I don't ride in the city a whole lot (2 or 3 times a month) so my opinion only counts for so much but...

I very much appreciated the bike lanes in Cambridge the first few times I rode into the city. Good to get used to city riding a bit until I got the confidence to start taking/splitting lanes. Doorzone sucks, but like others have said its nice to treat it as a wide shoulder and just hug the left side of the bike lane.

The key to getting around Boston, I think, is to realize that everyone on the road, be they on four wheels, two wheels, or two feet, will go where ever they like when ever they like. As long as you know where you're going and can get there fast you're all set, once you start slowing down or being lost you're screwed. Personally I kinda like the cantankerous nature everyone has, keeps things fast-paced and fun. I figured out the first time I drove a car in Boston that not only does everyone drive like an arsehole, but if you don't drive like one you're in fact a bigger arsehole. We work hard for our Ma55hole status =D