Originally Posted by
astrodust
Why do we do this??
The question every individual must ask themselves every day. Is the risk worth the enjoyment? "Risk" is that which is PERCEIVED by the individual.
I have not owned a car since 1989. I've commuted up to 36 miles a day for 18 months. Mostly my commutes are 5-8 miles in a city grid. I have also biked across the USA five times self contained - mostly solo camping. I am no cycling wimp. But I no longer ride a bike for fun. Just the utilitarian trips that are absolutely necessary. Work, grocery, dentist, etc. What finally did me in is complicated and a combination of factors.
1. Rampant Cellphone usage by motor vehicle operators.
2. So many oversized vehicles on the roads - like all of the giant pickup trucks out there.
3. National drug emergency with so many addicted to pain killers AND DRIVING.
4. Plus all the usual motorist azzhattery.
So I no longer need to ask the question. I'm done. Been done for about three years now and no regrets, only relief.
Hope this helps. Cheers.