I understand what you are saying, Cheshire, it's just that I don't agree that there is one hard and fast way to ride all the time. depends on the location, the rider, and the situation.
in my situation, with no peds on the sidewalk, I am not being discourteous to them. also, it is legal to do this where I live.
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"Think of bicycles as rideable art that can just about save the world". ~Grant Petersen
Cyclists fare best when they recognize that there are times when acting vehicularly is not the best practice, and are flexible enough to do what is necessary as the situation warrants.--Me