Hi everyone, first post here! (looks like a nice busy forum to me)

I'm hoping to get in shape this year, to prepare for a long commute next year to university, instead of using the car.

The route is 23 miles or 35 kilometers long each way. There aren't many hills, and those there are fairly slight inclines. For the most part its flat.

My concern is that the road is a 70km country road for maybe 3/4ths of the ride. There is light to mild traffic. The style of road is pavement with no passing allowed, and shallow gravel shoulders, the road itself is fairly narrow as well.

Would it be safe to ride such a road?

I have thought about it, and my opinion is that as long as I wear something bright and visible, there shouldn't be problems. Any cars behind me will see me before they get to close, and can pass me when needed.

I'm going to get a mirror for seeing behind me just to be safe (considering the length of the ride, i think my neck might get sore otherwise).

Has any ridden roads at this speed, and do you have any advice?

Thanks!