The Sublime Perfection of Riding 40-45 mph / 64-72 kph

[Stichill_imp]

Traffic was really light everywhere I went on this evening's ride, affording me the opportunity to dial back the speed a bit to run 40-45 mph / 64-72 kph without the bother of tailgaters.

The character of the ride changed from being swiftly conveyed past the scenery, to being transported through the scenery. It was quieter, more immersive. There's more time for the senses to perceive and for the brain to appreciate.

I thought maybe going slower would be even better. Nope. At 35 mph / 56 kph, the scene drags and there's insufficient progress for the mind to be fully entertained.

It's definitely something I will be doing more of as the opportunities present themselves.

[The A-man]

I agree, perfect speed to "smell the roses "!

[GoldOxide_imp]

Similarly, the landscape - even dreaded urban wasteland - looks so much better from a scooter's point-of-view.

[Stichill_imp]

Similarly, the landscape - even dreaded urban wasteland - looks so much better from a scooter's point-of-view.

I think prowling the urban jungle on a scooter sounds pretty interesting. There's a lot of history in the brownfield sites of old factories, railroads, company headquarters, etc.

[GoldOxide_imp]

Similarly, the landscape - even dreaded urban wasteland - looks so much better from a scooter's point-of-view.

I think prowling the urban jungle on a scooter sounds pretty interesting. There's a lot of history in the brownfield sites of old factories, railroads, company headquarters, etc.

I think prowling the urban jungle on a scooter sounds pretty interesting. There's a lot of history in the brownfield sites of old factories, railroads, company headquarters, etc.
I would be in agreement with you. A hop 'n' go 153 cc Honda PCX, capable of up to 112 km/h (sustained), 1.9L/100 km in the city (2.4L/100 regional roads), quiet, extremely small carbon footprint, built-in storage, even including a helmet, ultra tight turning radius, plush suspension, some meaningful protection from the elements, super low insurance, ... what's not to like?

I suppose if one dislikes the wind-up behaviour of a CVT, then it can be annoying for a motorcyclist. However, once "wound up enough" (sorta like at 3rd gear), they are a blast.

But slow they can do real well.

[Cormanus]

I agree Stichill, although 50 mph (80 kph) is my upper limit. A lovely speed for moseying.

[Stichill_imp]

I agree Stichill, although 50 mph (80 kph) is my upper limit. A lovely speed for moseying.

The Force is strong with this one.

[Jfro5687_imp]

Completely different bike obviously but I read this all the time about the RE Himalayan. Owners who embrace the ‘performance’ for what it is all say the same thing, going more slowly is actually rather pleasant.

[redbirds_imp]

40 to 50 mph on a country backroad is a pure delight. Having the NC750X, I've rediscovered the joy of a light motorcycle with just enough power. That 250 is a beaut Sitchill.

[Rocky_imp]

This post made me smile.
In this province we have plenty of winding coastal roads that are not busy and perfect for this style of cruising. You can't beat it for just having a relaxing ride. If anyone catches up, I give them plenty of space and wave them by.
I frequently go out early in the morning and almost have the roads to myself once I'm free of the city. Somewhere along the way I'll often stop for breakfast - although this past year I have breakfast at home so I don't have to stop (except maybe for gas) or deal with people.