Originally Posted by
dutret
It's not particularly safe to ride any bike at 45+ mph.
WRONG. Have you ever done any amount of descending in the mountains?
Its all about proper technique and having the bike in good shape.
on the bike:
-machined rims and front and rear brakes are mandatory. They should be adjusted all the way up until the pads are just shy of rubbing the rim, this gives you maximum braking power. You are going to need it.
-Tires should be in good shape (no cuts, sidewall rubs) and at high pressure. A blow out is your biggest danger.
-headset has to have NO slop.
-those are the major ones that could really f'you, but generally everything should be in top order.
technique:
-wear a helmet (goes without saying)
-stay in the drops. it gives you the most leverage on the brake levers and your hands are least likely to be bounced off from this position.
-keep your weight further back. If and when you have to grab a fistful of brake, this will keep you from flipping. By putting the weight on your legs and butt instead of your hands, you can absorb shock from potholes and such better. Keep the arms loose. like brickblocks mentioned, try to float over the sadlde.
-look ahead for sand and pebbles. don't steer or brake, just coast through it if it cant be avoided. You may need to brake sooner than usual for a turn so you don't wash out.
-Its a good idea to ride up the way you plan on coming down and make mental notes of the conditions along the way. You don't want any surprises at 40+MPH.
Its a blast, and really not that dangerous if you know what you are doing.