[stoic]

I find it strange to give this advice, then provide 3 alternate example routes that add a mile or more of climb to the ride. Gravity isn't friction, per se, but it does pack a wallop all the same, especially if sweat or fatigue (or injury) is a concern.

Are these roads safer or prettier or something that I'm missing from the map?

[dmurray]

Note the author isn't just a commuter, but a somewhat serious competitive cyclist. For cyclists, fighting against gravity is fun, or at least feels rewarding; fighting against friction or wind is not. I don't know exactly why - both simply require more effort - but everyone would agree.

[avitzurel]

I have like 10 routes to and from work and more elevation and distance is the way to go for me (if time is not a constraint).

Being on the bike and riding is not friction for me, trying to find my riding clothes in the morning is :)

Friction is anything that will prevent you from going out, once you're out the longer and harder the better (for me).

[avitzurel]

The way this works (on these routes)

The shortest route is the busiest in terms of traffic.

The longer ones are scenic, less cars for most parts, no traffic lights and much better workout.

The mid-range one is the one I like using the most, I get to do a lot of speed work and work on my sustained power.