I frequently ride with my iPod, right earbud only, music at a reasonable level. I too can hear traffic, birds, people, other riders....everything. There's a lot of people on their soapbox here assuming we're unsafe/can't hear a thing. Whatever, do what works for you and I will as well. I think more often than not, it's not an iPod that makes anyone unsafe, it's their lack of following the rules of the road!!