Originally Posted by
Cyclesafe
Touring forces one to take roads of a sort that can be avoided if cycling around home. Also, one can avoid riding in inclement weather if one isn't compelled to keep moving. Mud besmerched windshields, fog, and low light; narrow winding roads populated with poorly maintained vehicles driven by the drink-addled and reckless. Trucks bearing down in both directions. Thats what's dangerous about cycle touring. There doesn't need to be a long list of "scary" things - this suffices. I rather doubt if any experienced person would dispute this. We've all been there - many times.
I've toured in four countries, in many weather conditions and on roads which range from immaculate to brutal.
The inclement weather isn't a problem if you dress for it. In fact, some of my happiest memories touring have been when I've been caught in heavy rains. At those times, I'm happy not to be in a car.
The bad motorists might exist, but so far I haven't encountered them. In my experiences, the worst have been the seniors in motorhomes. Their driving skills are not all that great anymore, but they are far from reckless.
And as far as riding on roads that can be avoided at home, well, that's part of the charm of touring. If I didn't want to experience those roads, I'd either stay home or I'd drive or fly to vacation spots.