Originally Posted by
sudoshift
For the most part its road only and save the sidewalks. But it is extremely area-specific. I've mention this on other threads and sidewalk cycling is accepted and almost the standard here in Pacific Beach San Diego. All you see is mostly beach cruisers, I have a few co-workers that sidewalk commute.
Generally its an accepted practice here. I tend to take the sidewalk over small stretches, especially this specific two-lane section that has horrendeous road conditions.
Totally agree with what you say, except that "here" means "an extremely limited area of San Diego". Elsewhere in SD, road biking is more common. In areas where both road and sidewalk is available, there's no clear preference of riders.
I have to say, though--I had to walk the bike most of the way home last night (long story), and almost got creamed twice by cars pulling out of driveways; this is despite my blinkies going (but no headlight). I think motorists tend to pay more attention to the road than the sidewalk. It was a very interesting experience.