Pooks,

Is there somewhere nearby that is considered "safe" for cyclists that you could drive your bike to and ride there? I know there are usually certain streets that are bad and ones that are good for cyclists. Maybe you just live in a bad cycling area and need to ride elsewhere? Or find one safe route that you can ride to get to the better area?

It's pretty typical around here for people to drive to their cycling destination just so they can ride on good roads with wide shoulders or decent hills.

You could also carry mace or Halt! in case someone bugs you. I've never been threatened by a pedestrian, but I've heard from people who have, and it's usually teenagers.

I think being smart and aware is your best defense. And I fear cars way more than I fear other people on the path, but that doesn't stop me from riding on the road, because I have a right to be there, too.

Of course, when I leave the house, BF says "bye" and never asks where I'm going or how long I'll be gone. I wish I could trade you for a little protectiveness!

And it's true, you're much more at risk for injury by getting into a car...

Kate