How can you tell.....

[PamNY]

I will still walk my bike at most busy intersections. Not because of my shifting, but because it still takes me a little longer to start than other cyclists and I don't want to p*ss off impatient drivers. I am working on this, but in the end, will do what feels safe to do.

Catrin, you are right to do this and I don't think it's indicative of a lack of skill or experience.

I have a friend who is a long-time NYC bike messenger. He hates the same intersections I hate.

It's very interesting to talk to him about biking because he has nothing to prove -- having made his living on the mean streets for years. He's usually not wearing a helmet when I see him -- so nothing to do with experience.