Safest route from Wolves to Brum ?

Hi forum people,

Could anyone tell me what they think is the safest route is from Wolves to Brum ? I have driven it many times, but I don't fancy taking on the roundabout at M5 junc 2 / A4123 at anytime of the day

Regards

Andy

Its not a decent ride...
I've cycled into work (Willenhall Health Centre)l a few times over the last month on the A41 through West Brom, and it sucks ass big time. You may as well have your mouth clamped over the buses exhaust pipes.... add to that the poor road conditions.
I'm sure there's someone here that will know a few options. I'm still not too familiar with the area I'm afraid - but FWIW, don't head out on the A41 for long!!!

Cheers pb, how do you find the other end of the A41 from West Brom into Brum - any better ? maybe I could splice the routes ?

You know what - that wouldn't be all that bad... good call. Its not scenic, but the road condition improves and allows for a good flat sprint at times. Could be a winner mate.

Though I gotta admit it, I do like the run into Brum from the A4123 / Hagley road lights, if I could just avoid the M5 island that would be my route of choice.

Anyone ever cycled the towpath on the Wolves - Birmingham canal ?

Ive ridden from west brom to brum a few times both on the roads and canal.

the only roads seem to be massive dual carriageway type affairs with lots of 44 tonne trucks, usually with no footpath alongside plus barriers etc - so no where to escape from careless drivers.

The canal route from west brom to brum is technically longer but much more straight forward. But the best surfaced parts are very gravely and the rest is very bumpy/muddy/leafy depending on weather. Make sure your prepared for that.

Train!

Anyone know anything about the National Cycle Network ? according to this wiki link, there is a route running from Reading to Holyhead that takes in Brum to Wolves surely ?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Cycle_Route_5