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Bike Commute on Busy Roadways

kaleas
kaleas Posts: 200
edited January 11 in Fitness and Exercise
I need some help planning my new commute on my bike. I used to ride 6 miles one way to work. I had a few busy roads I had to travel on, but they always had huge shoulders so it wasn't a problem. My work recently relocated. It's a bit longer of a ride at 8 miles, but it seems no matter what I try in Google Maps, I cannot find a route that seems "safe" to bike. I have to cross a major highway on/off ramp set no matter what way I take. After I cross over that, all 3 routes have zero shoulder for the next 3 miles.

However I don't want to give up the idea of biking once or twice a week like I used to. So I'm looking for any insight on how I can make my ride "safer".

http://goo.gl/maps/YBQgT

You can see the route here that I would have to take. The entire span of Fruitville Pike after the highway lacks a shoulder whatsoever. I'm wondering if even with bright colors, if it would be enough to make sure cars going 45-50 would look out for me.

Replies

  • jimmie65
    jimmie65 Posts: 655 Member
    I wouldn't. I commute by bike and wear bright colors, as well as lots of lights. Even on the shoulder, cars come way too close.
    All it takes is one idiot texting and you're hospitalized or dead.
  • capnrus789
    capnrus789 Posts: 2,736 Member
    It might be best to leave earlier and take a longer route. I'd never trust a motorist to see me, even with a bright yellow vest and flashing lights.

    I'm jealous, though. I've got 25 miles one way by car, and it's definetely not a safe route for a cyclist.
  • kaleas
    kaleas Posts: 200
    It might be best to leave earlier and take a longer route. I'd never trust a motorist to see me, even with a bright yellow vest and flashing lights.

    I'm jealous, though. I've got 25 miles one way by car, and it's definetely not a safe route for a cyclist.

    That's what I've been trying, but no matter what I have to cross the highway. After that I can find small neighborhoods to weave in and out of. it'd add a few miles, but it'd be worth it. My biggest fear yet is the people getting on and off the ramps. I had to deal with that before on my commute and every day I'd have people try to cut me off to beat me to the ramp. It was definitely an adrenaline rush.
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