I would like to ride a bike but am nervous about sharing the road with cars. There is a road that I would have to take (no other options) that has a “bike lane” but it doesn’t seem safe to me (narrow, has debris, worried that cars won’t see me) Am I overthinking it? Would you ride the bike lane or the car lane?
by Soupfan323
3 Comments
I would not ride in that bike lane. Maybe ask the town/city to clean it up?
As for taking the lane, what’s the speed limit for cars on that road?
Both. The road is wide enough to allow a car and a bike with 3 foot apart judging by your pic. Use a mounted flashing red light on the back of your bike and use a left hand signal early to indicate your intention to take the lane when/if there is debris in the bike lane.
Being nervous is 100% normal and rational! And yes, frequently bike lanes are not prioritized- so are often narrow and not maintained so have debris, which sucks! However! That doesn’t mean I won’t use them when they are there! My advice is to get comfortable on your bike- first make sure you have some bike skills- like, can you peek over your shoulder without wobbling, are you able to stop quickly etc. Practice somewhere like a park or bike path so that you are confident on the bike before trying to ride in traffic. I’d also say build up your tolerance and exposure- like, just do a few blocks to start out, and be proud of your accomplishments when you progress!
All that, I would totally ride this! Note, I wear a bright safety vest and use lights, and keep in mind to ride defensively all the time.