Originally Posted by
RichardGlover
When riding through bad neighborhoods, I don't do anything differently other than make an effort to pay attention to my surroundings.
95% of conflicts can be avoided by good situational awareness, listening to 'bad feelings' your gut may be telling you, and avoiding the situation entirely (e.g. avoiding large groups, as mentioned by somebody else).
Most of the remainder can mostly be handled by keeping your cool, making it clear you're not a threat, and an absolute dedication to swallowing your pride.
For the few situations that can't be handled any other way, I carry a (legally) concealed handgun & pepper spray (which is not to say that I think I 'only' need them in 'bad' neighborhoods - bad things can happen anywhere).
You might want to avoid carrying on a bike in northern Ohio for a spell.
http://www.sanduskyregister.com/sand...oting-sandusky
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"Let us hope our weapons are never needed --but do not forget what the common people knew when they demanded the Bill of Rights: An armed citizenry is the first defense, the best defense, and the final defense against tyranny. If guns are outlawed, only the government will have guns. Only the police, the secret police, the military, the hired servants of our rulers. Only the government -- and a few outlaws. I intend to be among the outlaws" - Edward Abbey