I definitely agree to check with the local bike clubs and shops for advice.

I personally (not giving advice) would try it though. Totally take the lane. The heavier the traffic the better IMO. If you can get a few cars behind you as a buffer from fast moving traffic you should be good.

Nobody in a car is going to like it much but IMO you have every right to use a lane of that road to travel on your bike.


Edit: A rear view mirror comes in handy in spots like this. I prefer the one you clip onto a hat or helmet. Also if you haven't already you may want to consider taking a bike safety class. League of American Bicyclists runs a good one. They teach bike handling skills to handle all kinds of situations like this.