+1. I’ve been working 12- to 14-hour days this week, and a couple of co-workers are surprised that I ride in when I’m putting in long hours. I explain to them:

a. It’s the only way I can get exercise during a bad week, and;

b. If I didn’t ride, I’d probably be venting my stress in a manner that would not benefit my co-workers.

Jennifer, I’d second what Ghost said. I’m not sure if you are very experienced with cycling on the roads, but I wouldn’t let a lack of sidewalks deter you. Most of my non-cycling friends assume that the only way to get around is the sidewalk, but my experience has been that the sidewalk makes me invisible to drivers and especially dangerous if I’m using the sidewalk and going against the direction of traffic. It’s the “out of sight out of mind” principle.

You may also be breaking the laws of your state by riding the sidewalk. Though I’ve never heard of anyone being ticketed for being on the sidewalk it could make you quite vulnerable to a lawsuit should an accident occur between you and a pedestrian. It would make their case of negligence against you all the stronger.

You’re a lot safer on the road with the cars than you are up on the sidewalk, though. It takes a bit of getting used to, but after a short time it will be second-nature.

Predictability, positioning and visibility are key for mixing it up with the motorists, though. Hold your line, take up as much of the lane as you need (don’t hug the right-hand stripe) and wear bright clothing/lights/reflectives!

If the road doesn’t allow bicycles, though, the sidewalk is always an option. It’s just not a great option, especially if there are driveways, intersections and parking lot entrances to contend with.