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Head and cross winds tend to govern my speeds more than any other factor on open, flat terrain. This can vary my average speed from 55 to 70+ mph. By maintaining equal pressure on the accelerator pedal (about 1/2 way on my current tow vehicle) you will realize maximum fuel economy. Cruise control costs money because it is constantly changing the pressure on the accelerator pedal to maintain a constant speed when fighting winds.
Because most roads are not completely flat though, I accelerate to gain speed while descending a hill so as to take advantage of gravity (pedal is at about 3/4) I usually let off before I reach 80 mph though. Then when I begin ascending the next hill I keep the accelerator pedal at 3/4 and allow the momentum from my weight and speed to get me to the top. I will increase acceleration only if I drop to less than 50 mph. This is how experienced truckers drive. Cruise control costs money by decelerating down hills and accelerating up them.
Speed limits are a matter of common sense. If you drive too fast for the conditions that Janet’s husband has mentioned, then you are a dangerous driver. Period. But there is another side to this story.
A pet peeve of mine is to approach a vehicle from behind while going through very hilly terrain on a 2 lane highway who is maintaining the posted speed limit to the letter. 55 mph uphill. 55 mph downhill. This is also dangerous driving that lacks common sense! And they are usually oblivious to the fact that the grill of an 18 wheeler is staring at them in their rear view mirror, 2 inches off their back bumper. If this is how you drive, then please pull over to let others pass because you are driving downhill too SLOW!!!
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