I used to be an adventurer like you. Then I almost took a 3 ton truck to the knee twice in a week and hung it up. I got a family.
My family rides on a cargo bike.
(Pictured: the same model bike, but not my actual family)
And what of the trucks and people texting? I straight up saw someone doing a FaceTime while driving 2 weeks ago. I’d be hesitant to drive a small car, let alone a bike.
Avoid the busy roads and do a mixture of aggressive and defensive cycling. Take the lane if it’s not safe for others to pass, and take side streets instead of busy roads. Your goal is to be seen and avoid the angry drivers.
I bike commuted every day for years and had no problems. I just changed jobs and it’s too far away now, but I really miss cycling to work.
¯\_(ツ)_/¯ We’re not cowards, I guess?
Statistically, utility cyclists live longer than drivers. Although I can’t find the study itself to be sure, I believe that’s considering all factors including car crashes.
