St. Johns Bridge ?

[BillD]

What is the best way to get accross the St. Johns Bridge alive? Sidewalk? Take the whole right lane? Doesn't seem to be enough room for a car and a bike to share a lane. Does anyone use this bridge regularly? I live in Scappoose and would like to avoid going all the way to the Broadway Bridge to cross the river.
Thanks,
Bill D.

[cycling fool]

You can take the sidewalk (it was supposedly redone to make this easier; I'll let you be the judge of this.) or take the right-hand lane. If you do take the lane, it's better to ride in the middle of the lane; otherwise, cars WILL try to pass you inside the lane. I guess which option appeals best is dependent on the time of day/day of the week. Good luck.

[Jonathan Maus]

I definitely prefer to take the entire right lane. But I think it's smart to do whatever you feel comfortable with. If you're a recreational/casual rider, the sidewalk might the best choice. While I want to say, "everyone take the lane!" I realize that this might be a little hair-raising for some folks.

I take the lane and try to keep up as quick a pace as possible. I also make sure to be quick with a smile or wave if/when I feel a motorist might be pissed that I'm on the road.

By the way, if anyone's interested...below are links to my coverage of the St. Johns Bridge debacle:

Cyclists get shafted on the St. Johns Bridge

Cyclists on the St. Johns Bridge

Naked ride protests St. Johns Bridge

St. Johns Bridge lanes get painted