That all takes one thing that asleep didn't have -- time; especially #3.Excaliber wrote:
Here are a few possibilities to think about. The way the situation unfolds will determine whether or not they are possible or appropriate:
1. Verbal challenge: "That's close enough. Stop there and state your business." Most folks will stop and say something that will clarify their intentions at this point. Failure to stop would support an interpretation of aggressive intent. If this happens, a second verbal challenge can be used: "Do not come closer. If you do, you'll be treated as a threat to my safety." That's pretty explicit. Anyone who approaches anyway almost certainly has aggressive intent. Your challenge here will be to determine the level of threat and the appropriate response.
2. Improve tactical positioning: Staying on the motorcycle while being approached gives you little flexibility of movement. If the subject gets close, your defensive options would be few. If it looks like he intends to get within contact distance or like he is positioning himself for a weapon attack, dismounting and keeping the motorcycle between you and the subject and/or moving to a position of better cover (behind a tree / light pole / another vehicle, etc.) gives you more options and the subject another opportunity to communicate his intent by his actions. It also demonstrates an intent to deescalate and withdraw on your part. If he pursues you, the subject would be further demonstrating aggressive intent.
3. Take out your cellphone and call 911. Report the situation and the tag number of the subject's vehicle, state that you fear you are about to be attacked, and request police response. Advise the subject that police have been called and are responding. Tell him to either maintain his distance and wait for them, or get back in his vehicle and leave.
From the distances that have been described asleep only had between .75 and 1.5 seconds to act.
I feel that asleep reacted appropriately.