I agree! I do a lot of bike path riding on Kiawah Island, S.C. and also on the neighborhood roads here.

I think I just need to get more assertive and join some of the rides of the local cycling club in the city where I live. I'm not too scared of the roadways, per say, although I would be choosy about where I ride. I'm amazed when I see cyclists riding on the two lane highways down here in the islands -- there's not much room to maneuvre and no shoulder area at all.

Anyway, there's nothing wrong with having healthy fears and I think I'll pass on the 40+mph downhills! Not knocking anyone brave enough to do those things -- it just isn't me!!