i second Lemond1985's post (#3). the commute time home seems a little worse for cyclists than the commute time to work but it's close. it's really difficult on high speed thoroughfares/3-4 lanes wide streets...
especially when there's no dedicated bike lane/shoulder. it's just best to avoid those avenues amap. sure, sometimes it's nearly impossible to avoid jumping onto one or two for a short spell during those
times but you quickly realize (if you didn't know before) you need an offramp/alternative. the safest way for cyclists is rarely the straightest line.