Wrong Side Of The Road

I don't think riding Practices have changed that much at all, if at all, the only thing that has changed is, the amount of traffic, amount of people, amount of houses, and driveways, and certainly an explosion of Pedal Bikes, an even bigger explosion of pot holes, bigger explosion still of speed limits
Some could also argue that some who have done extra training suddenly think they are far better riders, and drivers than everyone else, and know everything, and everyone else knows nothing.
as you said there are 2 ways to look at it

 

With the exception of one or two personal remarks this has been an entertaining read ...For my two penneth ....I have witnessed and on occasion I have used off siding how ever ....on occasion it has not worked as the other three of the back four have been too slow allowing the striker to get round the back and fire a shot into the top corner leaving the keeper stranded........

 

Seriously though i have seen it used and only when confident do i use it myself ....There are those that can and do ...There are those that can and don't. ...There are those that can't but try....and there are those that can't and won't. ....as most have said .....its all about enjoying your ride yourway......and safely for you and those around you.

 

Interesting - IMO, Individual solo riding is very much up to personal preferences based on confidence, training, experience and conditions. Riding in a group however, i feel we all need to try and be aware of how our technique/style might impact on and affect those we are riding with. I ride quite differently in a group than i do when solo.

I dislike having to worry, or being distracted about what someone else is doing or might do, whether they are in front or behind me. Although i occasionally ride in large groups with unfamiliar riders i much prefer the company of those i trust. I have no issues with offsiding and occasionally do it myself if in the mood. I like and welcome any comments about my riding and will comment to others about theirs if i feel the need, what they make of it is up to them. Not everyone has the capacity to truly look at themselves honestly, but how else are we to learn if not to discuss and reflect on what we do?

Bollocks - sorry i have tourettes

 

Roadwart, Do you think the general Practice / Principles of how to ride have changed that much then?

 

Tom, that main reason like pretty all courses etc. now days Health and Safety issues, Companies, and organisations are scared of being sued, and Cash orientated these courses like many are like speed cameras to you

 

I saw Ian doing some of this yesterday - he looked safe and in control. I think like most things, if you do it right it's ok. I haven't found myself doing it because I don't know much about doing it safely. I guess if you're on a straight stretch of road, with an ability to return to your own lane in the distance you can see is clear, then using the other lane to improve your view and understanding of what the road ahead does is ok. Similarly I can understand the arguments against, such as how might a car driver react if they round a bend and find you facing them - even if there's plenty of time for you to react, I guess it's hard to tell what they might do. I'm a bit on the fence with it. Sacrificing safety for position is never good but as I say Ian certainly appeared both proficient and safe.

 

I wouldn't recommend anyone doing it without the correct training and I never offside on a left hand bend. Thanks Rob. All I asked for at the beginning of this thread was for members not to keep saying I ride on the WRONG side of the road when they do not understand why I do it.

 

I gotta take my hat off to you Offsiding on a right hand bend ?...I'm lost for words...


PS. This is said in jest, should anyone be over sensitive and take offence...

 

I thought it was because you are old and senile ?

 

I think we can safely assume that should have read right hand bend