I moved last year to an apartment that allows me to ride through a park to other roads on which I can access my beloved country roads. The problem is that the .5 mile road between my apts and the park entrance is insane busy - with very, very narrow lanes and fast traffic. There IS a bike path on which I can reach the park - but I have to cross this very busy and narrow street first. I have stood there for as long as 10 minutes to get across

I've been afraid to just ride down the street, or just come home that way. Yesterday I decided to come home this way - to ride down the street instead of the bike path. I waited to start until there was a lull in EB traffic - didn't want to slow down a long line of cars.

It was fine of course, but I noted that everyone who passed me had to get out into the other lane. Well, that was their choice, but it is a very busy stretch of road. There was only one jerk who kept beeping at me, but he gave me plenty of room

My two options are just to take the lane completely, or return to the bike lane and deal with crossing the street. Frankly, I think the latter is safer and that is what I will do unless the bike lane is flooded as frequently happens.

I am proud of myself for trying it - and I wasn't afraid at all That was the most traffic I've ridden in...though it was for < a mile.