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Why I Prefer Riding Solo: The Freedom of the Open Road

 

A photo of Bruce Bussell The Old Guy Bicycling on a solo bicycle ride Blog

When it comes to cycling, I’ll gladly admit it: I prefer to ride alone.

Don’t get me wrong—I enjoy the camaraderie of group rides now and then. There’s something special about shared miles and friendly conversations along the way. But for me, the real magic happens when it’s just me, my bike, and the open road. Solo rides offer a kind of freedom and clarity that I rarely find anywhere else.

Freedom and Flexibility

One of the biggest benefits of riding solo is total control. I ride at my own pace. I stop when I want to take a picture or catch my breath. I change my route on a whim. There’s no pressure to keep up with a group or slow down for others. It’s my ride, my rhythm.

Fully Immersed in the Experience

Riding alone allows me to truly immerse myself in the experience. I hear the hum of the tires on the road, feel the wind on my face, and see every detail of the passing landscape. Without the chatter of a group, there’s room to think—or not think at all. It’s meditation on two wheels.

A Favorite Memory: Just Me and the Desert

One of my most memorable rides happened a few summers ago in New Mexico. I was 45 miles from the nearest town, surrounded by desert silence. No cars, no people—just endless sky and my bike. That solitude was electric. I stopped whenever I wanted, snapped photos, and took in the wild, beautiful stillness. It was one of those rare moments where you feel completely free and at peace.

Group Rides: The Good, the Bad, and the Competitive

I’ve done my share of group rides—some fun, some frustrating. The best ones offer great company and shared energy. But too often, there’s that one guy who turns the ride into a competition, pushing the pace to prove something. That’s just not my style. I’m in it for the journey, not the rivalry.

Personal Challenges Over Racing

I’m not a racer. I’m a tourer. I get my challenge from distance, not speed. Multi-day rides, long climbs, and headwinds test my endurance and resolve. When I reach my destination, tired and proud, that’s where the victory lies. It’s not about beating someone else—it’s about proving something to myself.

The Best Part About Cycling: Choice

The beauty of cycling is that it’s yours to shape. Some love the social scene of group rides, weekend races, and coffee shop loops. Others, like me, find joy in solitude and self-set goals. There’s no right way to ride—only your way.

So, What About You?

Do you prefer the company of a group or the quiet of a solo ride? I’d love to hear how you ride and why. Leave a comment and share your perspective—every cyclist has a story.


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Location: Lubbock, TX, USA

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