Interstate Riding
Tourer
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 252
Likes: 50
From: Georgia
I like long distance riding/touring. While I prefer secondary highways and by-ways, it's seems inevitable that I have to do time on the interstates. Perhaps because I'm behind schedule, or more generally, that it is the most efficient way for me to get through a major metro area.
While I could find a way to bypass a Chicago, Houston or Jacksonville, if those places lie on my general path, it is often hugely time consuming to navigate alternate routes. I try to time my travel to avoid peak traffic hours, then suck it up and go. While guys will debate the best strategy, mine for years has been to travel 3-5 mph faster than prevailing traffic in order to minimize cars overtaking me on either side. In Atlanta on I-285, I move to the left lane and travel fast enough to stay in that lane without backing traffic up. While I'll get the occasional car that wants to go much faster than me, (and I move over and let 'em by), I can generally get around with little difficulty even during heavy periods. It requires me to stay quite alert and I wouldn't want to do it all day...
On the other hand, there is a joy to be experienced running down a western US interstate with your cruise legally set at 85 mph.
So, for me, interstates are just part of the ride....
While I could find a way to bypass a Chicago, Houston or Jacksonville, if those places lie on my general path, it is often hugely time consuming to navigate alternate routes. I try to time my travel to avoid peak traffic hours, then suck it up and go. While guys will debate the best strategy, mine for years has been to travel 3-5 mph faster than prevailing traffic in order to minimize cars overtaking me on either side. In Atlanta on I-285, I move to the left lane and travel fast enough to stay in that lane without backing traffic up. While I'll get the occasional car that wants to go much faster than me, (and I move over and let 'em by), I can generally get around with little difficulty even during heavy periods. It requires me to stay quite alert and I wouldn't want to do it all day...
On the other hand, there is a joy to be experienced running down a western US interstate with your cruise legally set at 85 mph.
So, for me, interstates are just part of the ride....
Last edited by GaJayhawk; Dec 5, 2015 at 11:59 AM.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 2,784
Likes: 52
From: Highlands, Texas
I suppose I should rephrase my question. I was in a position where I needed to make some miles in a hurry as I had already enjoyed the back roads too long. My experience was uncomfortable and scary as hell. Granted I was on the edge of Houston. Does it get better with time? I suspect it would be a little more comfortable without the crosswinds. It is impossible to travel around here without at least some interstate travel and HEAVY traffic.
I also ride around Houston. We live on the East side so when I need to cross Houston I hit the Beltway. Riding the inner freeways also depends on the time of day, before 9a and after 3p you're deep in work traffic. Plus it seems no matter what freeway you need, there's major construction going on.
Club Member
Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 25,202
Likes: 30,162
When I first started riding on freeways I was intimidated and felt very vulnerable and exposed. That goes away in time. I take the freeway to get someplace in the fastest manner. Back roads are always much more fun.
Last edited by Sarah93003; Dec 13, 2015 at 11:07 PM.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 28,842
Likes: 16,582
From: Wisconsin, USA
Much better with a windshield, and even better with a fairing. Stay out of the turbulence, created by semis.
And haul *** when you pass them. You don't want to be near them if the tire shreds.
And haul *** when you pass them. You don't want to be near them if the tire shreds.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 3,673
Likes: 606
From:
just a guess, but i would say over 90% of wisconsin interstate is rural. i like interstate travel because it's easier and the traffic isn't bad at all and the scenery is pretty good.
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 13,456
Likes: 10,452
From: Sunshine State
Interstate riding skill is a must for any biker. I know I prefer the backroads but I also know it's convenient to get around. I live in the country but I have lived Houston, Tampa, Miami, Atlanta, Baltimore/DC, etc., need I continue?
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 5,894
Likes: 1,908
From: East Coast, USA
Start saving your change (or rather your dollar bills).
Some Interstate highways now free to travelers could soon become toll roads....
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/12/04/us...d-changes.html
Some Interstate highways now free to travelers could soon become toll roads....
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/12/04/us...d-changes.html