Using a telescoping baton properly takes training and experience. They are a less-than-lethal method that can turn lethal if improperly used. I had to go through the training course, and you are taught primarily to strike at joints such as the knee, wrist and elbow. The intent is to disable the attacker or to cause him/her sufficient pain so that they comply with your commands. Striking the head, face or spine is a definite no-no insofar as that can cause death or permanent neurological injury, exposing you to substantial criminal and civil liability. Unfortunately, if you are in the middle of a knock-down drag-out fight with someone, who may be chemically impaired and is struggling violently with you, your ability to carefully choose your strike point goes out the window. Ask me how I know this! There is also always the possibility that the other party is able to disarm you and then beat you to death with your own baton. If the baton is your sole method of self-defense, you may be up the creek without a paddle at that point.

Suffice it to say that although I still have my old ASP baton, I do not carry it with me on the bicycle. Noting that you are 18 and in Oregon, I would think that pepper spray is your best bet.

PS: Many state laws, insofar as you look them up on the 'Net, say nothing about batons, night sticks, or telescoping batons. But they likely say something about blackjacks and saps. The sticky wicket comes in that there may be criminal case law in your jurisdiction that defines a baton as falling within the definition of a sap or blackjack. If you want to be absolutely sure about your state laws, you should consult an attorney, or if you possess the proper legal research skills, can do a search in your state's criminal statutory and case law to try and find an answer.