry]

I've ridden a shit ton of technical, sporty miles since 2003 (150K miles?) and I still find my GPS-confirmed top speed to be in the 80s most days unless there is some multi-car agro-pass that approaches the ton. I just don't like going fast in a straight line (even at a track day). Give me a road polluted with 25 MPH corners and I'll still try to ride it at my usual70 MPH (give or take a little), but I just don't ever twist the throttle in anger on a straight. I really need to grow a set at track days an hit the rev limiter in top gear on my KTM, but I'm bored by straights. I ride for the curves.

[stw]

Thanks for all the great advice. I've been using it all (whenever I get the chance as winter eases).

Confidence at speed does seem to grow slowly as I keep at it.

I try to ride a piece of freeway regularly, 20 miles at a time, and I'm looking farther down the road and relaxing my grip on the bar, squeezing tank, and leaning forward more.  

Freeway riding is not my favorite or intended kind of riding. But I do have a good commute available on the freeway that is probably safer than picking my way through the dozens and dozens of intersections on the much longer (and not more interesting) commute off the freeway.

Yes, I took the MSF basic rider course, and I drill the skills regularly at parking lot sessions. Also drill higher speed emergency stops. Don't know much about the intermediate course, and we may not have much on the schedule here in Utah, as was mentioned. I've wondered what skill level is needed for the intermediate rider course.

[richak]

  Assuming you passed the beginners course, that should qualify you for the intermediate.  

[Ack535]

1. Earplugs and a good quality full face helmet really help.

2. Keep your eyes further down the road as Fireman suggested.

3. A bike with a fairing helps quite a bit too. Looks like your riding a newer Triumph. Try a small clear windshield for your bike.

4. Practice.

Pete

[cbsnbiker]

Thanks for all the great advice. I've been using it all (whenever I get the chance as winter eases).

Confidence at speed does seem to grow slowly as I keep at it.

I try to ride a piece of freeway regularly, 20 miles at a time, and I'm looking farther down the road and relaxing my grip on the bar, squeezing tank, and leaning forward more.  

Freeway riding is not my favorite or intended kind of riding. But I do have a good commute available on the freeway that is probably safer than picking my way through the dozens and dozens of intersections on the much longer (and not more interesting) commute off the freeway.

Yes, I took the MSF basic rider course, and I drill the skills regularly at parking lot sessions. Also drill higher speed emergency stops. Don't know much about the intermediate course, and we may not have much on the schedule here in Utah, as was mentioned. I've wondered what skill level is needed for the intermediate rider course.

I like your comment about relaxing your grip on the bar. You should have just enough grip to do the job -- keep the throttle in position, etc. -- and no more than necessary.

Interestingly enough, the freeway is a much safer place to ride, statistically speaking. It's not necessarily the most fun, but it does have its place.

You qualify for the next MSF course in the lineup. (Lurkers: having students wait after completing the beginning course before taking the next course is old school and out of date.)

More info on MSF course offerings (not every course is offered in every location):

 http://msf-usa.org/index_new.cfm?pagename=RiderCourse%20Info&content=C55DBB87-A0CC-53D5-64D098C9870C8030&referer=MSF%20RiderCourses

[Windblown]

Lot's of good tips above. Speed is a relative thing. Wrap your mind around this concept "Speed is not dangerous, closing rates are dangerous."  On a freeway closing rates are typically very low and sight lines very long, the time you have to analyze what lies before you is extended considerably compared to rural secondary roads. Keep decent following distances, don't lallygag around 18 wheelers, and don't let your primary focus be the cars around you. Your primary focus should be further down the road.

[Kootenanny]

Confidence at speed does seem to grow slowly as I keep at it.

Confidence is what it's all about.  And the best way to gain confidence is practice (unless, of course, you're 19 and a squid...).

Keeping relaxed is key...but, that's part of confidence, which takes practice, etc....

[VFRider]

Lots of good advice here.

I am constantly scanning the mirrors and as said, looking down the road.   Staying relaxed helps me stay relaxed!

If I am in slower traffic I try to stay in a lower gear so the engine is in the power band.

Something else to consider, the mechanical condition of the bike.  I found when I returned to riding after many years off and even just after the winter that having confidence in the bike went along way to being comfortable on the highway.   Knowing the bike was in top nick takes it out of the equation for me.

I also find that I am more comfortable being in the fast lane...nobody on my left and no off/on ramp traffic.

[landlover]

Ear plugs a must, as far as speed is concerned, I try not to dwell on it to much because try to put as much distance as I can away from other vehicles, I like that pocket where there are no vehicles around me at all and yes sometimes that is impossible in that case try to stay where I am and ask myself can the other cars around me see me and if not where is the out or where can they see me. Not to state the obvious but go at times when there are very few cars and build from there. Remember first time on the Express way and it scared the heck out of me but after a while you get used to it, or go the direct route and find a busy day on their and have a semi in front on the side and behind you, while your in the right hand lane, after that cars are nothing. Just kidding but it did happen to me so be prepared mentally for anything, you will get used to it. Something I really think helps them to see you and it will help you in a strange way, BRIGHT CLOTHING!! AGATT!!

[jstark47]

Stay off the freeway on windy days, especially if you a small unfaired bike, until you master it on calm days.  You don't need the extra stress of having the wind bang you around from different angles or feeling like it's going to blow you off the back of the bike.  (It's not, but it feels that way at first.)

[stw]

No kidding about the wind.  Yesterday was a really windy day on the freeway commute with viscious gusts and the sky clouded with dust kicked up.  

Fortunately I've gained some experience slowly for freeway riding at speed so it seemed like a good time to learn about getting buffeted by gusts and leaning into the wind.

Thanks for the advice in this thread--my comfort zone is up to 80-85 mph on the freeway now, with some practice with urgent stops from speed. Still gaining experience and not rushing it but feel ok on the freeway now.

The freeway is not my favorite kind of riding, of course, but experienced riders tell me freeway riding can be safer for commuting than a long series of busy rush hour intersections.  For those of us who commute, it may be an important safety option depending on the route, traffic, etc.

Plus, where else except for a track would I have the chance to learn to ride comfortably at 85 mph.

[spd2918]

Yes, I took the MSF basic rider course, and I drill the skills regularly at parking lot sessions. Also drill higher speed emergency stops. Don't know much about the intermediate course, and we may not have much on the schedule here in Utah, as was mentioned. I've wondered what skill level is needed for the intermediate rider course.

Take the course.  It will make you more comfortable on your bike.

Too many people pass up additional training because they think they are not ready for it.  If you have 500 miles on your Bonnie you are ready.

[cbsnbiker]

Stay off the freeway on windy days, especially if you a small unfaired bike, until you master it on calm days.  You don't need the extra stress of having the wind bang you around from different angles or feeling like it's going to blow you off the back of the bike.  (It's not, but it feels that way at first.)

I have found that many riders (not all) who don't know how to handle windy days, don't know how to countersteer. Helping the rider understand and practice countersteering helps the rider handle windy days and other wind-influenced events such as the wind from a passing semi.

[mp350]

You need a wind screen. I just sold my 05 Bonneville with 23,xxx miles on it. Took off the wind screen and went for a 200 mile ride and the first thing I noticed was the wind pushing me back in the seat  which made me have to grip harder to stay in the seat. With the wind screen you still get some buffeting but you can relax your hands and has said before grip with your knees. But the Bonneville is best suited for 2 lane roads, where you can relax and enjoy the view.

[Hotbrakes]

Riding in the rain always helps me with confidence and I concentrate on being smooth and thinking ahead.  Sometimes I actually ride faster in the rain on the freeway.  Dunno why...it just feels good.  Sounds like you're doing much better already.  Parking lot practice always helps no matter how experienced you are.

[LENSMAN]

No kidding about the wind.  Yesterday was a really windy day on the freeway commute with viscious gusts and the sky clouded with dust kicked up...

Reduce your tire pressure to 30psi or less to improve grip. I did that on a windy trip going home on highways, and it saved me from some strong cross winds, especially on bridges. Don't forget to slow down as well.

[Kootenanny]

Reduce your tire pressure to 30psi or less to improve grip.

You're kidding, right?

[cbsnbiker]

 

Reduce your tire pressure to 30psi or less to improve grip. I did that on a windy trip going home on highways, and it saved me from some strong cross winds, especially on bridges. Don't forget to slow down as well.

Shouldn't that tip be in this thread?

 http://www.sport-touring.net/forums/index.php/topic,61556.0.html

 

[stw]

You need a wind screen. I just sold my 05 Bonneville with 23,xxx miles on it. Took off the wind screen and went for a 200 mile ride and the first thing I noticed was the wind pushing me back in the seat  which made me have to grip harder to stay in the seat. With the wind screen you still get some buffeting but you can relax your hands and has said before grip with your knees. But the Bonneville is best suited for 2 lane roads, where you can relax and enjoy the view.

Different experiences I guess. For me the Bonneville T100 (no windscreen) is as comfortable on freeways as it is on 2 lane roads. I do feel the wind increase as speed goes up, beginning about 70mph, but no sense of the wind pushing me back in the seat, no need to grip harder, hands can relax no problem.

[stw]

Just an update:
Thanks for all the good suggestions. After many more miles, riding at speed is comfortable now, well past 80mph for me. Wind is fine too. Lots of wind where I live so I've had a chance to get a lot of experience with it--heavy steady winds, strong gusting winds, whatever. I don't seek out wind, but I don't mind it now. Also have had good opportunities to get experience riding in rain (plus snow and hail  ).

Getting more comfortable at higher speed makes me safer, I think, but it's not the same as being safe at higher speeds. That's still dependent on situational awareness, basics skills like emergency braking, all those other skills.

Seems like improving and getting experience is a balance between getting more comfortable without getting complacent.

[Kootenanny]

Seems like improving and getting experience is a balance between getting more comfortable without getting complacent.

Exactly!

[Wistrick]

just a thought but when was the last time you had your eyes checked...I had been going to Wally World for my eye checks and glasses, then when I switched jobs I got insurance and when to a real eye doctor I found out that I was over prescribed by a factor of ten...Talk about things rushing you...get ur eyes checked

Dan

[cksheppard]

The OP didn't mention what type of bike he has...to me a good tip or two, some practice, and a mod made a difference in getting comfortable on the highway.  These basics helped me:
- Grip the tanks w/ your legs more
- Use your core to support yourself, not your arms.

Just doing those automatically lighten your grip, as others have recommended.  The next thing for me was adding a Laminar Lip... I was getting blasted by air right in my throat, I always felt like I was fighting the wind.  After adding the Lip (try any brand you want), the pressure off my throat & shoulders was significantly reduced, so I could reeeellaaaaxxx...  So if you have a bike that beats you up, you may want to look into something like that.

And once you relax, 80 is just like any other speed, IMO.  Except remember it takes longer to stop. ;-)

[Grainbelt]

Drop your elbows, drop your shoulders, and breathe.

Looking farther ahead is great advice as well.  

[bomber]

there's some great advice in here, as well as some good advice that has little to do with being comfortable at speed. (there's also some plain old opinion that masquerades as fact, but that's to be expected.)

Spd's right -- you're ready for more training.

You area ALWAYS ready for more training.

That said, noting in the MSF basic or intermediate courses will directly prepare you for interstate riding. They are good to teach, and refine, skills,and can certainly increase your confindence. These are worthy and worthwhile goals.

A screen might be for you, but it might not. Millions of riders reach 80+ speeds daily with no screen whatsoever -- you can too, should you choose to.

Mostly, to get more comfortable doing something, do more of it.

Most importantly, enjoy yourself. This is supposed to be fun.

;-}

[Cars5585]

Do not use the rear brake. I rode with a new rider on the highway and he paniced and locked the rear brake. The bike went down and he slid on his back for at least 300ft. Also, my experience has been to relax my body as much as possible. Be in control of the motorcycle, but you will wear yourself out if you have a death grip on the bars and your thighs squeezing the tank. The bike wants to stand up at highway speeds so there is not reason to try and muscle the bike where you want. Instead use your body weight to control the bike. You will be able to go longer distances and be much more enjoyable. But I also agree with other posts that say to avoid the interstate. They are boring anyways. Stay alert of cars and avoid their blind spots. Most people wont even check their blind spot before switching lanes. I cant tell you how many times I have been cut off while riding.

[Mhbouch285]

Time and experience should make you more comfortable

[bikerfish1100]

Do not use the rear brake. I rode with a new rider on the highway and he paniced and locked the rear brake. The bike went down and he slid on his back for at least 300ft. Also, my experience has been to relax my body as much as possible. Be in control of the motorcycle, but you will wear yourself out if you have a death grip on the bars and your thighs squeezing the tank. The bike wants to stand up at highway speeds so there is not reason to try and muscle the bike where you want. Instead use your body weight to control the bike. You will be able to go longer distances and be much more enjoyable. But I also agree with other posts that say to avoid the interstate. They are boring anyways. Stay alert of cars and avoid their blind spots. Most people wont even check their blind spot before switching lanes. I cant tell you how many times I have been cut off while riding.

So is that the new corollary to "stay away from the front brake, it'll kill ya!" ??

and you would recommend what instead? flapping those thighs in the breeze?

[ConPilot1]

Do not use the rear brake. I rode with a new rider on the highway and he paniced and locked the rear brake. The bike went down and he slid on his back for at least 300ft. Also, my experience has been to relax my body as much as possible. Be in control of the motorcycle, but you will wear yourself out if you have a death grip on the bars and your thighs squeezing the tank. The bike wants to stand up at highway speeds so there is not reason to try and muscle the bike where you want. Instead use your body weight to control the bike. You will be able to go longer distances and be much more enjoyable. But I also agree with other posts that say to avoid the interstate. They are boring anyways. Stay alert of cars and avoid their blind spots. Most people wont even check their blind spot before switching lanes. I cant tell you how many times I have been cut off while riding.

Whaaaaaaaaa?? Bike wants to stand up at highway speeds? Don't use the rear brake??  

No offense pal but I would seriously question your qualification to be advising anybody of anything motorcycle-wise.

And a 300 foot slide would equate to a rider down at about 80 MPH. You're taking a new rider without the sense not to panic and rear brake slam on an 80 MPH or better highway run? Sliding on his back? Gear? Leathers? Backpad? God I'd like to know because the only thing I know of that MIGHT survive a 300 ft slide would be full race competition grade leathers or a full on Kevlar suit. Newbies tend not to have those.  

[Mrs. DantesDame]

Do not use the rear brake.

"use the rear brake judiciously"  

You sound one of those "other guys" who say "Never use the front brake. I had a buddy use the front brake once and he went over the bars  "  

Anyway, you have two brakes for a reason. Use them both, but learn to use them correctly.  

[Justin]

Do not use the rear brake.

30ish % of your stopping power is in the rear brake. That could be the difference between new underwear or a new bike.

[Papa Lazarou]

Different experiences I guess. For me the Bonneville T100 (no windscreen) is as comfortable on freeways as it is on 2 lane roads. I do feel the wind increase as speed goes up, beginning about 70mph, but no sense of the wind pushing me back in the seat, no need to grip harder, hands can relax no problem.

The wind blast will start around 80 on a Bonnie. It gets a bit tiring to ride at 80 on a naked all day. I find I can do bursts of 95 or so for 20 minutes at a time but then drop my speed back to 80.

[Shirker]

If it's cold.............all bets are off. If it's freezing, don't even take the bet. If it's below -24F/-7C have the right equipment or counting 'em when you get off doesn't mean they will still work. Ever.

[Kootenanny]

If it's cold.............all bets are off. If it's freezing, don't even take the bet. If it's below -24F/-7C have the right equipment or counting 'em when you get off doesn't mean they will still work. Ever.

I'd never suggest a novice rider attempt riding at anything even approaching those temperatures.   Never mind the fingers (and the fact it can be really hard to operate the controls when you can't feel them), at that cold there are traction issues even before you consider the possibility of ice on the road...