Sounds like weekdays are the issue more than weekends. I discovered night rides last year when I still lived in the inland empire. I'd go out at 7pm when it was already completely dark out and have the roads almost to myself. It was so quiet I could even listen to music without fear of it distracting me. All you need is good lighting and some reflective clothing to be safe after dark. Not much you can do about travel though. I just try to make up the rides I miss as much as possible when I get back.