I wouldn't say that statement is 100% accurate. I do see your point though.

I've been commuting on my Speed since I bought it in late October in Toronto which takes me through the downtown lake front area. I don't have a problem with traffic. In fact once I put on a mirror and mounted the flag higher, I think the visibility is fine. I also have my lights on and wear reflective clothing to further enhance my visibility.

Its about attitude really. If you act scared and worried on the road, motorists will pick up on this. If you ride with a purpose, strong and appear to know what you are doing they react differently. Nothing is 100% but I think this is one of many keys to getting around, no matter what you ride. I also think some motorists assume there is something "wrong" (read: disability, sorry not meant to offend) with me and I am forced to ride my easy chair into work. So the reaction is sympathetic in a manner of speaking.

I had one woman, tailgate me for a block down a narrow street with vehicles parked along the right side, lay on her horn and yell at me that I was stupid, about a week ago. Bad day at work, whatever, I got really pissed and chased her down the street until she parked. I told her to learn how share the road, and remember to read the quote in first page in the driver's manual, "Driving is a priviledge, not a right." She looked at me like I had two heads. I just shook my head and continued home. Whatever. Getting off topic anyways.

Heck ride what makes you comfortable. I think it can be done as long as you take the steps to make the ride a safe and enjoyable as possible.