Keep in mind that society views that most people on a bike are doing so because they are poor. And really, do any of us ride around with $100 wadded up in our pockets? Cyclists are not targets, and everyone knows this. Besides, on the streets, a $3000 bike has the same value as a $100 Walmart special. It has pedals and handelbars.

And for the record, if you get caught at a sketchy corner and a guy asks "what you need man?" don't freak out and speed off. Just say "i'm ok, thanks" and then casually get moving. Even the roughest, most deranged people don't want to be judged and appreciate a simple "no" than the implied "you are scum".