I pretty much agree with the consensus (or what kind of seems like maybe a consensus? ). If I'm by myself (which usually means training rides), sometimes I'll talk or encourage myself (I'm sure it sounds nuts), things like "we can do it" or "just one more" or "almost there" or "come on bike, let's take it!"

If I am riding with my husband, dad, or friends, I will talk some or most of the time. For me, it's a way to measure and make sure I'm not pushing anyone too hard. If they start talking in clipped, short syllables and I know I'm pushing, I'll try to keep it at a minimum. I usually stop talking up hills because I know that's going to be a push anyway. When my husband wears the heart monitor, I will listen for that, too. On roads, we ride single file, which makes talking a little harder. I'd rather be safe than chatty.

I don't really train or do hard rides with other people. I don't really have anyone to train with until I get my aforementioned bike friends moving a little faster or interested in rides longer than 10-15 miles. I'm working on them.