Quote Originally Posted by carback
I don't listen to anything other than the sounds around me when I ride (and when I used to run).

As a woman riding / running alone, I feel a very strong need to be aware of what's going on around me at all times. Much like body posture dictating whether I look confident or vulnerable (an easy target), sporting headphones/ear buds (one or two), gives off an air of vulnerability, regardless of how much you can or cannot hear.
I agree! As a lone female, biker/runner, I too need to be aware of what goes on around me. Whether it is that redneck hanging out the passenger side window to gawk and make rude comments, or that small, four legged ankle biter yapping at my heels, I need to know where they are and what their intentions are. Some can ride with music, more power to you sister, it just isn't for me.