I ride through some bad neighborhoods and just put my head down and keep moving. Most people better be watching for me or I'll be gone before they can plan anything. Today a guy I was approaching waved and said "hey,..." I quickly give a friendly "hey" back, knowing more is coming but pretending I don't and not slowing down. Then just as I pass he gets out "let me ask you something". Ha! I couldn't quite hear that because now I'm gone.

Don't get involved but otherwise be a friendly and confident/unworried soul. Look like you have a destination and know exactly where you're going.