[Danelzka]

I was a newbie, and last Fall I finally got up the nerve for my first interstate ride. It was delightful. My c50 at 60 to 80 mph had no vibrations. Then, as I was going speed limit....a pick-up truck w/ 2 guys were tail gating me a bit too close for comfort. I speeded up, so did they. I slowed down, hoping they'd pass, they kept on my #&%. I put on my emergency flashers and slowed down more. I knew it was trouble when they copied my emergency flashers. (Where are the cops when u need them) I stayed in center of my lane, ignored them they then drive into passing lane and stayed level with me. They wld copy my speed patterns. They were laughing and I got mad and scared. An exit was coming up, I thought about taking it, but this is Vermont, very rural. I'd rather stay on as public road as poss..... when I passed the exit and stayed on interstate, they sped up and then pulled in front of me and hit their brakes. Somehow I had thot they wld do this and was prepared. I slowed way down, hoping for some traffic to show. the truck finally burned rubber and took off. I illegally crossed the median strip and headed back home. Was shaken, relieved, and in about 5 minutes happily cruising again. ANY TIPS if this happens again or to others who might read this? I am female, older (age 54) but in riding gear you cannot tell my age. Is gender the reason for the harrassment?