Twin-I live in far NW OKC and teach in Moore. The easiest/safest way (traffic wise anyway) is to head to downtown, then turn south toward Moore. The "iffy" part is just south of downtown on Shields. It's very dark, and when I've ridden there during the day I've encountered people who like to yell a lot. That was only twice, tho- so I know I shouldn't judge it based on those couple experiences. South side folks actually seem more considerate to bikers because more of them use a bicycle for transportation. It's the Nichols Hill's monster SUVs and Hummers that I worry about running me off the road.

I'm *sorta* familiar with Tulsa, and I think I know where you are talking about. That might be a little hairy, but sounds like you never had a problem. Realistically, I've read that many crimes are committed by people who know each other, and the others are opportunistic crimes. I try to believe that nobody will jump out and abduct/rob/kill a sweaty biker in the morning or evening- especially with a backpack and rear rack stuffed. If I tried to make myself look a little crazier, they might just avoid me altogether... hmmmm...