shouldberiding

Fight the power!

powerhouse

I've used the old-school, left-handed version in which the elbow points out and the arm points up in a capital "L" formation which I learned from a bicycling manual. Being right-handed, I can better be in control of my bicycle while I ride and use my left for hand signals. In over 30 years of bicycling, I have clearly shown hand signals to motorists without their becoming confused about my intentions.

Camilo

I always point w/ right or left hand depending on which way I'm turning.

The left hand only style is based on motorcycles (right hand twist throttle) and US car configuration (left side driver). That's why it was taught to us in the old days (maybe still is?).

However, it has never had any sensible rationale for a bicyclist because a bicyclist can remove either hand with equal control over the bike. Nowadays, neither car or motorcyclle drivers use hand signals anymore, so it makes even less sense for bicyclists to adhere to that archaic non-sensical convention. Yea, most drivers probably understand signaling a right turn with the left hand, but why do it that way? Just point clearly the direction you're going and go there.

BUT - check your local/state driving laws to see which is required. My state allows both.

kleinboogie

I point with my right hand and try to look as obvious as possible.

CPFITNESS

you have to use the right hand in NYC because often times you are signaling a simple lane change because you see a car ahead making a left when you want to go straight. If I used the left hand the cars in the lanes to the right of me probably wouldn't see it but putting the right arm out and pointing makes it much more clear.

The real problem here is no cars use friggin turnsignals. i came inches from getting hit by a mercedes that was next to me and turning without a signal today.

bbattle

tntyz

I am starting to use the "new" version more lately. Drivers don't seem to recognize the "old" version as a turn signal and just wave cofusedly back at me.