Again we have some sad news regarding another motorcycle fatality in our local region. While this is always a painful thing to discuss in the media, it does bring to the fore one of the main reasons for the formation of MATES - to assist with the promotion of greater rider safety on our roads through the actions and advice of our peers.
Regardless to say however that another needless death has occurred, and a reminder that road conditions play a definite part in how we use the roads. And my condolences go out to the family of Mr Palmer.
You can see the article here (this opens in a new window to the GC Bulletin article) and the respective debate regarding cause. Be sure to read the comments by readers after the story, and of course we would be interested to hear of your experiences with Road Conditions or advice on what other major bike routes have dangers we need to be aware of.
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Road surface conditions are a very serious matter that needs looking into in Queensland. In particular the variance in said conditions from Council to Council, Shire to Shire…
Just ride out towards Boonah to see the difference.
On the stretch between beauy and Boonah, the road surface changes quite dramatically about 1/3 of the way to Boonah, at about the border of the old Boonah Shire. The Beaudesert side is quite abysmal in spots. Now, why when beauy had about 3 times the population, and an enormously greater intake of rates because of that, couldn’t they mantain the roads to at least the standard of the Boonah Shire.
I think the time is long overdue where a Nationwide, or at least statewide standard of road maintenance is implemented. There has been enough fees and charges levied on us all to ensure a high standard. Where is the money being used though?
Having said all that, it is up to us, as riders, and road users in general to ride to the conditions. If the road is crappy, then ride more carefully. Unexpected potholes are someting that can surprise the best of us, and i can only say that if we adhere to rules of survival like riding line, speed and looking well ahead, then we can certainly minimise the side efffects of these hinderances to a smooth ride.
Please don’t ever be frightened to approach your local council with reports, pictures as well if possible, of road problems. It is in their interests to keep the roads up to scratch.
Comment by Craig — Jun 6 @ 9:48 pm