Ken, I think what you are describing is what has been called "defensive driving", and these principles apply equally well whether you are operating an auto, motorcycle or bicycle. When I'm operating any vehicle, and that includes a bicycle, my mind is constantly engaged in my ever changing surroundings, scanning left and right, front and back, trying to stay several steps in front of future unfolding events, predicting, planning a solution such as escape routes. I try not to get boxed in to the point that I don't have any satisfactory outs. Using my brakes is the last resort for accident avoidance, since it doesn't always offer a safe result, but sometimes there is no other choice. You can only stop so fast, regardless of the braking system due to surface condtions and the limitations imposed by the laws of physics. I believe in having a front brake as a minimum on all my road bikes, whether freewheeling or not, and knowing how to use it maximally under normal conditions.

Bicycle racing, particularly track racing, has greatly enhanced my predictive and reactive skills, and I recommend that everyone who can possibly do so try mass start track racing as a means to this end. I also find that riding off road on an MTB or cross bike helps one learn how to deal with slippery conditions on a 2-wheeled vehicle. I know for sure than I'm a much better road rider as a result.