Those are all good questions and it shows you are thinking about being a better, safer rider, which is good. I know it's been said several times already, but find an MSF course and take it! It will advance your knowledge and skill by six months in one weekend.
Also, something that did me a LOT of good was reading this book:
http://www.amazon.com/Proficient-Mot.../dp/1933958359
I highly recommend it.