[pbanders]

We have a place in Flagstaff, a 175 mile drive on mostly freeways (Hwy 10 and 17), that gains nearly 6000' in elevation from here in Phoenix. 17 is quite winding, two lanes each way, and has major grades, with a 75 mph speed limit. We have a Toyota Sienna minivan, I set the cruise for 80 mph when I'm on 17 and stay out of the left lane as much as possible. When I drive the Boxster or the M3, when I'm on cruise, I set it for 80 to 85 mph, and will take it up to 100 or slightly over from time to time. I never tailgate, I never race anyone, and I let anyone who comes up behind me past immediately, regardless of if they're acting like a ********************head or not.

I'm regularly blown off the road by large pickup trucks on this road, usually Ford F150/250/350's, Chevy Silverados, and Dodge Rams. Typical speed for these guys is 95 to 110 mph. I regularly notice trucks that pass me with underinflated tires - and don't forget summer temps here are generally 105 deg F and higher. Predictably, you often see these guys on the side of the road with blowouts, or in the ravine with the helicopter nearby to fly them out.

Evolution in action.