Madpiano - I know exactly what you mean about all those "bike extras", they can add up in a hurry. Our roads are wider here, but the motorists think they own them. While riding 6 inches from the side of the road I've had people yell at me, honk their horns repeatedly, and one person even threw something at me. When I watch the various European Bike Tours on television, I am amazed at the support the local people give to bicycling, I wish it was like that here.