Owlice, I think this is a useful discussion even if there isn't general agreement. You should rant all you want, and hearing different opinions is educational.

The first time I biked on a rail trail, I didn't call out because the damn thing looked like an interstate highway to my Manhattan sensibilities. I thought "on your left" was a New York quirk because of narrow roads and crowding.

Speaking of "old roadies:" I do get annoyed at their antics, but they are the best at those two little words that mean so much: "You okay?"