The idea that all who take the lane are VCers is false. I'm mostly a "stealth" cyclist according to Hurst's typology:
http://www.urbanvelo.org/issue3/urbanvelo3_p50-51.html
I really recommend that people read "The Art of Cycling". It's a great counterpoint to VC zealotry!
To provide a thread-specific example, when riding close to the speed of traffic (80-90% of the time in PDX), I almost always ride on the
left side of traffic lanes.
Why I do this:
It eliminates close passes.
It prevents right hooks.
It allows me to swerve and split lanes with ease.
Moreover, as I approach some intersections I will reflexively perform a little swerve to help close followers and light blowers pay attention. The swerve also helps set up a possible quick turn that can be used to avoid oncoming perpendicular traffic.
I honestly cannot remember the last time I've been right hooked. Although the fact that I run a lot of stop signs and lights probably has something to do with this too.
