Why do people cycle on busy roads?

[GrumpyOldGuy]

I think habit also plays a part. The strange thing for me is if I am used to riding on a road I feel comfortable there, no matter if its busy or not. When I lived in Midrand I would cycle down Allendale road, most folk thought it was crazy, but I felt very comfortable because I knew the road and the flow of traffic, I also rode at much the same hour every day, so, often I even saw the same cars and faces of folk on their commute to work. That, I believe also played a part, I sort of felt folk I saw regularly expected me there and I felt quite fine, never, ever had an issue.

 

On the other hand when I went riding with my mate who lived in Meyersdal Alberton I felt very unsafe, mainly because I didn't know the roads and wasn't familiar with the traffic patterns etc. even though many of the roads we rode on were wide and not much traffic. 

 

It was much the same when I moved here, initially I was petrified of the traffic on busy roads, but as I became accustomed to the routes I ride and familiarized myself with the traffic patterns I felt more comfortable, now I am fine, I often ride in very busy traffic, but because I am comfortable with my surroundings, I feel safe.

 

I think accidents can happen anywhere, not only on busy roads, but if one feels confident where you are riding, I think that tends to also limit nervousness which in itself can lead to an accident.

[Tumbleweed]

Came across this in a comic art book I have been reading. From a graphic novel called Rumble Strip...