If the problem presents itself you just have to do it.A lot of our roads here in the NorthEast have no paved breakdowns and it is usually soft sand.Good place to practice.In traffic is another thing,just practice your own way,you never knowwhat you will find out on the ribbon of asphalt

 

You made the right choice for *your ride*. That's all that matters.

 

If you are uncomfortable about any conditions avoid tackling them until you practice practice practice... ie. parking lot with 2x4 crossovers.

 

When in doubt - don't

 

I would have stayed put also. However, this (in quotes) is good advise.

 

Lots of road repairs here with those lips and no rounded edges.
I go to the far side of my lane and hit it with the best angle possbile.
Little wiggle and all is OK. Going off actually is worse, at least for me.

 

You did the right thing. You have to cross those rises at an angle and if traffic is too heavy to do that comfortably, stay put. We had a guy killed near here a couple of weeks ago doing exactly that. Tried to change lanes in a paving project and went down.

 

What you saw is referred to as an "edge trap". If you were to get your front tire up against it parallel or at a slight angle it can cause you to lose your balance with the motorcyle and you will go down. Crossing with at least a 45 degree angle or more is the only safe way to manuver if you need to get to the other side. Metal plates laid across holes in the pavement, curbing, and often times asphalt edges along the shoulder of the road are other edge traps..

 

Wow, I didnt know it actually had a name, ("edge trap"). I did consider changing lanes just for the experience of seeing what would happen, but I decided not to with the traffic flow the way it was (50and braking in my lane and 70+ in the fast lane) with heavy traffic. At the right angle... no problem. I live in the country on a few acres and bumpsdont bother me much. I take the beast off the pavement about 1/2 mile from the house anyway and at my place I end up riding it all over my property depending on where the shade is when I park.
Thanks for the responses. It's interesting to see all the different comfort levels of the other riders. One thing I've learned in 3 years and 25,000 miles is that a riders comfort level doesnt mean the same as his skill level. That can begood and/or bad.
Bryan

 

You said it yourself it was only 4-5 miles.If it were 20 or soo I would've considered it but for 4-5 miles I'll just go slow and look DAMN good doin' it.