I have a different situation/ mentality. I'm probably not a true cyclist in some peoples mind, but that's OK. My bike of choice is a non-suspension adventure bike or mountain bike. I take back roads as much as possible. Ride on side walks when necessary, yielding right of way to pedestrians. Jump a curb to get into a park and avoid a real busy road. I have my mirror so that if necessary I can jump off the road. Somehow I have made it work for me.