No offense intended, Brenny, but your mates inexperience with running a throttle lock is by no means any reason for everyone to condemn them. Really, I mean no offense. You have to use some common sense and realize that some things may take more effort to accomplish and plan for it and PRACTICE the maneuver until it gets to be second nature. I don't ride around with my right hand as far away from the bars as I can get it just because I have the lock on. Taking your hand off is only for appropriate times, which isn't in town or in traffic. Specifically, the Kaoko is different because it actually acts on the end of the throttle tube, more likely the eighth of an inch of rubber grip hanging off it which makes the action of letting off the gas loosen the whole unit whether you touch the Kaoko or not. In extreme cases, a panicked hand could easily twist the throttle back no matter how tight the lock is which I would imagine is how every lock is meant to operate. I use it for cruising and maintaining speed which can get tiring on a long trip where just laying your hand on the grip and not having to actually hold it twisted can be a lifesaver, especially for my carpal tunneled wrists. Shit happens though and sometimes you just don't react quick enough or in the right manner and you get in trouble, that's just the risk you take riding. Would you say just because having three pieces of luggage and a passenger can make you stop 100 feet farther than if you were solo with no bags does means it is more dangerous and shouldn't be done? I say not if the rider is skilled in riding with luggage and passenger weight. I believe everyone just has to know their limitations and ride within them.
On a side note, I will admit when you are first getting used to the Kaoko it can be very frustrating trying to find the right spot to 'tie' it down because the 14 just wants to accelerate from any throttle position especially when you're dealing with any kind of grade changes where it is more of a distraction than a benefit. However, I like having it there for the right circumstances - long flat boring 70mph highways.
RIP 08 Special ED ZX-14
2004 Electra-Glide Classic Peace Officer Black, Rineheart true-duals, HID with Hella headlight bucket, Goodridge SS brake lines, saving for DJ PowerVision FI controller and K&N large cap. kit.
2004 Suzuki Katana 750 (wife's but doesn't ride anymore) (fo sale), Hindle exhaust, K&N air, Dark metallic blue w/ blue led accent lighting.
1983 Suzuki GS750ES under construction(perpetually)