11-07-2020, 03:57 PM
I think I understand what the OP is getting at. At 55 i qualify for answering and I say yes whith one exception. As alreadys said, defensive riding is key.
I am fortunate to ride in Sweden where traffic has increased steadily since I got my license (early 80s) but it's still relatively sparse. This allows me to manouver in traffic and maintain an "exit strategy" for the unexpected, i.e. not having to rely on others' skills and judgement. It's all about imagination and prediction, not about riding slowly (I overtake more than I'm overtaken). So yes, as a rule I feel I can avoid getting hurt.
However, there is one exception - multi-lane traffic around Stockholm (the capital) 24/7 and sometimes also around handful of other main cities in Sweden. Here it's impossible to keep sane distances as drivers (and riders) tailgate, swerve in front, overtake on the inside, refuse to use their indicators or adjust their speed to others. The end result is complex, dynamic and scary. I've ridden in London, Paris and Rome but Stockholm is the worst I've ridden. So I stay away, even though I have the RLETs to protect me.
I am fortunate to ride in Sweden where traffic has increased steadily since I got my license (early 80s) but it's still relatively sparse. This allows me to manouver in traffic and maintain an "exit strategy" for the unexpected, i.e. not having to rely on others' skills and judgement. It's all about imagination and prediction, not about riding slowly (I overtake more than I'm overtaken). So yes, as a rule I feel I can avoid getting hurt.
However, there is one exception - multi-lane traffic around Stockholm (the capital) 24/7 and sometimes also around handful of other main cities in Sweden. Here it's impossible to keep sane distances as drivers (and riders) tailgate, swerve in front, overtake on the inside, refuse to use their indicators or adjust their speed to others. The end result is complex, dynamic and scary. I've ridden in London, Paris and Rome but Stockholm is the worst I've ridden. So I stay away, even though I have the RLETs to protect me.