a couple confident women taking the left turn lane on El Cajon Blvd.

So, is cycling on San Diego’s streets safe? Yes, it is. Without a doubt. Statistically, riding a bicycle is much, much safer than driving a car. The only thing safer than riding a bicycle is riding public transportation or flying…

But the real issue is not whether cycling is safe (it is) but whether riders feel safe riding on our streets. They don’t. While we live in an almost-ideal cycling climate, I am convinced that most San Diegians do not ride for transportation purposes primarily because they don’t feel safe. 

Our transportation network has been designed to accommodate those who commute by vehicle, to the detriment of all other road users. The roads have been designed for driver safety, comfort, and convenience to the detriment of virtually everyone else. BikeSD firmly believes that most San Diegans desire a safer city, a quieter city, a more sustainable city, and a more vibrant city — something cyclists promote. But our leaders have failed in their duty to make San Diego a better city. And that is the real tragedy.

voiceofsandiego, 21.06.12.

TRUTH. (also see study by a UCSD USP senior sequence alum about perception of cycling safety in San Diego)

but bring along at least one friend to ride along with you, and you’ll be invincible. what also works great is holding hands with friend cycling on a bike route—claiming that “bicycles may use full lane” sign and sharrow markings to max intent.

ride with friends and new friends! photos (my own) from Bike the Blvd, 19.05.12.