I ride too fast-thinking about quitting

[skater69]

Been riding nearly 10yrs now.  For the past 3 years it's been almost entirely commuting.....which is year round here in So Cal (sorry snowy states).  Great commute with twisties and little traffic.  
I just cannot ride my Blackbird calmly though.....never have been able to in the 4yrs I've owned it.  
I can't ride an upright bike either.....I've owned a few (cruisers, weestrom..etc). My back couldn't stand it after awhile.  Love the SPORT-touring ergo's.

But I'm starting to wonder how long I can cheat death or a bad accident.  I have a blast riding the XX but now just married and over 40, I'm wondering how smart my hyper-commutes are.  But I really have a hard time "cruising" on motorcycles.  I get bored....and wish I was in a car.

The reason I only use the bike for commuting and not on weekends except occasionally:
1-wife is not into riding....or riding 2up (and neither am I)
2-I run/train in the mornings on weekends.  By the time I get back from that, wife and I usually do something together or with our dogs..etc.
3-I don't want to invest the money or time into track days either.  With my work, running, home life....not much time.  And I really don't care that much about it to be honest.  

So I don't know.  I love my hyper-commute but much of it is how I can pretty much fly to work and pass everybody.    Even when I had a much less powerful SV650 I rode the same way.
Part of me thinks, if this is what 90% of what riding has become for me, then maybe I'm safer driving my car......which I drive MUCH MUCH slower.  I always worry about injuring myself and not being able to run....and how devastated I would be.  But not having the XX is also kind of unthinkable at the same time......although a bit less so now than in the past.

Anyone else have a similar predicament/dilemma?  Anyone been able to slow down on a Blackbird?  

[Rogue]

I'm just like you and live in SoCal so I can totally relate.  I do a lot of commuting on my 1125R too so you can imagine how hard it is to ride slow.  Which is me saying I don't ride it slow.

However, I have a personal limit on speed that I won't exceed when commuting in urban areas.  It changes with road conditions but you get my drift.  I do drive slower in the car, much slower than I do on the bike, but I wouldn't consider it slow for car standards.  I still drive briskly.

I've come to the realization that I'm just too addicted to speed to do anything about it.  There are days when I drive with the flow of traffic, but most times I drive slightly faster than the flow.  

I've stopped worrying and thinking.  I just ride, because if I don't ride to work, I always regret it.  I love riding too much to give it up any time soon.  I've thought about quitting though, seriously I have.  But every time I hop on the moto, I love it so.

[nater]

Don't get rid of the bike.  You will miss it way too much.  The thought of a fine and jail time slows me down when commuting.  When riding twisties, I just keep it at a speed where I don't have to slow down for the corners.  For me, it is much more satisfying and thrilling to lean off and rail a corner than it is to twist the throttle and go through the gears in a straight line.  It sounds like you may need to get to the drag strip once in awhile to get it out of your system.  

[Giaka]

Funny we are pretty much opposites. I do not like to ride fast for the commute (speed limit or slightly faster), I love the seating position of my Versys and ST. I love to take the time to look around and enjoy the ride, I have NEVER wished I was in a cage at any point during my commute. My wife loves to ride, either on her bike or 2 up with me (which I totally enjoy). Having said all that do you really think one of us is in more danger than the other one? I don’t think so but you need to go with your gut feeling on it.

[jbs80106]

You've touched on my own devil that rears up when I think about getting a faster toy such as the S1000RR or a GSX-R.  I know the top limits of my K75 (~125) and do like to twist the throttle when appropriate.  Knowing that, I would probably feel the need to exercise the 190+ hp of a super bike.  However, little/no traffic where I live and ride in Colorado as compared to SoCal like you.

If I was feeling worried about the safety of my riding habits however, I think I be admitting that perhaps I'm riding beyond my abilities.

Ever had a close call or lots of close calls to make you consider hanging the helmet up?  

[Capirex]

Anyone else have a similar predicament/dilemma?  Anyone been able to slow down on a Blackbird?  

A lowside in a construction area helped me to scrub some speed off on my commute.  Ive also heard smoking weed suggested as a speed deterrent here a few times.

[skater69]

If I was feeling worried about the safety of my riding habits however, I think I be admitting that perhaps I'm riding beyond my abilities.
Ever had a close call or lots of close calls to make you consider hanging the helmet up?  

Not questioning my abilities......more of just the "what if's".  No close calls either.  I ride pretty fast but never squidlike or reckless.  Although I have been known to overtake/cutoff abruptley the 10mph-under-the-limit-left-lane parked-statue when there's no traffic.

[bubba zanetti]

About 5 years ago I really slowed down. I think it was directly related to a couple of painful injuries and how slow my healing was. In other words a big dollop of mortality. I will occasionally wick it up a bit but nothing like I used to and so over time I have lost that feeling for high speed and simply do not miss it. The adrenalin rush has been replaced by savouring the ride instead. Scenery, places and even the planning.

I now equate the high speed dash with quantity and the measured pace with quality. I think it is developmental in nature and somewhat natural.

[skater69]

Another option is to just slow down. If you recognize the issue, you can fix it.

And I do.  I drive my Ford Focus.  

[Papa Lazarou]

Always, always obey urban speed limits. You won't like yourself much of you hit a child.

Next-get a cafe racer. They feel much faster than they are and tick many boxes. Better still, base it on a Guzzi V7.

[SuperHans]

I understand what you're saying. I don't like to ride slowly, but then again I don't drive slowly either. I'm not saying I ride full throttle at all times, but I do often ride considerably higher than the speed limit and also ride fairly aggressively.

We can’t lane split in PA so I find myself taking extreme advantage of gaps in traffic to filter through whenever possible. I often think later that I could have been one pissed of cager away from meeting my maker. Ultimately I get such a thrill out of riding like this that I continue to do so.

I try to mitigate the risk as much as possible by wearing the proper gear and always looking for ways to extricate myself should someone pull out in front of me or do something stupid. It’s not fool proof, but it’s the best I can do if I’m going to continue to take these chances.

[st2sam]

Holy sh!t, my long lost brother!
You've got the same problem I have except I don't ride year round, at least very little riding in the winter.
When I owned a ZX14, had the same problem your having with the XX. I now have a C14 with a top speed of about 155mph down from 180mph or there about on the ZX14.
Trade the XX on a C14 ASAP, you'll slow down.
  
Problem solved.

[bomber]

if commuting is boring you as much as you indicate, don't commute -- being bored will eventually catch up to you in the form of not paying enough attention

as for how long you can continue to "cheat death," that's entirely up to you -- you're likely on the low end of riding experience around here, and, if nopthing else, the riders on this site are a good indication of how many year you can, in fact, enjoy motorcycling.

if you simply don't WANT to slow down, sell the XX and get a track bike . . . . .

it's your head, your right wrist, and your choice . . . . changing bikes will alter nothing else.

[skater69]

Always, always obey urban speed limits. You won't like yourself much of you hit a child.

Next-get a cafe racer. They feel much faster than they are and tick many boxes. Better still, base it on a Guzzi V7.

I'm riding back country like roads....and about 7 miles of freeway.  Whatever the speed limit  I'm well exceeding it usually.  Then again I go at least 10mph over no matter what I'm driving....unless I'm in a neighborhood.

[skater69]

if commuting is boring you as much as you indicate, don't commute -- being bored will eventually catch up to you in the form of not paying enough attention

Not sure where I ever communicated my commute was boring.    
Far from it......it's country like back roads for most of it.....and I'm flying.

[bomber]

You wrote:

"I'm wondering how smart my hyper-commutes are.  But I really have a hard time "cruising" on motorcycles.  I get bored....and wish I was in a car."

[rgbeard]

I've found the best cure for this is a good accident.

(sorry, not kidding.  In my case I survived it, and I commute slower).

[Busa@11K]

It's hard to learn how to make the brain control the throttle sometimes ... I've had my share of riding way faster than I should.  Learning how to slow down can be done without having an accident to snap you into a better riding behavior.  Thinking of the danger risk and circumstances if a bad crash occurs can certainly help bring riding behavior back into reality most of the time.  I still ride fast sometimes, but I chose more carefully when to do it.

Learning how to keep your speed reasonable is like trying to quite smoking cigarettes.  It's an addiction that must be controlled by brain power.

[pcrdude]

Trade the XX in on an FJR.  It is much too heavy to ride fast.  If you don't believe me, just ask county.

[Rogue]

I do believe that riding a slower, less powerful bike WILL help you slow down.

Seriously, maybe get a smaller, slower bike.  You will like it better in the twisties too.  I went from my Hayabusa to a Buell Firebolt.  It slowed me down big time when riding in the big, wide open roads.  Not so much in the urban areas though.  

[Cablebandit]

Ninja 250.  Or just slow down.

[Rogue]

Just slowing down on an XX is easier said than done.  Trust me.  I know.

[Mr.Black]

By the end of the 'regular' riding season, I am over confident in my abilities and take more chances than in the spring. Sometimes there are close calls and I think I should sell the bike and walk.

It would be the wrong decision.

[scottzilla]

None of you are as fast as you think you are.

[Giaka]

By the end of the 'regular' riding season, I am over confident in my abilities and take more chances than in the spring.

The problem with a never ending riding season. We keep pushing thinking we are getting better and better. Until.................POW.

[Kootenanny]

Been there, done that.  Quit riding in my mid-20s because I realized I was gonna kill myself if I didn't slow down, and...well, I wasn't gonna slow down, so...

Started riding again a decade ago...still have the same "speed bug."  Dammit!

Oh, well.  One thing I'd suggest is--get RID of the XX.  Japanese hyperbikes are smooth, powerful, and competent...to the point that they're boring to ride, unless you're doing warp speed.  Get something that feels fast, even at slower speeds.  The thing is, what we crave is the feeling of speed, not the speed itself...this is the basis of the old saying, "It's more fun to ride a slow bike fast than a fast bike slow."

Like Rogue, I find my Buell Firebolt is fun to ride even at sub-ballistic speeds (although, trust me, it's no slouch in the twisties).  Even better might be something like a Triumph Scrambler or Thruxton (or even an original classic from the 60s, if you're a hobby mechanic).

[Mr.Black]

None of you are as fast as I think I am.  

[Rogue]

My vote goes to Triumph Thruxton.

[02Tac]

"  I always worry about injuring myself and not being able to run....and how devastated I would be."

If your words are not motivation enough for you to slow down than yes, maybe you should consider getting rid of the bike.  You are the only one that can make the decision to slow down; if you cannot find something that motivates you to do that........................

For what it is worth, you are only the third person, in almost 30 years, that I have suggested they get rid of their bike.  All three for the same reason; the inability to ride responsibly / safely. You and one other for speed, the other for just being an idiot on his bike.

[Flyer]

I get bored....and wish I was in a car.

If you're tired of it, you're not doing it right.
Either do, or don't do. There is no "bored".

[Hardware]

...Either do, or don't do. There is no "bored".

Good for +1 rep.

[malbojah]

I bid $2k on the XX!

[miles]

If you're tired of it, you're not doing it right.
Either do, or don't do. There is no "bored".

Reread the original post. He said riding a cruiser-type bike bores him- not his Blackbird or his commute.

[Flyer]

Ah, but riding does bore him, hence the elevated speeds and flushed endorphins (much like running)!

Maybe  the occasional track day (safer environment, family friendly weekends) could "fix" him, and he could keep the SBB?
Sorry malbojah.  

[Mr.Black]

I bid $2k on the XX!

Doesn't have enough miles on it for you.

[FiremanBob]

It's the Bird's fault. My Blackbird seems unhappy under 60 mph anywhere, and I feel like I'm crawling. But on the GS550 I can bop around the country roads at 35 and have a wonderful time.  You could café a small bike to get your sportbike ergos, and then like the T-series MGs, feel like you're going fast when you aren't really.

[Hardware]

A small cafe...or a motard...yeah!

[black hills]

I found myself having to ride the CBR faster to get the same enjoyment. I bought a KTM Adventure and it is more fun at slower speeds, plus I can do more exploring in places the CBR just couldnt go.

[malbojah]

Doesn't have enough miles on it for you.

Exactly. My bike is drinking oil like it's 1999 again and a barrel only cost $18

[DogBoy]

Buy a real dirt bike (not a dual sport). Give up some time on weekends to ride off road. The dirt bike will solve all your problems. You'll crash and get hurt but not killed or run over by a truck. The Blackbird will seem boring and you'll be too sore to ride it.  


I think the advice that you are bored with your "regular riding" is probably true otherwise you wouldn't be trying to make it more exciting and risky.

[Kneescrubber]

I ride too fast too. Lots of close calls, been to the emergency room 3 times, quitting has never crossed my mind.




Two marriages with one child each, multiple grandkids I adore, still not quitting.




If you decide to quit and play it safe, that's cool.    We all have to make our own decisions in life. Asking this group to make a decision for you is foolhardy.  

[jstark47]

Next-get a cafe racer. They feel much faster than they are and tick many boxes. Better still, base it on a Guzzi V7.

This.  


Triumph Bonneville is another good one to feel like you're going fast but you're not.  I ride much slower on my Bonneville than on my Trophy 1200.  And I'm not bored, it's very engaging.  

[flips21]

I have two paths to suggest:

Path #1:  Quit Riding for Awhile:
I had a similiar problem with a C10 in Washington state.  Every time out I exceeded the ton and, (the worst part), it was boring.  I asked myself "was it worth it" at the end of every ride.  2 years of "No" was enough for me to throw in the towel.  I sold it and waited for a time in my life when it would work for me again.

10 years later, I took it up again.  I kenw that I was still riding too fast, but it wasn't anything like before.  An accident slowed me down and I am now at the point where I am happy with my current risk/reward balance.

Path #2:  Quit Commuting
I have tried commuting.  55 miles starting in rural Sonoma Valley to the heart of San Francisco.  I spend all my time on high alert with miles of sharing.  It only takes one day of commuting to kill the joy of riding for me.  After a commute, I have to force myself into a weekend ride on open roads with limited traffic. It takes about 3 miles to remember the joy of riding again.  Find the riding that works for you and avoid the riding the doesn't.

Flip

 

[Kootenanny]

Path #2:  Quit Commuting
I have tried commuting.  55 miles starting in rural Sonoma Valley to the heart of San Francisco.  I spend all my time on high alert with miles of sharing.  It only takes one day of commuting to kill the joy of riding for me.  After a commute, I have to force myself into a weekend ride on open roads with limited traffic. It takes about 3 miles to remember the joy of riding again.  Find the riding that works for you and avoid the riding the doesn't.

Ya know, Flip makes a good point.  I've said before, I dunno if I'd ride a bike if I lived in a major city...I certainly wouldn't want to commute on it.  I commuted by motorcycle for several years in my 20s, and yeah, it gets old (especially when it's raining).  I might not have taken up riding again if I didn't live in the sticks...

(BTW, after I stopped riding motorcycles, I took up bicycling in a big way, and commuted by bicycle for several years--if I didn't work from home, I still would if I could.  Bicycle commuting is less frustrating than motorcycle commuting--at least, anywhere that lanesplitting isn't allowed, and maybe even where it is--it's surprisingly quick, and it's great for your health.  If it's at all possible for you, I'd suggest giving it a try).

[Frankienuckles]

Just throwing this out there, but take it to the track. Track days or racing. Let your need for speed do you some good! It will cost $$, but likely less $$ than one good (or bad) accident.
If that doesn't appeal the idea of getting a "slower" bike makes sense. I have a gsxr 1000 as my primary bike and a ktm duke II (the 640 single) as my second bike and when riding the duke I rarely miss the outright "speed" of the gsxr. Although while I wouldn't call the duke a "fast" bike (109 mph top end, that's it!) it is very fun and pretty quick and nimble around town and on back roads.  

[Rogue]

For me, lane splitting is a HUGE parting of enjoying the ride to work.  I love the feeling of going in between the line of cars up to the front of a busy intersection--it feels like the traffic didn't exist.  Having said that, I don't enjoy doing that for miles and miles on end!  I've done it, it's dangerous and stressful after a while, but it sure beats sitting there stopping and going!  It feels like I just escaped from prison, with the "prison" being the cage doing the stop and go action.

[sprk_sprd]

+1 on the naked or cafe suggestions.  You'll think you're going faster than you really are.  But when you look down at the speedo, you'll see that you're doing legal speeds.  

[Testcase]

+1 on either a Triumph Thruxton or Ninja 250. I ride much more... calmer on the Thruxton than I do on my Uly.

[Skee]

Not to sound like a dick (which is free-speak for "this is gonna make me sound like a dick..."), but it just sounds like you have no self control. That's not an insult; I'm in the same camp. I get just plain old stupid on something like the FJR with gobs of torque. The SV does really nicely now for keeping me at sane speeds where I can use the torque nicely, regardless of what the speedometer says. I'm having way more fun at way slower speeds than when I had the big-bores.

I'm in the same camp for the time being, but I'm missing the HP.  So what I always do when I'm passing a car is remind myself that I don't want to do something stupid and give the driver I passed the opportunity to tell the EMTs or Leos that the guy was riding like a maniac.

That tends to slow me down and keep it reasonable.

[boogeyman]

And I do.  I drive my Ford Focus.  

So you are scared of getting hurt.  I am too.  Slowing down on a bike doesn't sound like an option for you.  Sell the bike and the Focus, get something fun and sporty.  Maybe a Miata? You can almost lane split with one of those.  You'd still be out in the wind a little.  You could then share the vehicular fun with the wife since you and her don't like to do two up?

I went to fast on a Ninja 250 when I was 18/19, realized that and sold it until I could control myself.  Smaller bike might not help.  I'm doing a little better now, kinda.

Good Luck!

[Liquidsilver]

Commuting with no 'good' roads between home and work, I hate doing it on my FZ1.   The bike never gets to breathe, and there's no lane-splitting allowed around here.
 
I bought a retro standard and it's so much better, so I'm in the 'buy a Triumph Bonneville or similar' group.

[county]

I do not think speed is particularly dangerous.  It is mostly circumstance,

[black hills]

I do not think speed is particularly dangerous.  It is mostly circumstance,

actually the faster you ride the less time you spend on the road, so your chances of being in an accident are reduced

[bomber]

a friend of the family's son had a bit of a drinking problem -- wrapped car after car after car around trees, utility poles, bridge abutments . . . . nothing that was said (or happened) alter the kid behavior . . .. . cars were all taken away, and he was consigned to riding a 150cc scooter.

you guessed it . . . two weeks later, he found an innocnet tree -- this time, though, he's paraluzed from the neck down . . .

I think the OP is right -- if he can't control himself, quitting riding is likely the best thing to do.

[county]

. .

I think the OP is right -- if he can't control himself, quitting riding is likely the best thing to do.

Really take exception to this.  Not at all manly.

[bomber]

Really take exception to this.  Not at all manly.

A man's got to know his limitations.

[staedtler]

(i know u said is too much hassle and all that)

do yerself a favor and do a trackday...after that u decide.

[falconati]

So many people have given good, tough love in this thread.

If you cannot control your emotions, try a bike that's harder to ride as fast.  Get a thumper or a small twin bike.  Ultimately though, any vehicle change will not solve your issue.  You need to work on your own attitude while you're riding.  I understand that sounds tough, and it is.  I've been working on my own for several years.  I've been able to slow myself down in blind corners or areas where I know traction is reduced; however there are still times when emotions make me ride in a fashion that I shouldn't.

It takes time, and working on your own reactions to situations.  

[satz]

similar problem and now ride a older 1st fz1 with a shorter screen. guess what at 75 mph at 6 2 the windblast lets me know to turn it down.
also i commute 45 miles a day. the car gives me 31 mpg and bike 38 so its so close i just drive if not perfect weather to commute.

its a tough call but i think when you ride a blackbird and such which gives me a cocoon at low speed its hard to realize that. i used to ride a 550 and trust me at 60 it felt like i am riding it like crazy. on the fz1 once i hit 75 mph my arms ,head and shoulder tell me to turn it down.

try a different ride.

[Skee]

actually the faster you ride the less time you spend on the road, so your chances of being in an accident are reduced

Logical solution - makes sense to me - beam me up Scotty.

[loadedmind]

Man, this one really speaks to me.  My speed triple almost dares me to slow down - it's so fun to ride.  It only sounds terrific when I'm haulin' ass.  For the most part, I pick my areas where 5-oh usually hangs.  My commute is 24 miles one way - 4-5 miles of freeway.  Most of the way is country back roads with no shoulders so I end up passing folks fairly often.  I really relate to your dilemma.  Truthfully, I'm not doing more than 15 over most of the way unless I'm stuck behind granny or Farmer Joe.  At least for me, I think my solution is a track day and have been saving for a bike I can beat to death on the track.  Heck, if nothing else, I'll realize my limits a bit more and learn better technique.  Anyway, I sold my ZX-14 because of this very reason and the fact that insurance was killing me.  I miss it.  Been looking at the 2012 ZX-14.  No, I say, bad, bad for you and bad for your pocket book.  Look at that pretty Triumph in the garage getting jealous just reading your thoughts.    Could you really put another '14 beside her and think she won't feel like chopped liver?  

So, all that said, I don't really know what I'd do in your shoes except get a beater bike that can corner half way decent and try a few track days.  I've only done one and it really didn't count as it was a Yamaha demo days at Barber, but holy COW it was a blast!  Have you ever done a track day before?  You OWE it to yourself to try just one and preferably on a bike you don't have to worry about scraping to really take advantage of your time out there.  

[Scratch33]

Anyone else have a similar predicament/dilemma?  Anyone been able to slow down on a Blackbird?  

[SoCalFJR]

You don't make it ten years unless you're good.  Cycles and airplanes kill off the young and stupid almost immediately. We ALL ride too fast and if we listened to wisdom would probably surround ourselves with airbags.  Let's face it, you're addicted like most of us, you need the moan from that air box to make your day..........if it's any comfort I've been riding 48 years and have never seen the inside of a cell, although I was a candidate every day on the commute in SoCal.  My main beef here in the IE is you can't drive ten miles in any direction without seeing a mile of brake lights after some dork has smacked the divider.  I need to ride the white line almost every trip out, I would be going nuts in a car.  Keep the bike its way better than a shrink.........................

[Silverbird]

I stop riding like that after several years of it. Guilt caused me to slow down knowing I could cause and accident and kill someones family member I don't even know.  Anyone who sees you riding like that thinks you are an irresponsible piece of sh** with no respect for the safety of others.  

Bottom line... get your arse on the racetrack.

[Roadhandlerxx]

Ride a Blackbird calmly ?  That's not what they're for !  When I ride my Bird to work , I arrive with a smile on my face .  Not so much when I drive a cage , just the opposite really .  From your post , I see that you not a squid , but a seasoned rider .  You are riding within your " skill sets " and enjoy it .  I would suggest that you focus on this reality and not let the close calls or " what-if's " cause you concern .  It's a scarey world out there , no matter what you ride .  Just MHO , Ken

[jfurf]

I can relate. Sometimes I catch myself doing some rather crazy riding in heavy traffic and later I ask myself if it was really worth it just to shave a minue or two.

I think the solution is mostly cognitive. The bike makes little difference. My bad habits have less to do with speed and more to do with slicing and dicing through bad traffic, so I think it's more about rewiring your brain to be more patient. Maybe try meditation or yoga or something like that.

[cbsnbiker]

a friend of the family's son had a bit of a drinking problem -- wrapped car after car after car around trees, utility poles, bridge abutments . . . . nothing that was said (or happened) alter the kid behavior . . .. . cars were all taken away, and he was consigned to riding a 150cc scooter.

you guessed it . . . two weeks later, he found an innocnet tree -- this time, though, he's paraluzed from the neck down . . .

That's a hell of a way to quit drinking.

(Or did he?)

[cbsnbiker]

Been riding nearly 10yrs now.  For the past 3 years it's been almost entirely commuting.....which is year round here in So Cal (sorry snowy states).  Great commute with twisties and little traffic.  
I just cannot ride my Blackbird calmly though.....never have been able to in the 4yrs I've owned it.  
I can't ride an upright bike either.....I've owned a few (cruisers, weestrom..etc). My back couldn't stand it after awhile.  Love the SPORT-touring ergo's.

But I'm starting to wonder how long I can cheat death or a bad accident.  I have a blast riding the XX but now just married and over 40, I'm wondering how smart my hyper-commutes are.  But I really have a hard time "cruising" on motorcycles.  I get bored....and wish I was in a car.

The reason I only use the bike for commuting and not on weekends except occasionally:
1-wife is not into riding....or riding 2up (and neither am I)
2-I run/train in the mornings on weekends.  By the time I get back from that, wife and I usually do something together or with our dogs..etc.
3-I don't want to invest the money or time into track days either.  With my work, running, home life....not much time.  And I really don't care that much about it to be honest.  

So I don't know.  I love my hyper-commute but much of it is how I can pretty much fly to work and pass everybody.    Even when I had a much less powerful SV650 I rode the same way.
Part of me thinks, if this is what 90% of what riding has become for me, then maybe I'm safer driving my car......which I drive MUCH MUCH slower.  I always worry about injuring myself and not being able to run....and how devastated I would be.  But not having the XX is also kind of unthinkable at the same time......although a bit less so now than in the past.

Anyone else have a similar predicament/dilemma?  Anyone been able to slow down on a Blackbird?  

Here are a few thoughts.

I appreciate your honesty. So, take the following in that context.

Your message makes it seem as if you have no control over the bike: it's the bike's fault that you ride so fast.

This is false. You are the reason why you ride so fast. The motorcycle is merely a tool. You are in control of the motorcycle. Claiming anything to the contrary is abdicating responsibility for your own actions.

You are the one who has to make the decision to take control of the motorcycle, and ride at what you feel is a safe and prudent speed, within the context of road and traffic conditions and local laws.

So no, I have not had the "predicament" you face. I choose how fast I ride.

Make a commitment to changing how you ride, then do it. If changing the bike you ride is part of that process, then do it.

As for a few of your other comments:

I *can* relate to your comments about riding posture. Cruisers are awful for my back. I'm more tolerant of an upright seating posture than you are, but I understand where you're coming from.

Have you tried a track day or, even better, a track course? They're fun. Maybe if you get your fast riding out of your system on the track, you'll enjoy the commute more when riding at a more sedate pace.

Try taking your bike out for a few non-commuter rides. See how you feel. Adjust your plans accordingly.

The reality is that you *will* be much safer in a car than on a motorcycle. There is just no getting around that fact. But there are ways to improve your odds on a motorcycle. You've started this process with your query.

[Hardware]

...you guessed it . . . two weeks later, he found an innocnet tree -- this time, though, he's paraluzed from the neck down . . .

That's a hell of a way to quit drinking.

(Or did he?)

Not to sound callous, but fuck it, he may as well commit fully to it at this point...

[county]

I can relate. Sometimes I catch myself doing some rather crazy riding in heavy traffic and later I ask myself if it was really worth it just to shave a minue or two.

I think you are fooling yourself if you think you do that stuff to save time.....For me that stuff is a real kick and I am as likely to do it running early as late..

[vfrrider]

Smaller displacement bike so you'll not be so tempted to "hyper-commute"?

Jsut an idea.

Larry
VFRrider

[arr2]

There has been some great advise on this thread. I rarely ride the speed limit on a open road and sometimes think that I need to tone it down. When this happens I get on the dirt bike. 2nd a 3rd gear through the trees on a enduro trail is much more of a rush than threading thru traffic. Safer too! Don't race enduro anymore, but still ride race pace at times. Compared to buddies that still race I haven't lost much.
I have also thought about a Bonneville or Thruxton for a slow down a smell the roses type of ride. I have demo'd many bike in the last 3 years and a 20 minute ride on a Bonnie stand out the most. Ok, the new Multistada  ranks right up there, but doesn't fit the budget.
I'm not sure something like a Ninja 250 would work for me. I would be wringing it neck every chance i got. You know, riding a slow bike at it's limit and all that. I would not respect the thing and get in trouble faster than I would riding my Duc.  I have got hurt on smaller XR type dirt bikes by way over riding the bikes chassis and suspension and getting in trouble and crashing.

[swimmer]

Get a motorcycle where the enjoyment of riding it does not revolve around going fast.  I.e. Versys - it's just nice to be riding, the motorcycle is not the focal point as it is with my CBR.  I stopped trying to ride as fast on the road once I started doing tracks days.  You can push your self and your bike in a controlled environment and once you do that you realize you can't get close to those limits on the street so its not tempting (for me).

My CBR is probably going up for sale.  It's fast, smooth, has crazy brakes but I still have ridden on the road since my last track day.  The Versys is so much better to ride on the road.

[Lawn Dart]

Track Days dude, Track Days.  It's the perfect place to get the aggression out so you don't need to do it on the street.

Trust me, Track Days WORK!  Once you start doing them you realize there's just no point in railing on the road and you tend to take it a lot easier on the street.

[staedtler]

... +1

[rollnhot]

Get a Buell Blast then you'll have a real reason to quit.  

[falconati]

 

[Calabrese]

I get bored....and wish I was in a car.

Wake up please, there's a cruiser waiting for you. Sport bikes can be boring unless you've got twisties and high speed sweepers on your daily drive. Try a comfortable sitting position(good seat) and just enjoying been in the wind, (No windshields) and quick acceleration off the line and some visceral V-Twin thunder. Just sayin

[cuoco1200gt]

+ 2 track days ultimate cure

[phatphil]

Imho, riding fast on the street doesn't take much skill.  The less you think about what can happen, the faster you can go.  Yeah, it's more dangerous riding faster, but why?  Continually asking this to myself usually keeps things sane.  I tell myself that when and if (probably never) I don't get excited just sitting on a cool bike and firing it up, then maybe the risk/benefit is questionable.  I also remind myself how fricken lucky to be able.  

A slower bike might work.  A faster one could too.  Things get pretty scary when you are moving so fast and the road (not people, cars, deer, dogs, blind drivers, etc) becomes literally difficult to judge and maintain traction.  There is so much shit at the sides of most roads that at very high speeds, an off likely won't be survivable or result in a few limbs lost and/or brain damage.  30mph could do.  130mph, will.  

Thing with a slower bike is that it takes longer to get to speed.  So the speed must be kept up.  With a hyper fast bike, you can get velocity up and down quicker.  Just gotta be a lot smarter cause of how much faster shit can happen.  So y gotta think and look way ahead.  Passing cars at over 50mph (closing) just doesn't give ya any time to do anything.  Someone changes lanes, pulls out or fucks up and you're dead.  Fuck that.  And it's not just people.  Dogs, cats, deer, sand, trees, rocks, whatever the fuck.  This can be done on ANY bike.

I dunno, I would think riding a XX would have you considering these things.  Maybe it's just not fast enough.  Maybe pipe, lower ratio, pc.  Pipe also gives more feel and character.  My 14 is wicked fast and power availability is so effortless.  It is a totally involvement of managing speed and grip.  Pretty fricken cool.  

And the thing is I probably don't ride faster then most on here.  Heck, I don't even like riding with others simply cause I don't want to have to go "their" speed.  Most places, I go much slower.  

It's pretty easy to spin up the rear on my bike and it's pretty big and heavy to slow and turn.  So I'm constantly thinking about losing the rear from accelerating or not enough room to slow.  So I actually tend to slow sooner and slow down more when someone can pull out or thru intersections.  I try and expect someone to blow a red or run a stop.  People fuck up.  Everyone does.  Losing life or limbs for that?  Not going to mindlessly let someone (or myself!) do that to me without giving myself a chance.

When the time and place presents itself, a simple roll of the wrist to the stop to redline and a couple gear changes warps time/space like I just can't experience anywhere else.  I get a "holy fuck" that's fast feeling that lasts for the whole week.  

Slow down or quit.  It's a state of mind.  On any bike....

 

[county]

Slow down or quit.  
  

I do not think those are the only options...

[Hardware]

Wake up please, there's a cruiser D-P thumper waiting for you. Sport bikes can be boring unless you've got twisties and high speed sweepers on your daily drive. Try a comfortable sitting position(good seat) and just enjoying been in the wind, (No windshields) and quick acceleration off the line and some visceral V-Twin big single thunder. Just sayin

FTFY.  Friends don't let friends ride cruisers...

[Mookie]

Step 1 - do some track days, it'll make your 'fast' commute seem even more boring but you'll get your whole need for speed fix taken care of

Step 2 - get a little supermoto. They're a blast to ride at nearly legal speeds and they just aren't capable of retarded speed.  You can hoon it everywhere and still be traveling at the speed limit, plus you can get a second dirt oriented wheel set and you've basically got a 2nd bike for a grand more.

[phatphil]

I do not think those are the only options...

Get a 250?

[stevent]

I just stopped buying high performance bikes. I went to a HD Superglide to a T 100 Bonnie to an HD Electraglide and now to a GS. Granted you can get in just as much trouble on a slow bike as a fast one, it's just that with slower bikes the performance isn't the big factor. Once you take that out of the equation then everything else falls into to place and I got back to just the sheer enjoyment of riding rather than feeling the need to drag the pegs and thrash every corner.

It worked for me anyway

[black hills]

I just stopped buying high performance bikes. I went to a HD Superglide to a T 100 Bonnie to an HD Electraglide and now to a GS. Granted you can get in just as much trouble on a slow bike as a fast one, it's just that with slower bikes the performance isn't the big factor. Once you take that out of the equation then everything else falls into to place and I got back to just the sheer enjoyment of riding rather than feeling the need to drag the pegs and thrash every corner.

It worked for me anyway

+1
 I have noticed I am happy at a much lower speed on the Adventure than on the CBR.

[ZuluHour]

Step 1 - do some track days, it'll make your 'fast' commute seem even more boring but you'll get your whole need for speed fix taken care of

winner!  I know the op said he wasn't into trackdays, especially b/c of the cost, but you will never know the limits of your bike until you really push it on the track.  Yes, it is a time & financial commitment (if you do several) but you only need to do a couple a year to get that fix.  I have found doing TD's has slowed me waay down on the street.  Trying to push the bike enough to just make the tires a little warm on the street is a let-down compared one twenty minute session on track, not to mention the increased risks of spirited riding on the street.

Not wanting to sound like a complete track-addict since I still commute occasionally on my RC51, but if you're over 40 and haven't even done one trackday you are truly missing out on a great experience that only sportbikes can deliver.

[Robus]

My advice would be sell it.  Either buy something slower like others have suggested or step away altogether.  If you think you're an unsafe rider, you probably are.  If you're aware that your riding is unsafe but can't control it, then give it up.

Motorcycles and compulsive behavior don't go together.  Riding safely takes judgment, discipline and good habits.  You seem to have the judgment to recognize that you are taking poor risks, but lack the discipline and habits to do anything about it.  I'd walk away.  Crashing sucks.

[servicerifle]

Buy a real dirt bike (not a dual sport). Give up some time on weekends to ride off road. The dirt bike will solve all your problems. You'll crash and get hurt but not killed or run over by a truck. The Blackbird will seem boring and you'll be too sore to ride it.  


I think the advice that you are bored with your "regular riding" is probably true otherwise you wouldn't be trying to make it more exciting and risky.

I was thinking the same thing, and a good dual sport could do the same.  Nothing like a face full of dirt to adjust your riding.  

[cbsnbiker]

FWIW, the OP hasn't been back online since an hour and a half after he started this thread.

[Papa Lazarou]

FWIW, the OP hasn't been back online since an hour and a half after he started this thread.

I saw that too.  

[county]

FWIW, the OP hasn't been back online since an hour and a half after he started this thread.

And that is relevant how?

[boogeyman]

And that is relevant how?

Maybe he had to go to work?

[mikexup]

Take a vacation to central Ohio for one week. Spend the first couple of minutes riding at the speed you described, while the deer, turkey, raccoon and every other type of animal mother nature can throw at you tries to play dodge em with you and your bike. The other 6 1/2 days you'll be slowing down guaranteed.

[blakebird]

Anyone else have a similar predicament/dilemma?  Anyone been able to slow down on a Blackbird?  

I've been riding 44 yrs and had no trouble riding my '99 XX within reason....same went for my ZX-14, CBR1000RR, etc.

Pick your time and place and it's no big deal to keep it real

[tvpierce]

FWIW, the OP hasn't been back online since an hour and a half after he started this thread.

Maybe he's sitting in a jail cell after being arrested for Criminal Speeding!  

[dr dralion]

I'd agree with most folks here: buying a slower bike with less of a faring will help you feel the speed at a lower velocity.  Personally, I'd recommend the Yamaha WR205X Hypermotard.  Yah, a 250 sounds small, but upright seating and super-light weight will make you use the whole throttle 80% of the time.  Perhaps the seating position will not be good for your back, but just a thought.
Kevin

[David Morrow]

Really good, consistent advice so far.

When I'm driving my 350Z, I know that I go too fast. When I'm driving my S.O's Subaru Outback, I really slowdown and enjoy myself. Not on purpose mind you, it's just the vehicle and what feel comfortable. Go for a different bike; you'll enjoy the ride more and be safer doing it.

[Hunter]

With org's like STT and Track Tactics the excuse of not doing track days is pretty lame. If you think you are fast do a track day, you most likely find your driving more like a ham fisted squid on a bike than actually "riding". Spend some time with one of the control riders and your skill will go up exponentially and you will find riding is far more pleasurable at any speed.

http://www.tracktactics.org/

http://www.sportbiketracktime.com/

[skater69]

FWIW, the OP hasn't been back online since an hour and a half after he started this thread.

You're right.  I wasn't.  Thanks for all the advice.  I actually have only commuted once since I posted this.  Mainly b/c I don't get motivated to take the time to suit up for 45 degree weather commutes any more.
Come spring/summer/fall......I'll most likely commute most of the time for 9 mos or decide I don't really care.
Either way, I'll still keep the Blackbird for now.  I give it a little exercise on the weekends but whatever it is, I could often care less about riding it for leisure.
It's just not that comfortable to me.......I prefer riding it with a purpose, like my 20-30 min commute.

"Comfortable bikes".....like cruisers or standards kill my lower back......always.  The Blackbird while not comfy really never annoys my lower back.
So she stays for now.  Thanks again for everyone's replies.

[cbsnbiker]

Welcome back!  

What aspect of the Blackbird is uncomfortable to you? It's entirely possible that a simple mod could improve it.

Or do you mean that just riding in general is making you uncomfortable?

I wish it were 45 degrees here. I'm looking out the window at snow on the streets.  

[skater69]

Welcome back!  

What aspect of the Blackbird is uncomfortable to you? It's entirely possible that a simple mod could improve it.

Or do you mean that just riding in general is making you uncomfortable?

I mean it's just not a really "comfortable" bike.  It's ok. It's fine for commuting but after an hour or so I'm sort of done. I have VFR bars and for a sportbike it's comfortable.

[cbsnbiker]

Would an aftermarket seat help, or some other ergonomic adjustments?

[Kneescrubber]

You should probably just quit. We already have enough drama queens here.

[Orson]

You should probably just quit. We already have enough drama queens here.

Guzzi bashing reported to moderators.

[Bad Dad]

First post: I get bored....and wish I was in a car.  Last post: I could often care less about riding it for leisure.  Sell motorcycle, get in car.