No actual experience riding in town, but have ridden extensively in the areas around the city. The entire area is known for excellent cycling on and off road. There are several quality bike shops, active clubs, and even a women's specific club;
http://suckcreek.com/
http://eastridgebicycles.net/
http://www.rivercitybikes.net/
and a Trek store
There is an active racing scene for road, mtn, and cyclocross. If riding in town sucks, you are not far from near cycling perfection- Sequatchie Valley (Dunlap, Tn.), rural NW Georgia and NE Alabama, and the mountains of East Tn. It will be vastly different from Central Florida (in my opinion much better). I'm originally from Lakeland, and needless to say I've given up n trying to ride in the area when I'm down there.