Bicycling in Panama City - Risky, but Possible

I live in a section of Panama city where everything is close, but too far to walk if you are short on time. My girlfriend keeps the car and I bike when we need to go to seperate places.

Everyone says "Biking in Panama is dangerous!" I agree and disagree. It is dangerous, but it can be manageable if you don't mind a little excitement and you follow these simple rules I've developed:

1. Do not EVER ride you bike in the street (cars will honk and run you over or off the road).
2. Stick to main streets (they are likely to have sidewalks).
3. Always ride on the sidewalk.
4. When crossing a street, make sure its safe, then GET OFF your bike and WALK IT across the street (people can have time to see you if you are walking).
5. When on the sidewalk, slow down and proceed cautiously when you come to a driveway.
6. If people are walking and blocking the sidewalk, get off the bike and walk it around them then get back on it.
7. ALWAYS keep an eye out for **potholes, open drains, manholes, etc** in the sidewalk and street. (Garbadge bags and other debris might also be in your way).
8. If its raining, do NOT ride your bike...OR ride it very slowly and cautiously.
9. Always wear some sort of athletic shoe and don't carry anything in your hand (use backpack if needed).
10. Be prepared to get off your bike to get on/off the sidewalk (or be ready to jump up to get on the sidewalk)

Common sense stuff:

Wear a helmet and bike light.

Get a bike chain and lock your bike in a visible place.

Follow these rules and you will be fine.

***If you are looking for a casual, worry free ride, then DO NOT BIKE in Panama unless you go to a park.