akmal's bike park

akmal's bike park

Thursday 24 June 2010

RTW: traffic lights - know the sequence

do we have this in Malaysia?
 
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In a form 3 Bahasa Malaysia class (that's a very, very long time ago), a fellow classmate chipped in a possibly the most creative line I have ever heard in response to the teacher's request for us to pen a poem about 'The City':
 
(translated)
vehicles are controlled by lights
 
True enough, we (civilised lot who do abide) would stop at the traffic light when it's red, and go when it's green. I'll leave to your own interpretation for yellow; but for me it depends on the situation whether it's a 'slow down and ready to stop' or 'you still have time to beat the red light'.
 
I've mentioned yesterday that the stops at traffic lights affect your flow. Thus, it is important for us to know (and remember) the flow sequence at the traffic lights that we frequently come across. It ensures not only a good flow for our ride, but also our safety.
 
The sequence usually doesn't change; hence we can anticipate how long the time that we have for a rest when it's red while waiting for it to change to green.
 
There's also a timing for the lights to change, but not necessary for us to keep track of it. Enough with being aware that the green light on the other side has changed to yellow, thus signalling for us to get ready for our green light to glow.
 
Knowing the sequence of light change dictates how much power we need to exert if we anticipate that we could make it through. It's also a big help in deciding whether to lower the gear before reaching the stop to ensure a lighter start afterwards; or to stay with the big ring and get across with steady speed.
 
Above all, however, do be careful when crossing even when the light is green, for there are always uncivilised idiots running around ramming the red light. Perhaps they're being optimistic thinking 'I still have time to beat the red light' although circumstances are not permitting.
 
To some, still, they're not bound by the rule of the light. Perhaps plainly color blind?
 
Ride safe.
Have a good day!
 
...kenderaan dikawal oleh lampu
 
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