This may be a little too in-depth, but this page for hand signals is interesting. I'd actually like to hear what other people have to say about this:
http://www.inlandempirecycling.com/C...nd_signals.htm
Drop bars are supposed to be more aerodynamic, so faster, and also more stable in turns. (Someone else chime in here please
Not a direct answer, but I think you may find this page useful:
http://www.sheldonbrown.com/brakturn.html
It sounds like you are comfortable with technical directions, so Sheldon Brown is a great resource.
If you want to read about bike etiquette, look up 'paceline' in Sheldon Brown.