Originally Posted by
SlimRider
If you commute within the typical large American urban center, then cycling can be dangerous.
As a general rule, the further away you get from the urban center, the safer cycling gets.
Order of Danger:
Large Urban Centers > Small Urban Centers > Suburban Roads Paved > Suburban Roads Unpaved
* Danger meaning increased stress level due to traffic. In each case above, usually you'll have less traffic as you go from left to right.
Sorry Slim, but I have to completely disagree with you here. It's been my experience that the city is one of the safest places to ride. Speed limits are lower, traffic flow control is better regulated, and people (cars/bikes/pedestrians) are typically in a heightened state of awareness.
In the suburbs, you have higher speeds, which cyclist can't manage, more curb cuts, less flow control, high speed turns and poor road design. Factor in with that the suburban entitlement factor and you have some dangerous roads.
No disrespect, but I would rank my most dangerous as;
Most- Exurbs/suburbs/rural/city center. -least
Just aside; where exactly do you find un-paved suburban roads?