Originally Posted by
Roughstuff
Don't forget that when you are riding in your car, you can set a good example for other motorists by using a reasonable speed when it is called for, treating cyclists with courtesy and giving them (you) their proper space, etc. And if you go the speed limit, in many cases people behind you have no choice but to reduce their speed to yours as well.
The intention of this post is honourable, but I have to say that, at least on a per-mile basis, I have a lot more people screaming, honking, and exhibiting generally threatening behavior when I'm driving a car vs riding a bike. I'm not sure "setting an example" is entirely possible in the context you describe.
Of course with the windows rolled up and the radio on, these incidents are also a lot less memorable.