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@hoefla
having said that ^^^^^ I will also say that in heavy (bike) traffic, I ride extremely defensively - this includes going at a fairly easy pace and trying to slow smoothly and looking behind a lot. I always look both sides behind. I try and make it fairly obvious when coming up to sidestreets, especially if I can see a gap, that I am slowing a little and looking past cars (meercat pose). basically looking with my head, not just eyes.
obviously, if you have to stop suddenly for your own safety, this just isn't always possible.
regarding "slowing down" hand signals - what are they? I've seen the recommended "patting a dog" thing on paper, but basically never seen it on the roads. if slowing to the kerb, do you use your right or left hand? does anyone really recognise it? I mean, most people's "I'm turning" signal is no better than that (ie. lots of people keep their hands low and close).