I would say I get more comments on the positive side when I mention my riding, where, how far etc.
As far as motorist attitudes, I think they are envious when the see that a bike can get ahead of them in heavy traffic, but when they are slightly delayed because of a bike riding in the lane ahead of them, that envy translates into anger, and we get the result of that.
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"...perhaps the world needs a little more Canada" - Jean Chretian, 2003.