text: Truly a bad idea.  Pedestrians do not pay attention to what is happening around them and do not expect a bicycle at several multiples of their walking speed to pass them "by surprise".  Pedestrians don't look behind them before changing direction or stopping on a sidewalk and don't signal they are about to do so.  Nor should they have to.  If you are too afraid to get out on the road with your bicycle, then walk or drive, or take a route that has nothing but bike lanes/paths.  Do not place pedestrians at risk.  I have been cycling (and driving) for over 40 years in cities, suburbs and on rural roads.  I use the road, as should you.  (For what its worth, I don't like bike paths because of pedestrians who will walk on them and behave as if they are on a sidewalk (stop or change directions without looking or signalling).  I find the roads far safer.  Bike lanes are better if available, but I don't need them to feel safe.)