Originally Posted by monk

Another thing I always see is cars/trucks that as they pass they really gun the engine . . . I wish I had all the gas they waste passing me . . . I'd never have to buy gas again. I guess I'm supposed to be impressed that they can pass a cyclist?

Originally Posted by eb314

I've discovered that no matter how fast you ride your bike, cars will always pass you as fast as they can.

Since I've been training for the racing season, I've gotten a lot more in shape and can hold fairly good speed lately. So the other day I decided to ride up and down a stretch of 25 mph road that's about 2 miles long and all flat, and that I wouldn't go below the speed limit. So I'm riding along at about 26-27 and a car comes flying by me. Then another, and another. So I turn around at the end of the road, take a rest, then continue. This time I'm going about 30-33 and cars are still flying by me at probably 40-50. When I drive on this road in my car everyone goes about 25-30.

Drivers hate the idea of people on bikes so much, that they'll floor the gas to pass no matter what speed they're already going. This is at least true in Columbus, Ohio. When I get stronger, I'll try the experiment again at higher speeds.

edit: This is a 4 lane road by the way, so there's no need to pass quickly for safety's sake.