342: Solo vs. Group Riding

The Pedalshift Project: Bicycle Travel Adventures

On this episode... why you might choose solo touring compared to group bicycle adventuring (or vice versa!)

Solo Riding

• Freedom and independence
• Opportunities for self-discovery and personal growth during solo tours.
• Much easier to plan - no schedule coordinations with other riders
• Much easier to pace
• Solo Touring Challenges
  • Safety concerns
  • Loneliness
  • Gear watching when inside stores
  • Expenses not split
• Mitigating these challenges
  • Listen to episode 340 on safety - planning and prep is key
  • Listen to episode 341 on mental side and lonliness - be present and in the moment and have ways to connect when you need to
  • Your gear is safer than you think, but choose where you stop mindfully
  • Find ways to reduce costs - check out Pedalshift 045 (camping over hotels, cook your food, etc.)

Group Riding

• Camaraderie and sense of community
• Benefits of sharing experiences and responsibilities with fellow cyclists.
• Memories maybe deeper?
• Group Touring Challenges
  • Logistics of planning and executing a group tour
  • Clashing personalities
  • Differing speeds
  • Differing expectations
  • Differing priorities
• Mitigating the challenges
  • Importance of communication, leadership, and teamwork within a group.
  • Tips from our chat with Guthrie Straw in Pedalshift 163

Making the Decision: Solo, Group, or Both?

• Solo or group touring is a personal fit for your preferences and goals.
• Consider best of both worlds - combining solo and group touring on the same journey.

Conclusion

• There is no one size fits all answer
• The choice between solo and group touring depends on individual preferences and circumstances.
• Reflect on their touring goals and consider trying both solo and group touring at different times.

November on the Pod

• Fall tour preview next week - a box checker!
• Tour journal!
• Interview in the works on a topic I've been really wanting to cover!