Wow Blanche! That's scary. I think you did precisely the best thing you could have. I think about it a lot too (especially since one of the kind folks in the LBS mentioned that there were certain places in my area females shouldn't ride alone because of muggings and bike jackings !). I usually ride with my DH, but he isn't a morning person, and often that's the only time I have to ride - so I ride along. I've started carrying my cell phone in my camelbak, but wonder whether I could really get it out in time.

Pepper spray is something I'll have to look into soon - especially as I'll be riding more near dawn/dusk as the days shorten.

I had a similar situation in my car about 8 years ago - I had a nut case get out of a car at a stop sign and come towards me. I had an old cell phone that wasn't hooked up in the car with me. I picked it up and pretended to be dialing - he got back in his car and took off in a hurry.

Glad you're OK - and I agree - report it. Even if the guy doesn't have a record, he'll have one the next time he tries to mess with someone.