Originally Posted by
bigtea
Ignore those who think you are asking a dumb question. There is no reason or rule that says one must achieve maximum speeds on descents in order to enjoy road cycling. I used to, but don't anymore because of an accident I had last year. My personal speed limit is 25mph and then only if the road is clear, clean, straight and without traffic.
There are two kinds of cyclists...those who have had an accident and those who will. If you are lucky your accident(s) will not result in permanent injury.
I must be damned lucky...or maybe the majority of the accidents that most cyclists will have are usually pretty minor. Get back on that horse, pal. Of course you don't have to go max speed down a hill, but riding the brakes to stay below some arbitrary speed that you pulled out of you ass as 'safe' isn't the brightest move either. Let the bike take you, modulate the brakes as necessary to stay within your comfort level.