Though intent, route, time of day, luggage, etc. may be different, the mindset that I have is the same because I am on a bike going somewhere (or in a circle) and I need to avoid incident. To that end I am constantly vigilant--know my surroundings at all times, anticipate problems before they occur, and take evasive maneuver to avoid a collision.

To me there is no difference in my mindset between recreational riding and commuting. I might be riding on this Saturday 35 km downtown to pick up a bike part and then heading home. This will be a mix of trails, bike lanes, and road. Is this commuting? Is it a rec ride? Would classifying it as one require me to have a different mindset?