I don't know. Probsbly a combo of both? Sorry to hear that. I hope you are ok. I slow to like 5mph when I cross tracks that are wet.
2011-12-10 02:04:22
10
Crossing wet railroad tracks
I ate pavement crossing the railroad tracks on Neville St. when it was raining. I was going really slow and was expecting them to be slippery and still ate pavement. Is it because I use slick tires or is there a correct way to cross when wet.
2011-12-10 01:56:59
Cross perpendicular to the tracks. You shouldn't hit them at any angle other than straight on.
2011-12-10 02:13:06
Also when tracks are wet just roll neutrally over. No pedaling, no braking. Either one can cause the wheel to break traction and then you're screwed.
2011-12-10 03:34:16
Going too slow can work against you, more time on the rails means more time to slip.
Slow down, square up to the tracks, let go of your brakes, go.
2011-12-10 03:39:57
+1 let go of the brakes. I guess I naturally do that without thinking. I stand up and let the bike move freely under me
2011-12-10 11:36:35
"STRIKE FIRST. STRIKE HARD. NO MERCY"
- Sensei John Kreese
2011-12-10 17:59:10
I take them at speed, perpendicularly. Less time for the tires to slip.
2011-12-10 18:51:54
I didn't get hurt but the pavement was really salty that day. I was probably on the brakes when I crossed, my pride was hurt and I hate crashing in front of drivers. On driver rolled down his window and said this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rX7wtNOkuHo
2011-12-10 23:53:06
If I don't just bunny-hop the damn things, I get some weight off of the front wheel by sitting up and straightening my arms. Also, some may disagree, but I say keep your arms loose - don't lock them. This is a skill I adapted from years of motocross racing - any time front wheel traction is an issue I'll typically shift some weight to the back wheel and loosen my grip on the bars. I also agree with the comments above re: hitting them straight on. Also, make sure your bike is not leaning to one side or the other when you hit the rails - that can cause the same problem as hitting them at an angle.
2011-12-11 17:12:28