I'm bored with driving..
Discussion
Well, the title says it all. I'm bored with driving.
Let me explain..
Up until a year ago, I was an exemplary driver. Responsible daily driver, no points, and being behind the wheel was always an enjoyable and fun experience. I got myself a new car around a year ago, and this is where things started going "wrong". Since my new car was a bit more powerful than anything I'd driven, I thought I'd do the IAM to learn a bit about the car and become a better driver. This started off ok. My observer (and pre-test observer guy) were happy with my progress, and after 6 or 7 lessons, I had my test. It sounds egotistical, but failing the test knocked the wind from my sails. I was sure I would pass, as did my observer. I always intended to sit it again, but like 90% of those who fail, I put it on the backburner and never got round to it.
Fast forward to a year later. Since then, I've been caught by two camera vans at 95 and 96 on the motorway. Five points for the first one, and the second one is being processed now. So this leaves me in the unenviable position of looking at a ban, should I drive over the limit once more. I know it's my own fault, but I just don't enjoy driving now. You shouldn't have to speed to enjoy driving obviously, and I've not went over any limits in the last month or so. Driving isn't fun, and I've just lost any motivation to do my IAM again.
I just read 10PenceShorts story - a sobering read. I want to be able to enjoy driving again without speeding. I'm thinking of doing a track day, or maybe going down the ROSPA route. IAM were very nice, but I'd prefer to make a "fresh start", if that makes sense? Perhaps even a different branch of IAM, with a new observer, etc, would do.
Anyway, sorry for my ramblings. I know if I'm not enjoying driving then it's some fault at my end, and I genuinely don't want banned, or worse, become involved in an accident. I'm sure you guys must have some experience with this kind of situation. Any advice is most welcome
Thanks in advance,
Erd
Let me explain..
Up until a year ago, I was an exemplary driver. Responsible daily driver, no points, and being behind the wheel was always an enjoyable and fun experience. I got myself a new car around a year ago, and this is where things started going "wrong". Since my new car was a bit more powerful than anything I'd driven, I thought I'd do the IAM to learn a bit about the car and become a better driver. This started off ok. My observer (and pre-test observer guy) were happy with my progress, and after 6 or 7 lessons, I had my test. It sounds egotistical, but failing the test knocked the wind from my sails. I was sure I would pass, as did my observer. I always intended to sit it again, but like 90% of those who fail, I put it on the backburner and never got round to it.
Fast forward to a year later. Since then, I've been caught by two camera vans at 95 and 96 on the motorway. Five points for the first one, and the second one is being processed now. So this leaves me in the unenviable position of looking at a ban, should I drive over the limit once more. I know it's my own fault, but I just don't enjoy driving now. You shouldn't have to speed to enjoy driving obviously, and I've not went over any limits in the last month or so. Driving isn't fun, and I've just lost any motivation to do my IAM again.
I just read 10PenceShorts story - a sobering read. I want to be able to enjoy driving again without speeding. I'm thinking of doing a track day, or maybe going down the ROSPA route. IAM were very nice, but I'd prefer to make a "fresh start", if that makes sense? Perhaps even a different branch of IAM, with a new observer, etc, would do.
Anyway, sorry for my ramblings. I know if I'm not enjoying driving then it's some fault at my end, and I genuinely don't want banned, or worse, become involved in an accident. I'm sure you guys must have some experience with this kind of situation. Any advice is most welcome
Thanks in advance,
Erd
Hi Bert - thanks for responding!
Before, I drove a Micra, then Primera and then a Corolla. The trouble all started when I bought a Z4!
What I enjoyed about driving before? Hmm, it would have to be the freedom, the responsibility and just the pleasure of feeling like the car is an extension of myself. The acceleration, trying to make the drive smooth, etc. Before, I would always enjoy things like accelerating onto slip-roads. The 30mph - 60/70mph was fun, as was negotiating roundabouts, junctions, etc. I think once I upgraded the car, I "got a taste" for more of that acceleration, and in the space of a year my driving has went downhill.
I wouldn't say I was reckless by any means, but being caught at 90+ twice in a year obviously means I'm driving too fast. In my defence, I'm religious about sticking to limits in built up areas and being smooth and considerate. If I were to be a driving stereotype, I'm ashamed to say I'd probably be the classic "I can handle it" type dork. You guys are enthusiastic about cars, and in this forum no doubt good drivers, so I guess I'm just throwing this one out to the crowd and seeing how you guys handle this kind of thing. I don't want to be scunnered with driving (sorry, scottish word there!). I think a trackday may be in order, and perhaps look at re-doing the IAM/RoSPA after that.
It's funny how changing a car can change attitudes and styles so much. One year ago, I was at the peak of my driving enthusiasm, and now it's at an all time low. I'm sure it'll change again.
Erd
Before, I drove a Micra, then Primera and then a Corolla. The trouble all started when I bought a Z4!
What I enjoyed about driving before? Hmm, it would have to be the freedom, the responsibility and just the pleasure of feeling like the car is an extension of myself. The acceleration, trying to make the drive smooth, etc. Before, I would always enjoy things like accelerating onto slip-roads. The 30mph - 60/70mph was fun, as was negotiating roundabouts, junctions, etc. I think once I upgraded the car, I "got a taste" for more of that acceleration, and in the space of a year my driving has went downhill.
I wouldn't say I was reckless by any means, but being caught at 90+ twice in a year obviously means I'm driving too fast. In my defence, I'm religious about sticking to limits in built up areas and being smooth and considerate. If I were to be a driving stereotype, I'm ashamed to say I'd probably be the classic "I can handle it" type dork. You guys are enthusiastic about cars, and in this forum no doubt good drivers, so I guess I'm just throwing this one out to the crowd and seeing how you guys handle this kind of thing. I don't want to be scunnered with driving (sorry, scottish word there!). I think a trackday may be in order, and perhaps look at re-doing the IAM/RoSPA after that.
It's funny how changing a car can change attitudes and styles so much. One year ago, I was at the peak of my driving enthusiasm, and now it's at an all time low. I'm sure it'll change again.
Erd
7db said:
It sounds like one of the fatal things for your driving pleasure was being caught twice at speed on the motorway. Would you share with us what happened? I think it would be enlightening and sobering for people here.
Nothing exciting, I'm afraid.Both times I was in the outside lane and by the time I'd spotted the camera vans, it was too late to do anything about it. Both times were when I was away for the weekend, and the NIP was waiting on my doorstep when I got back. The first one didn't bother me _too_ much. I felt more stupid for being caught than actually doing that speed, but with the second one, I'm being forced to have a think about what will happen if I continue like this. I say "like this", but I've stopped speeding now, and just am not enjoying driving as much as I know I should be.
I managed to enjoy driving for the 10+ years without speeding, before getting my Z. Failing my IAM and the speeding tickets all within the space of a year is what has dampened my enthusiasm I think.
If you want real fun behind the wheel you've got to save it for the track IMO. I can go and enjoy a hoon on some country roads near where I live - but its a different thing as unless one is a loon one is not going to be taking corners near the limit of grip on the road - instead one is governed by being able to stop yada yada.
Out on track its just your talent vs the tarmac. How fast can you go without losing time by sliding?
Cracking fun.
A few track days a year and I'm fine with tootling along on the M4...
Out on track its just your talent vs the tarmac. How fast can you go without losing time by sliding?
Cracking fun.
A few track days a year and I'm fine with tootling along on the M4...
I have much the same feeling as the OP.
Luckily, I now don't have to drive, unless I want to.
Time was, well, this country had more sense.
That is, of course, the irony in all this.
The Motorway network was meant to be a high speed interconnection system.
To enable travel and commerce.
Those charged with it's implementation have failed.
That's the UK in so many areas.
Luckily, I now don't have to drive, unless I want to.
Time was, well, this country had more sense.
That is, of course, the irony in all this.
The Motorway network was meant to be a high speed interconnection system.
To enable travel and commerce.
Those charged with it's implementation have failed.
That's the UK in so many areas.
I'm with Don.
When I first got my GTO the temptation to take it somewhere near its limit has huge and I could see nearly 40 years of clean licence disappearing. So predicted at least one of my friends.
A couple of track days at Brands Hatch and I'm happy being a (relatively) sensible driver again. I now know what it feels like to take really fast corners. I don't need to try it on the road. I know what cars it will leave standing; I don't need to prove at the lights.
Mind you, I am getting the urge to try a bit of Santa Pod 1/4 mile.
When I first got my GTO the temptation to take it somewhere near its limit has huge and I could see nearly 40 years of clean licence disappearing. So predicted at least one of my friends.
A couple of track days at Brands Hatch and I'm happy being a (relatively) sensible driver again. I now know what it feels like to take really fast corners. I don't need to try it on the road. I know what cars it will leave standing; I don't need to prove at the lights.
Mind you, I am getting the urge to try a bit of Santa Pod 1/4 mile.
I was bored, had a MkII golf which is meant to be fun, but got bored anyways. Since then I have bought a TVR and did my IAM test. Since then I have really enjoyed driving. Even at moderate speeds its fun, in fact I probably drive less quickly than I did before, because Im in no hurry to get there to end the boredom. The fun comes a bit from the IAM training which keeps my mind active all the time, and some is from the feel, noise and smell of the TVR. (None of that has anything to do with an impending breakdown - never had one). So my reccomendation would be to complete your IAM, that might help. Although the Z4 is a great car, it may not be invoving enough to keep you interested. You could change suspension set-ups or something like that, or maybe consider changing your car if you really feel that you boredom is that bad. Also a good thing to try is use different routes for journeys that you do often, it stimulates your brain more.
Thanks for the replies guys. Good to know I'm not the only one going through a phase like this.
The trackday option seems like a good one. I've booked myself in for a day at my local track (Knockhill), where I'll be out on the road with a retired police driver in the morning, then onto the skidpan and track for the afternoon. Depending on how it all goes, I'll maybe look at trying the IAM again. I'll let you all know how it goes - I'm excited now
Erd
The trackday option seems like a good one. I've booked myself in for a day at my local track (Knockhill), where I'll be out on the road with a retired police driver in the morning, then onto the skidpan and track for the afternoon. Depending on how it all goes, I'll maybe look at trying the IAM again. I'll let you all know how it goes - I'm excited now
Erd
RumbleBee said:
(None of that has anything to do with an impending breakdown - never had one).
By golly you're brave writing that thought down.
OP - where was the van when you spotted it? Could you have spotted it earlier? Is seeing how far you can lift your observation something that occupies your mind when you are driving?
there has to be something to make driving interesting in today's climate. It's down to each person type to find it in their environment. Part of it is how the car behaves and part of it is how much and what you put into your driving.
I can only tell how it's affected me over the last few years as I have had similar thoughts.
I tried IAM, didn't get as far as the test as I fell out with my group. It just didn't work for me - doesn't matter why. As a result I didn't feel good about advanced driving and probably wouldn't go back that route. However I got over it and managed to disconnect "better driving" from my experience. Being middle aged with a little more financial freedom, I am getting some driving instruction - currently on track and next year on road. I enjoy my road driving as I am concentrating on the elements of advanced driving that are important to me - happens to be observation.
Regarding the car, I have been in the wilderness for a few years having got rid of the car I loved and regretted it (doh). I loved driving my Subaru P1. Did 3.5 years and decided to go for a change. Mitsufishi Evo. Hated it, I just drove around at loony speeds looking for the fun. Sold it, got a Clio 182 Cup. Hated it. Did nothing well, never engaged me. Along the way, I got my daughter a Pug 106 Rallye. Not quick but I loved it! It had to go as it only worked 50% of the time. Got her a Rover 25, loved it, great fun. Then for me I bought a TVR. That seemed to do it. A great driving experience without the need for speed. So I have no idea how that lot works out, but it could be that the bmw just doesn't work for you!
No idea if any of that helps at all.
Bert
I can only tell how it's affected me over the last few years as I have had similar thoughts.
I tried IAM, didn't get as far as the test as I fell out with my group. It just didn't work for me - doesn't matter why. As a result I didn't feel good about advanced driving and probably wouldn't go back that route. However I got over it and managed to disconnect "better driving" from my experience. Being middle aged with a little more financial freedom, I am getting some driving instruction - currently on track and next year on road. I enjoy my road driving as I am concentrating on the elements of advanced driving that are important to me - happens to be observation.
Regarding the car, I have been in the wilderness for a few years having got rid of the car I loved and regretted it (doh). I loved driving my Subaru P1. Did 3.5 years and decided to go for a change. Mitsufishi Evo. Hated it, I just drove around at loony speeds looking for the fun. Sold it, got a Clio 182 Cup. Hated it. Did nothing well, never engaged me. Along the way, I got my daughter a Pug 106 Rallye. Not quick but I loved it! It had to go as it only worked 50% of the time. Got her a Rover 25, loved it, great fun. Then for me I bought a TVR. That seemed to do it. A great driving experience without the need for speed. So I have no idea how that lot works out, but it could be that the bmw just doesn't work for you!
No idea if any of that helps at all.
Bert
I find that with cruise control, I have little chance of exceeding NSL by much. Once up to speed, I just put the cc on and forget it.
The other one, which I saw in a BMW in Dubai, not sure if they do this now, but every car there had to have an audiable warning fitted which used to go off when the car exceeded 70mph, not loud, but enough to warn you.
Why dont manufacturers, or after sales make a gizmo which could be set by the driver himself, say set at 75-80 for motorways.
Could save drivers creaping up as we do.
The other one, which I saw in a BMW in Dubai, not sure if they do this now, but every car there had to have an audiable warning fitted which used to go off when the car exceeded 70mph, not loud, but enough to warn you.
Why dont manufacturers, or after sales make a gizmo which could be set by the driver himself, say set at 75-80 for motorways.
Could save drivers creaping up as we do.
Well, for sure the speed cameras haven't helped.
But I definitely had more fun in my 70BHP 1.3 Marina than I do in a 140BHP Audi. So I imagine, if my dreams came true and I had a few hundred BHP of 6 or 8 cylinder fun, I'd be getting points but enjoying it less?
Track days sound fun but expensive. Or maybe I'm just getting old?
But I definitely had more fun in my 70BHP 1.3 Marina than I do in a 140BHP Audi. So I imagine, if my dreams came true and I had a few hundred BHP of 6 or 8 cylinder fun, I'd be getting points but enjoying it less?
Track days sound fun but expensive. Or maybe I'm just getting old?
Vipers said:
I find that with cruise control, I have little chance of exceeding NSL by much. Once up to speed, I just put the cc on and forget it.
The other one, which I saw in a BMW in Dubai, not sure if they do this now, but every car there had to have an audiable warning fitted which used to go off when the car exceeded 70mph, not loud, but enough to warn you.
Why dont manufacturers, or after sales make a gizmo which could be set by the driver himself, say set at 75-80 for motorways.
Could save drivers creaping up as we do.
they used to have that years ago in XR4is so it cant be hard to do.The other one, which I saw in a BMW in Dubai, not sure if they do this now, but every car there had to have an audiable warning fitted which used to go off when the car exceeded 70mph, not loud, but enough to warn you.
Why dont manufacturers, or after sales make a gizmo which could be set by the driver himself, say set at 75-80 for motorways.
Could save drivers creaping up as we do.
Hooli said:
Vipers said:
...but every car there had to have an audiable warning fitted which used to go off when the car exceeded 70mph, not loud, but enough to warn you. Why dont manufacturers, or after sales make a gizmo which could be set by the driver himself, say set at 75-80 for motorways. ould save drivers creaeping up as we do.
they used to have that years ago in XR4is so it cant be hard to do.It works really well for motorways but you can't reprogram it for 60/50/40/30 zones which is where the speed cameras are.
It would be useful to have buttons for 30/40/50/60/70 which limit your speed (+9% of course), it'd be dead easy to do as well. Your choice if you press it.
CivicMan said:
I'd suggest using your speedometer and try looking at it like advanced drivers do.
Contrary to popular belief, BMWs do have them. Just the other side of the steering wheel...next to the rev counter.
The more time you spend looking at those things, the less chance there is that you'll see what's happening in front of you. Is it too early in the evening to call you a tw@t?Contrary to popular belief, BMWs do have them. Just the other side of the steering wheel...next to the rev counter.
Ordinary Bloke said:
Hooli said:
Vipers said:
...but every car there had to have an audiable warning fitted which used to go off when the car exceeded 70mph, not loud, but enough to warn you. Why dont manufacturers, or after sales make a gizmo which could be set by the driver himself, say set at 75-80 for motorways. ould save drivers creaeping up as we do.
they used to have that years ago in XR4is so it cant be hard to do.It works really well for motorways but you can't reprogram it for 60/50/40/30 zones which is where the speed cameras are.
It would be useful to have buttons for 30/40/50/60/70 which limit your speed (+9% of course), it'd be dead easy to do as well. Your choice if you press it.
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