Motorists think bikes, buses, other cars shouldnt be in their road so they can go as fast as thier car is capable. I would prefer to ride on the road since with 2 lanes each way there is plenty of room for motor traffic to get past at 55 mph. However if I were riding with my wife at 8 mph we would go in the path as we could go side-by-side chatting as we cruise along. Other people might choose the path as they dont want to negotiate the roundabouts. Each person should be able to make their choice according to there priorities at that time.