Hey - I've got a pretty big trip planned this summer with my brother - leaving home in Minneapolis to the west coast and back - a 5000 mile trip - was just wondering if anyone travels alone on a bike trip of that magnitude - I'm sure there are, but how do you plan different from riding with someone? Any safety concerns? I've always had my bro to go with but was considering heading out on my own for the thrill of it sometime.

 

I've done a lot of riding by myself.

I'd suggest that you don't drive after the sun sets or before it rises.
All kinds of wildlife on the roads.

Also, I try to avoid rush hour traffic in major cities.
Too many people trying to get to work or get home, quick.

A cell phone is a necessity, as is a credit card.
Be sure that you have your I.C.E. information entered into your phone as well as an emergency contact card in your wallet.
A spare bike key and a little "emergency" cash safely stashed away in your luggage is a good thing, just in case.

A small tool, tire repair/compressor kit, a flashlight and a syphon hose should always be in your saddlebag.

I try to stay in busy motels that either have a lounge, or are located close to restaurants and bars so I can eat/drink without riding the bike.
If you camp you may want to keep a "collapseable" cooler for water, beer, snacks so you don't need to go out for food.

If you can legally carry a firearm, you should.
If not, perhaps a small pocket knife or even a multi-tool is better than nothing and may deter criminals-in-training.

 

I go on one solo trip a year, but usually only have time to do 2,000 to 3,000 miles. Never been on more than a day trip with anyone else.

I like the freedom of being able to do what I want when I want and ride as fast or slow as I feel like.

The only thing I do other than what has already been mentioned is I call my wife at least once a day to tell her the area I am riding so she has at least some idea where I was the last time she talked to me in case I disappeared.

Dennis

 

I'm new but added the "find my friends" app to my iPhone. My wife to be can pull me up on her phone and see if I'm moving or where I am. I ride evenings out in the country some and the concern is if I went down and there wasn't anyone around to know. At least she can see if I'm moving... Not a good app if you don't want your significant other to know where you are..except you can turn it off and limit when you are visible.

If I were on a long trip I'd have someone with the ability to track me and checkup on me every now and then...

We know a rider who went down and was not found until the next day..

 

I travel almost exclusively by myself.

 

Best advice I have ever read on this forum! I'm sharing this tip with all my friends. Sometimes you don't want to be found, but when you do this is a great idea. A lot better than calling when you get there!
-Ryan

 

I prefer to go alone, haven't did that many miles in one trip *yet. I saw a post a while back about an ID wristband type thing, http://www.roadid.com/Common/default.aspx

My girlfriend got me one and I wear it anytime I go any trip especially alone. It has my emergency info etc on it, in case you're not conscious or unable to talk.

If you're interested in that google road ID coupon code and you can save a dollar or 2.

Lots of good advice on this thread , good luck and ride safe.

 

Hey Homie,
I did the ride from Fargo to La once. Finally turned west in Mobile!
It's great to ride with a bro and have company and share expriences, but most of my riding since 74 has been solo in the states, vietnam and kashmir.
Decisions are easier and more opportunities become available. And regarding concerns of trouble from being alone use your common sense regarding compromising situations, there are equally or more pleasurable invitations from the curious and those that just want to hear a story and support your adventurous spirit.
Along with all the other good comments to the post I say enjoy the ride. When you are out for an innocent and friendly adventure you will meet similar people who will be of great help and become good friends.
Ride safe

 

I have been riding across the country alone every year (round trip = 10000 miles), in the last 15 years, and I always have the same feeling at the beginning every time: worrisomeness. I think this kind of psychological element has made my trip more enjoyable.
I only have a suggestion: a bike to bike communication system will be a plus for a trip with more than one bike.

 

Agree 100% with Rush. Just added this app to my iPhone and the family. I ride alone a lot and this hopefully will give them the ability to see my whereabouts.

Thanks a lot for the info.