Yes. It is really good to talk at them just to let them know you are a human and not some strange monster. Same goes for horses, I used to ride them and along with the suddenness and quietness of the bike can spook them pretty badly. But usually once they are used to them its not as bad. Unless they are into playing head games and spook is the favorite one. LOL
I have been known when riding alone to talk to everyone and everything. LOL Cats dogs, flowers, trees....LOL And with owners walking dogs I usually tell them they are so cute or pretty. And actually, I have yet to meet a dog that wasn't one or the other. And golden Oldie dogs are just extra special. It does tend to calm owner and dog. Plus giving bike riders a better name. I smile and wave at cars too, especially if they slow down. If they do something stupid and almost kill me its one fingered but that hasn't happened often. LOL