The Bike Route Guide was made by the Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana (OKI) Regional Council of Governments to measure stress for cyclists of all levels on roadways used while cycling. Bicycle stress (link to bicycle stress levels in the About section) is measured using roadway type and speed limit, the level of bicycle infrastructure and features of lanes.
Each roadway is assigned a stress value from 1 to 4. Stress level 1 is least stressful and level 4 is only recommended for the most experienced riders. The values reflect general conditions and not rush hour. Most routes will have more traffic during rush hour conditions, which are 7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m. on weekdays. Some routes may be better in one direction than another.
The roadways, including the signed bike routes, are shared with motor vehicles and have no special provision for bicycle travel unless they are classified as a bike lane or shared use path. Cyclists should use appropriate safety precautions, obey the rules of the road, and use their best judgement based on current conditions.