Originally Posted by
keyven
...... I believe there's definitely a gulf in perceptions between cyclists and drivers, mostly because your generic driver wouldn't have experienced the sensation of vulnerability when a car zooms close to them, or slams their brake inches from a cyclist. Even if no one gets injured, it is a harrowing experience, which no one wants to be subjected to.
Actually... if you remove the cyclist/motorist differences I think there is quite a bit written about this. Amusement parks have capitalized on the scare that can be created using mechanical power.... like roller coasters. Rides that offer height or disorientation (like turning upside down) adds an extra thrill.
Vulnerability... isn't a sensation... it's a reality. The sensation you're feeling is called fear. Humans experience a reaction to fear called "fight or flight". The fight or flight response is universal to all humans whether they drive, cycle, do neither or both. Any "gulf in perceptions" does not exist. I'd suggest that maybe you need to better familiarize yourself with your own feelings.
Once you realize and accept that your agitation is a result of you own normal emotional response (the fight or flight response) and not externally caused by motorist. You might be able to realize that you actually have control over those feelings. People discard the normal fear during amusement park rides everyday.... and just enjoy the "thrill".
Look at these cyclist... having a GREAT time: