Commuting - Average speed

"Average speed" is a concept that we cyclists are all too familiar with. We fly down hills and crawl up them again (at least, that's me!) We are affected by headwinds and tailwinds.

We know if we want to get there faster, we have to boost our average overall speed.

"Average speed" seems to be a concept foreign to most motorists. They fly up to the next traffic light, then wait.

Perhaps if automobile speedometers were equipped with an constant "average speed" display, they might change their habits.

:confused:

Then again...

(Thanks to Allister for provoking this thought.)

Pete,

Know what ya mean!

When I drive to work, the route to & from the office has a pair of one-way streets where the traffic lights are timed for the 25 MPH speed limit.

I can't begin to count the number of times I've had someone blast by me in the next lane, only to come to a screeching halt at the upcoming (red) light. Meanwhile I keep cruising along right at the speed limit, and pass them when the light goes green and they're just starting out again.

Do they learn? Of course not! We play "leapfrog" all the way down the street, until I make my turn.

(Shakes head in amazement)
SteveF

Originally posted by SteveF
I can't begin to count the number of times I've had someone blast by me in the next lane, only to come to a screeching halt at the upcoming (red) light. Meanwhile I keep cruising along right at the speed limit, and pass them when the light goes green and they're just starting out again.


I do this all the time on my bike (i.e. play leapfrog with the 'blasting' cars).

I've never understood why drivers do it, but then, I've never understood why they drive at all anyway, so who am I to comment.

Chris