Becoming a temporary roadie

[cobra!]

So, while the trails dry out, I'm planning on spending a few weeks really embracing the road bike. I've never tried to be a Roadie before, so a few aspects are kind of a mystery. Like:

1. Is it just a flat-out bad idea to take a road bike on any of the Minneapolis city bike trails? And assuming it is, what are some good routes starting in south Minneapolis that let you haul ass without having to stop for lights and stop signs all the time?

2. I know headphones are a bad idea when riding in traffic… are there any situations where they're reasonably safe?

3. Any other tips to ease the (temporary) transition from MTB to roadie? I have a bike and gear and all; I'm mainly thinking of logistics.

[nigel]

1) your in south mpls, me too, i can show ya some routes. Or you can just take the river road either way around the lakes if you know the route through downtown its easy. Id stay off the paved trails themselves and stick to the road, just watch for cars.

2) headphones are a never in my book, but thats just me

3) if you got the bike and the gear all you need to do is ride, just make sure you stay hydrated, i also always have my cell phone with me when i road ride just in case something happens, like i get hit, or my spare tube blows too and so on.... Might wanna ride with others too, i get bored and find it hard to road ride alone sometimes, but its fun.

D

[fisherbikefreak]

Let's not get into the music while riding debate.

I can help you with question #2. Instead of wearing headphones check out FPSounds' backpack. It allows you to listen to your tunes while not tuning out bad drivers.

http://www.fpsounds.com/shopping/index.html

One complaint: If you jostle the pack around (any kind of jump) it cuts the amplifier's power. Shouldn't be a problem for road riding.