Originally Posted by
Leisesturm
erm... maybe because I don't have any problem believing that you can hear LOUD things just fine. Really, its not up for argument, as was already mentioned, its often the subtle cues that give you a head's up that help you avoid something nasty. Disaster doesn't always announce itself with sirens blaring.
The heck it's not up for argument. You're dead wrong
And I'll also strongly dispute this "subtle cues" business (even tho you can hear them better with an earbud than inside a sealed car with loud music). What exactly are you listening for? Engine variations in a solid line of cars passing? You know a car is behind you or you don't. Out of the ordinary, threatening noises are loud. There are no "subtle cues".
Originally Posted by
Leisesturm
You missed the question, because you (like most) always put yourself on the power side of any equation that involves you. What I am saying is that if you blow a stop sign you are much more likely to be hit by someone with the right of way, than you are likely to hit anyone else. Given that, would you rather be hit by an SUV, wearing only street clothes, on a bicycle, or rather, getting hit by an SUV, when you are also in an SUV. Is that clearer?
Same answer as before. Being involved in a collision (hit or being hit notwithstanding), it's not "better" to be distracted in a more destructive vehicle than in a less destructive one.
ps, I've got about a week to argue this since I'm not riding right now, maybe even get into helmets ... gotta do something ...