Long time Chicago commuter now in pnw looking to start bike commuting again. 14 miles to work one way and most is trail but 2.3 miles is 45-55mph road without a berm, with a casino on the same road. The traffic is anywhere from low to medium. Although the photo looks like a quiet country road, it is more busy than that.
I’ve looked into other routes or cutting through fields or hiking trails without another solution. Can’t switch jobs or move again. I don’t really want to drive with bike to the trail but it looks like that’s probably how it’s going to go because I can’t convince myself it’s safe to bike on this road and partner also not excited about biking on that road. It just feels like a recipe for disaster.
Who does something like this and any tips or thoughts? How do you overcome the fear?
by Carrot_haver
5 Comments
Depending on where in the PNW, I’ve found that drivers are pretty respectful/safe, especially when compared with say the south east. If I were in your clips I would try it out. I would try timing my commute to avoid the heaviest traffic. Make sure I’ve got lots of lights. Invest in a good front and rear camera system. Own the lane at any blind hills or curves. And also check with local cycling groups.
Not a huge deal if it’s only ~2 miles..
I would use multiple lights front and rear, bright enough to be seen in daylight.
I hate 2 lane roads, but I would bike this. It’s pretty safe if you take the entire lane (don’t let cars squeeze past at 60mph). I would use a flag for visibility and Pull off the road if there is a 5 car pile up.
That road looks like it gives plenty of room for drivers to go into the other lane to pass you. Make sure you have lights if you’re commuting at night. Make sure that your riding gear is visible.
At 15 mph, you’re doing a mile about every 4 minutes. So you’ll be through this 2 mi section in less than 10 minutes.
Just keep your wits about you for those 2 miles and you’ll be fine.
I spend most of my commute on 35 mph roads with and without a shoulder. I *might* ride on a road like this if I was in a group. No way I’m riding on this road on my own, though.