Technique Question

**nickt** · #1 3 Apr 2004

Hiya,
I have a question about the correct technique about riding through shallow, slippery fords. I'm used to riding in the UK rain or the nice, dry summer in the US.

Last year I was riding some dirt road in TN, and came across some very slippy water crossings. They were only 5-6 feet wide and just a few inches deep, but the bottoms were covered in the very slippy green mossy stuff.

I tried going through fast - scary as there's no traction, and going through slow - scary as when you put your foot down it doesn't get any grip.

I'm puzzled to know the correct techniquie for these sorts of water crossings? I was on my F650 running TKC80s.

Any ideas or suggestions?

Cheers,
Nick.

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Nick Taylor
www.exerro.com
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1996 BMW F650
1996 300 TDi 90
1997 NAS D90 ST #685
1998 Camel Trophy 110 CT47

**Oletimer** · #2 6 Apr 2004

This is a valid point, the short answer to which must be: First, look to see whats in front of you. ie: if you can see the vegetation covering the bottom (or the stones) it is almost sure to be hazardous. I think speed can help in certain situations tho I don't think speed is the only answer.
Slow speed can be just as hazardous when consideration is given to the loaded bike, once it starts to lose traction nothing is there to stop it sliding - so you and the bike get wet!
I don't know if anyone can give you a certain positive answer to deal with this problem mainly because the problem will be different at every crossing.
Maybe having a look first (to judge the best path) followed by a not-too-hasty blast?
Cheers George

**Grant Johnson** · #3 7 Apr 2004

As noted, it's probably different every time.

IMHO "correct" is whatever doesn't dump you in the drink.

AND your own riding ability makes a huge difference in "survival" technique. A truly awesome rider would do it standing on the pegs and never have a problem. A good rider, sitting and ready to paddle, hoping there is enough traction to save the day. Average rider prepares to get wet...

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Grant Johnson

Seek, and ye shall find.
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One world, Two wheels.
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com

**nickt** · #4 9 Apr 2004

Thanks guys,
I think assuming no big rocks, straight and steady seems to be the way.

I'll let you know how wet I get!

Cheers,
Nick.

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Nick Taylor
www.exerro.com
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1996 BMW F650
1996 300 TDi 90
1997 NAS D90 ST #685
1998 Camel Trophy 110 CT47

**Cameron** · #5 10 Apr 2004

Hi Guys,
Great question, There are lots of these shallow concrete water crossings in Thailand. All of them have that snotty greasy green slime on the bottom (when you can see it). After much research I found that there is no sure way through, but doing it on a borrowed bike helps, as long as the owner is not there...
Cheers, Peter

P.S. In clear water those "little looking dips" at the concrete edge can be very deep...