The only way out is through

Riding in Merritt Island, FL. This bridge is the safest way back to the island. It’s actually not TOO shabby. But definitely a bit narrow and traffic moves fast.

The trouble is, the bridge getting off the island. It doesn’t have the nice raised sidewalk pictured here. Imagine just the shoulder lane, with a sign before the bridge saying “share the road” with a picture of a bike. Cars drive 50mph+ and drive inches away from me almost feels as if they are driving that close intentionally. Also, this is a popular tourist area so people are driving rentals that they don’t know how to drive, in an area they’re not familiar with, distracted by a beautiful view. The ride up the bridge is quite steep and the only elevation I ever get in Florida, so my legs aren’t used to it yet. On the way off the island I typically hop off and walk my bike. To the top of the bridge then ride it down. Sometimes I do the same on the way back to the island as well.

I always hit my PR top speed on the way down the bridge. 38mph.