djlarroc

I rode my bike to work this morning. About an 8 mile ride.

Starts off beautifully on a bike path by my house. Then I got to the metro area.

The ride is about 5.5 miles BP, 2.5 in a heavy traffic area. Some of it has to be ridden on the sidewalk, as it's just too dangerous to ride the st (IMO) including a bridge over a freeway w/2 entrances/exits on each corner.

On the sidewalk area theres a bunch of little shops, so I had to weave around people and their dogs tied to trees some of which don't like bikes. I felt like "Paper Boy".. that old school video game lol.

Anyway, screw this. I'm not going to ride to work unless I can find a safer route. Not worth it to me. Cool story bro.

Brightwork

I forgot about that game - I used to play it as a kid. Have you thought of taking the "long way"? It might take an extra 5 miles, but at least you go a way you feel comfortable.

helmut

Sack up, ride on the road.

knowledgdropper 

waanfiride

I feel the same way. I stopped riding to work after too many close calls.

djlarroc

I'm going to try a different route on the way home. If I can make it safe to the BP, I will keep riding. Not worth getting smacked by a car to get some miles in.

When I was crossing the bridge, there was a semi truck loaded w/smashed cars waiting to turn right onto the street. I knew there was no way he could see me. So I waited. And waited, and waited. I finally thought he did see me, then I start to pedal (up hill) and the bastid decides to go. Almost felt on purpose. A few blocks later, similar thing w/a garbage truck.

Do you guys prefer to ride in the street in this type of situation? Or should I stay on the SW? The street is really busy w/parked cars so I worry if a car doesn't get me, an opening door will.

My plan after work is to take a side street as far east as it can take me, and move over to the busy street if I have to, to get to the BP.

383

I remember that game. Way old school. On first seeing this thread, I was thinking you were a paper boy or were drafting the paper boy or something.

I stay on the sidewalk in very busy areas, especially where the road turns onto the freeway and cars are rushing in/out at their exit speeds. Just not worth it to risk it.

mrvile

Same here. I thought this thread was going to be about the 11-year old paper boy on the walmart mtb who dropped your slow ass because he rides for a living

djlarroc

Hahahahaha!!!

Well, as planned, I took the side street all the way to the last main intersection. Much better! I still had to cross that nasty bridge though. No other way to get to the bike path. I live south, so I rode north for about 8 miles, then turned back south to finish the day w/25 miles..

gcasillo

..

djlarroc

I love it! Thanks for the pic!

Brightwork

I never go on the sidewalk and always try to stay outside of the "Door Zone"

Enthalpic

Not so fun anymore

https://flashgamesite.com/play1299game.html

Wanderer

You should not be riding on the sidewalk, especially if there are any pedestrians present...........

BarracksSi

If you absolutely have to use the sidewalk, slow down a lot. Ride like a tourist on a beach cruiser.

Eventually, you'll get so annoyed that you'll get back onto the street and wish the cars would get out of your way.

djlarroc

I've figured it out. See post #9.