Speed...
Road Warrior
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,337
Likes: 3
From: Houston, Texas
That straining you think you felt was probably the bike revving high in 4th gear, next time when you get 60-65 mph, pop it int 5th, bike should rev lower and smooth out, then get it up to 70-75 and enjoy the ride.
Intermediate
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 40
Likes: 0
+ 1 on the value of experience...
... you will get used to the wind buffeting over time. Ear plugs or a full helmet may help in the short term.
But, as you get used to it, please don't speed! Speed limits are there to say, "You are only human and can react only so fast. Catastrophic situations can arise when least expected and it only takes one mistake...".
But, as you get used to it, please don't speed! Speed limits are there to say, "You are only human and can react only so fast. Catastrophic situations can arise when least expected and it only takes one mistake...".
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 2,228
Likes: 3
From: New Port Richey FL
i've been riddin for over 5 years and with my current set up i even need to slow down every once in a while, the wind can be brutal at times.
like everyone has said, just relax and don't push yrself, that way you'll be riddin years from now at any speeds ya need to be
like everyone has said, just relax and don't push yrself, that way you'll be riddin years from now at any speeds ya need to be
Road Master
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 765
Likes: 13
From: Bremen, GA
i've been riddin for over 5 years and with my current set up i even need to slow down every once in a while, the wind can be brutal at times.
like everyone has said, just relax and don't push yrself, that way you'll be riddin years from now at any speeds ya need to be
like everyone has said, just relax and don't push yrself, that way you'll be riddin years from now at any speeds ya need to be
Cruiser
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 221
Likes: 0
+1000
I used to not be comfortable at all on the interstate, now it is just another road. It will happen for you too. dont rush it, ride within your abilities.
I used to not be comfortable at all on the interstate, now it is just another road. It will happen for you too. dont rush it, ride within your abilities.
Tourer
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 422
Likes: 0
From: Connecticut
I think higher speeds to a beginner is all about having trust and confidence in the machine. When I think back - and it still happens to this day - when on the super slab turning 70 the mind can introduce fear. WHat if the front end fails, what if a tire blows, what if, what if, what if. With some good miles under your belt, you gain confidence and skill - but never let that guard down - ever.
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Tourer
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 447
Likes: 1
From: St. Louis
Amen To That
I also rode side streets and main arteries for a while when I first got my bike. It takes a little experience to gain trust in yourself and your machune, but don't ever trust the other drivers on the road to be watching for you. There is a big difference between relaxing and letting your guard down. Whenyou feel more comfortable with yorr riding abilities take a short trip on the highway at a time when there is little other traffic, then a little longer until you become more comfortable ot highway speeds.
I think higher speeds to a beginner is all about having trust and confidence in the machine. When I think back - and it still happens to this day - when on the super slab turning 70 the mind can introduce fear. WHat if the front end fails, what if a tire blows, what if, what if, what if. With some good miles under your belt, you gain confidence and skill - but never let that guard down - ever.
Thread Starter
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Intermediate
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 37
Likes: 0
From: Connecticut
Thanks I really appreciate the advice from you all! I definitely do not push past my limits...I ride very defensively so far..I was just curious if what I was noticing around 60mph was normal for my skill level (newbie) or if the sporty had inherent handling issues at higher speeds