Originally Posted by
smurray
I'm going to start commuting to fall on my SS bike, and have a question about the best way for me to ride. I teach at a school that's a fairly short distance away, maybe 2 miles. To get there however I have to ride on two very busy roads (especially in the mornings). The roads have two lanes going each direction plus a turn lane in the middle. The speed limit is 40mph, though I'd say the good majority of people go at least 50. There's no shoulder. Should I still attempt to ride in the street? I know it's not illegal here, as the law says if the speed limit is 40 or higher you can ride on the sidewalk. Just wanted some outside input before I made my decision.
What is the sidewalk like? Empty or full of pedestrians? If you ride the sidewalk are you prepared to keep your speed down and check parking lots for cars going out every time you cross a drive? Are you prepared to keep an eye on the street for cars turning in? And on the sidewalk you should yield to EVERYTHING. Some sidewalks are a workable alternative to heavy fast street traffic and some are not. Riding on the sidewalk is as safe or dangerous as you make it.
Don in Austin