Ferdinand:

The quiet side streets on my alternate route between the Bethpage Bikeway and Cedar Creek Park are not only a way to avoid Merrick Rd; they are also pleasant to ride on. I agree that if you're used to riding Astoria Blvd, Queens Blvd, or any street in Manhattan, Merrick Road is no big deal. But to most of us country bumpkins out here, it's a good enough reason not to ride at all.