Emergency Braking.

[joebielski]

Well I had my first encounter with a squirrell the other weekend. I was riding northbound on a somewhat quiet street going about 40km per hour when a squirrell ran out in front of me. And right away my rider safety course stuff kicked in. It was a narrow street and a truck was heading southbound so swerving to either direction was impossible. Knowing that no one was behind me I hit the brakes quite hard but controlled. The rear did lock up but I managed to keep the bike straight and true. Managed to stop about a foot in front of the little bugger!!!! And he just sat there, and I sat there, but both of us were is one piece.....YAY

[bonehead]

Try the horn next time, see if that does'nt get 'em out of the way.

[Water Warrior 2]

Amazing what proper training does. Also keep in mind you are allowed to run over anything small enough to eat in one meal.

[joebielski]

LOL, I never thought of the horn to be honest.............. :lol:

[Water Warrior 2]

I would rely on the brakes first and then the horn unless you have adequate time to apply both safely.

[Skunkhome]

Horn is the last thing you should be hitting in an energency situation.

[joebielski]

Yeah, I definitely didn't have enough time to hit the horn while doing the emergency breaking with the rear locked up. I was just glad I didn't run the little guy over. I like squirrels :) Speaking of horns, I've hear people putting on old GM or Mopar horns that sound all loud and crazy. I might do that for poops, and giggles :)

[Water Warrior 2]

A louder horn is always a big plus when it comes to your safety. Just remember to use a relay to power the horn or you may toast the horn button and wiring.
Both of our bikes had/have a Stebel Air Horn to wake up sleepy drivers and silly wildlife. I have another for the truck that is still waiting to be installed.