Well, due to some lemony snickets i have changed commutes 4 times in the last 2 1/2 years. First was 10 miles, then 12.5, then 13.5, and now 9.5. All with varying terrain. My current commute takes me through the hood for almost it's entirety. I was afraid to drive through this side of town, but as I am car free I had no choice when I took this warehouse job. I don't get messed with surprisingly. I do hear the odd shout, but I can't tell if it's at me so I keep my eyes ahead and keep pedaling.I do have a brinks lock at the end of my cable, I tell myself that I'll use it as melee weapon for comfort. I have come across several other bike commuters so maybe people are used to seeing it more. I also seem to be the only one willing to do it in the street.