We're pretty lucky in my area that trouble just seems to stay away from our paths for whatever reason. I really don't understand why they're not a more popular gang and/or homeless hangout, but they're not. Maybe it's just that there's nothing to really do there except walk the stupid path. They will typically connects some parks to each other, but there's usually nothing on the path itself except dirt. Maybe it's just that people like me are vigilant and report trouble quickly. On certain parts of some paths, there are some issues sometimes. I definitely get a little tense when a pack of teens comes riding the opposite direction, but usually they're pretty polite. You can't really tell the difference between normal teens and gang members anymore so you never really know when you need to be on your game and when you can relax. I actually live in a fairly rural area: a very good neighborhood. My 15 mile commute takes me through some rough sections, though.

I work with an older gentleman who rides to work everyday on his bike. He won't ride anything that is even remotely new. He gets his bikes from the trash, fixes them up and rides them. No, he's not broke by any means. It's just how he is. Some years ago, someone shot him with a pellet gun. Who the heck would shoot at an old man on a bike with a pellet gun? Last year, someone stole his bike. An old, rusted, POS, 3 speed cruiser. There are some very strange and sick people out there.