Tolerence for high traffic volumes

[Catrin]

As much as I ride, it is all on country roads. Traffic doesn't scare me there but it isn't particularly heavy and there are few stop signs and next to no stoplights.

In downtown Indianapolis, plans are in place to open a "bike port" literally across the street from where I work! Plans are to have 200 bike lockers, showers, miniature workout place and even a small mechanic/retail option. Sweet! It won't be open until early summer and I am already considering taking advantage of this opportunity.

This may seem a silly question, but what is the best way to increase my tolerance for high traffic volumes? I have to admit that I find the idea of a stop-light every block and the higher traffic quite intimidating. I do not have a riding partner, my speeds are slow enough that I would hate to ask someone to ride with me as I would slow anyone down.

I am thinking that the best way to start is to figure out an optimum route and ride it on a Saturday morning when traffic is low to see if it really is a good route.

[indysteel]

That's what I would suggest, Catrin. Out of curiosity, how many miles is it from downtown to your office, and at what times of day do you think you might be commuting to and from work? I was always under the impression that you work pretty early hours. How does that factor into your comfort level?

[Catrin]

It is only about 13-14 miles, and I would likely leave home around 6am. It is the return trip home that has me nervous However, I do remember when the thought of cycling outside of Eagle Creek Park was terrifying, and I got over THAT

[indysteel]

If you really do want to bike commute, then I would suggest just generally adding some urban riding into your routine. I got used to riding in traffic by following the route used for the Broad Ripple/Butler weekly training ride route "hosted" by CIBA. It is marked so you could follow it on your own.

Some of CIBA's dinner and weekend routes would be good for that purpose, too. I would start there before doing a weekday commute into downtown.

[Jolt]

Keep in mind too that with such frequent stop lights, the general traffic speed will be pretty slow so you might be able to keep up with traffic at times. It's also less intimidating when you don't constantly have cars flying by...it might not be as bad as you think.

[Catrin]

Good ideas everyone, and I will follow up on them. I think it is the idea of having to stop/start so often that has me a little intimidated for some reason. The "bike port" won't be opening until early summer assuming that nothing happens to slow it down, so I have at least that long to see what I can do about changing my comfort level and deciding. I just think it would be a good addition to my routine if I can build it into my regular schedule.

Then again - my average ride right now is close to the same distance as a full commute both directions, and by early summer it will be longer - without more than 1-2 stoplights. I would get more miles in by just riding in the evenings when I get home - but I would like to try it just to see what it is like. We shall see.

Thanks! Indy, the Thursday night rides out of BGI would likely be a good start, good idea....