So the reason to return on the west side of the river is (1) old habits die hard, (2) by the time you get there, you've already forgotten the pavement is not so good, (3) if you keep using it enough, the pavement will get better, or (4) time to HTFU?
Mostly 3, partly 1. I am vulnerable enough now that any attempt at HTFU is to be discouraged. The west side has worn in enough that a few miles on it really doesn't bother me. When they first did it it was truly horrible.
