i tend to think it's completely about finding the right volume balance.. essentially, you need it SUPER low so that you can hear what's around you. slightly lower than coversational volume.

having said that.. i think podcasts will be more dangerous to listen to than music. podcasts you'll be drawn to concentrate on.. low volume music is just background noise to break up the monotony.

that having been said.. i come from newcastle.. a town where you stand out if you wear a helmet while riding.. thus.. i stand out down here when i dont wear one. THAT having been said, i only dont wear one because it was stolen.. seriously, who steals a fucking GIANT (my head is huge) helmet??

THAT having been said.. the busiest stretch i ride along is little collins, and it's for two blocks.. and the pedestrian traffic is what will kill you/me.

and yes.. i plan to get a new helmet.. ive just been lazy is all. plus, it was hard to find one that fit my gargantuan head.