CBR, I was going to suggest a couple of the aforementioned choices as well.......
#1 .) Go to....or......ride to.......a place where it's safe. Here in Southern California the riverbeds & retired railroads have trails made "specifically" for bikes. In fact, you'll find youtube videos covering things like Santa Ana River Trail, Mountain to Sea 1 & 2, Pacific railroad trail etc. There are LOTS of dedicated places. For those I usually toss my bike in the truck & go to the location.
#2 .) Group ride with the local bike shop. I didn't ride it this weekend, but for the first time, I went down to the local bike shop & watched them start. There was a large group (about 30 bikes) and they ate up a whole lane. Cars HAD to respect the group cuz they were in the lane of the road. Tail lights flashing, group escort riding the outer edge & constantly overlooking the next lane of traffic. It was definitely cool!! I am going to hook up with them soon just to enjoy being part of a group that OWNS a lane of traffic.
If you still like your Sirrus, I'd highly recommend investing 1 or both of the above & see what you can hook up for your area before selling. Summer's coming!!
