A259

[ChristoT]

As Frosties said learn the road and you will get on a lot better.
Im lucky I dont have to ride all the time so avoid the dark, and rain, becaus as you have found out ---------- it aint fun

I do a lot of long distances on roads I don't know, generally with the bike loaded up beyond the point of sanity. Whilst the Hail Marys certainly help  :eek , the best thing is to relax (as you've already discovered). After all, there is no shame in being the slowest vehicle on the road. If the car behind you wants to go faster, he can overtake or foc off! I also find in really bad weather that following another vehicle (like said overtaker) can be handy - his rear lights show you the way.

For blinding headlights, I'll share a friend's hint: rather than looking directly forwards, squint sideways, and try and hold a set distance from the kerb / white line. Works for me! Practise will train you to pick up brake lights in your peripheral vision. A similar hint I read (but which I question) is to close one eye when traffic is oncoming, so only one eye gets dazzled.

Hope this helps, and enjoy the riding!  :thumbup