What I did was approach closely to the bridge, and I stopped by the edge of it. .I do not know how to look behind me. I let everyone go by in the cluster. There wasn't anyone within three or four blocks. Of course, starting from a standstill slowed me down. I just didn't have the confidence to get to the middle of the lane, and I inched over, as each car passed. (and I am out of shape and I was SLOW). I knew that as long as I made them cross into an oncoming traffic lane they were likely to pay attention. But I just slowly drifted to the right, just from the noise of the cars, and fear.

The bridge was only two lanes, cars were crossing the double yellow line to pass me. And it is not a terribly long bridge, but only because I was going so slow. OH I also forgot, there is a bike warning sign there.

The single lane was a big part of the intimidation factor. If there had been another lane for them to ride in, I wouldn't care, it would be their own fault if I slowed them down, because they should have moved over sooner. Oh, I forgot to mention, it was after 4PM, so there is the evening rush hour aggression factor. The harassment was merely vocal, they didn't play chicken with me, I did kind of expect a beeer can, based on my impression of the vehicle . Also, some or all of these people were heading toward I-5 northbound, which is a major backup this time of day. It will back up all the way to the Expo Center. I wouldn't doubt if I could beat cars on this commute, once I gain a little speed.

Oh, is it legal for them to pass me? I thought I read this somewhere. But I always thought the no pass was due to an obstructed veiw of oncomng traffic. And if there was an oncoming vehicle, who would they take their chances with?

I know that my seating position needs some fixing and that should help my vision. I'll look for a mirror, too. Bought one a LONG time ago, and I misplaced it before I ever used it Can you move it from pair to pair of glasses, or do you need a dedicated pair of glasses? I don't have glasses light enough for night riding yet.

Also, I would not have made this post in any other bicycling forum. I know this is all too common, and it is worse in most other pllaces. But I expected to receive the emotional support from you other gals. I am just so glad that this is now available.When I think back on my high school days during the early 70's there were few coed sports at my school. And the boys' programs were extremely hostile to new girls' sports. Their coaches didn't want the pie cut into more peices. I joined the track team as a sort of political statement, although I despised running.

Oh, I am curious do they still excuse girls from gym for their "monthly"?

You gals are great!
Mary