On my commute I ride wherever I need in order to maximise my chances of reaching work/home in one piece in a reasonable time (I am usualy quicker than driving):
I cycle on roads in (what I understand at least) to be a vehicular manner. I can´t say this is particularly fun as I am also relying on drivers (who have a lot less to lose than me) doing their part. The chances of an accident may be lower but if it happens it will probably be a big one.
I also ride in bike lanes/paths. Can be a little better than riding on bare roads as at least I have a part of the road that is unquestionably mine and most motor vehicles stay out of it. Also if necessary I can ride out and claim the road (with some increased harassment from cagers as they think I should be using the bike lane). There are some dangers and increased delays at intersections but the dangers at least can be largely predicted. The chances of a collision at intersections are probably increased but at least I can probably survive going across a car hood.
Some bike lanes/paths are however clearly unsafe to use at any reasonable speed and I, or course avoid these.
Bike trails away from the roads: the best option. Complete absence of cars. Also more relaxing to ride on. Of course there are dangers and you need to pay attention but I would rather hit a rollerblader than a cement truck anyday.
Sidewalks- useful for shortcuts with appropriate care and getting off the bike where necessary if there are lots of peds/police
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only the dead have seen the end of mass motorized stupidity
Plato
(well if he was alive today he would have written it)