"86km/hr down Col de la Madeleine toward Albertville, France. That was this August (2004) on a tandem with a BOB trailer loaded for camping for a month. We were near the top above treeline on one of the few straight stretches. The tandem has wide tires and no disc brakes."
While touring I generally keep it below 60kmh on descents as there is no need to risk anything for nothing. I have been descending down a hill at around 60kmh when a huge 18 wheeler came by and the wind he created had me and my BOB trailer swaying crazily. That has taught me to err on the side of caution.
While out training one day in Alberqurque on a straight 10%-12% gradient and with a wicked tailwind I hit 100kmh. Thats sans BOB and with a racing bike.
From all my years racing (12) I have never matched that speed again. Hitting around 85kmh is impressive. To do that fully loaded and with a BOB? Down col de la Madeleine? I have raced that climb and know it a little. That is really impressive!!
Or crazy.... :-D