|
You may remember my comments in re speed choice on my FE thread. I think I characterized 58/9-mph as the "fast" economy speed (GPS correction). 60-mph was where one really starts to see a decline. 58-62 is a good range for highway work. This past month it has been where I've travelled. Speed limiter and radar proximity device. Maintaining space is the safety key, and I may go several 400-450/mile days without passing anyone.
Higher than 62 and one is mixing with big trucks. At the speed limit one is trapped by four wheelers. In each, lane changing (steering) and brake plus acceleration events become more commonplace. So it's not just air resistance.
Lower than 63-mph is best. Peripheral vision is fantastic, and stress is low by comparison to 65 and higher. And travel time isn't really affected on 300-mile trips (record engine hours versus miles). Trip planning to control number of stops and their length is how time is saved (safety is two hours or 100-miles to stretch; and an hour break after 4-hours driving. Combine with meal and fuel stop).
Details apply after that, so that advantages of 58-62/mph multiply. And they do.
I start from the assumption that braking and handling for a pickup teach limits from 55-65/mph. Rollover chances greatly increase. So, use what works in this speed range. One may not have the best gear choice for a speed in that range. But a little higher or lower to use Direct or Overdrive given conditions is how I see to place myself. FE second to that.
|