in all my years of driving or riding, I have ridden in big cities also.
however lane splitting isn't legal in the places ive ridden.
I must admit, there has been several times when some one would not move over out of the fast lane and with my st1300 it has very quick acceleration, so I zipped between cars or around them.
one thing I never do is ride inside of a pack of any vehicles at freeway speeds. I used to ride a bit aggressively, but not insane.
in stop and go traffic, I always stay in an outside lane. at least I have a chance of escape if things got crazy. never look at the hazard while making your escape, look at your escape.
luckily where I live and ride now is in and around a small city and unless I hop onto the interstate the speeds are all less than 60 mph other than the occasionally speeder.
with all my years of experience of driving, from pov's, 18 wheelers, bikes, etc....I have learned how to recognize hazards, look for escapes, and pay total attention at all times anytime the vehicle is moving.
constantly scanning my surroundings, I can anticipate often what a driver is going to do.
I never trust any intersection until I know that everyone around is on the same page. notice those that aren't paying attention, like peeps on cell phones, putting on makeup, or even yakking to a passenger.
I have seen and avoided many hazards simply by paying total attention anytime my vehicle is on the road and in motion.
even if you must stop on the side of the road, constantly be aware of the traffic around you, it could save your life.
I also have to admit, a loud exhaust on a bike does help others know that you are close and it forces them to be a bit more aware of your presence.
the most dangerous place for motorcyclist is at intersections and cars making left hand turns. always ride during the day with your high beams on.
never assume that anyone will yield the right of way to you. if you see a car getting ready to turn in front of you, slow down, pay second by second attention and anticipate that they will turn in front of you and prepare for the possibility of forced hard counter steering to escape the hazard, looking for the escape will save your life!