Solo Cycling or Social Cycling

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Bruce Bussell solo cycling across Texas in 2020
As an avid cyclist, I prefer riding alone for long distances. The freedom to ride at my own pace and take breaks whenever I please is exhilarating. This sense of control and independence is what makes cycling a fulfilling experience for me.

One of my memorable rides was in New Mexico, where I rode 45 miles away from the nearest town. It was just me and my bike, and I relished in the solitude of the journey.

While I have participated in group rides before, I find that some groups can be competitive and testosterone-driven. There is always that one person who tries to outdo others, which can be a turn-off for me.

As for challenges, I enjoy pushing myself to complete rides spanning hundreds of miles over a few days. However, I am not a competitive cyclist and do not partake in races. While I respect the dedication and hard work of racing cyclists, it is simply not my cup of tea.I have been on a few long tours over the years and have encountered a few groups. Many of the cyclists were very friendly and I enjoyed talking to them.  Sharing stories is always fun. If you are having a particularly tough day a group can help you out a lot and give you the encouragement to pick your day up. The social aspect of cycling can be fun. Everybody has their own feelings regarding groups.

I guess what I am trying to say is that you have a choice. You don't always have to lock into riding in groups and you don't have to lock into become a lone-wolf solo cyclist either. Let's take a look at each kind of cycling and understand the upsides and downsides of each.

Cycling is a popular form of exercise and transportation that can be enjoyed either as a solo adventure or a social event. Depending on your personal preferences and goals, you may prefer one over the other, or you may enjoy both. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of both solo and social cycling and compare and contrast the two.

Book by Mark Beaumont about Africa Solo Cycling

Solo Cycling

One of the biggest advantages of solo cycling is the freedom and flexibility it provides. When you cycle alone, you have complete control over the pace, route, and distance you ride. This means that you can tailor your ride to your personal preferences and fitness level. Additionally, solo cycling provides an opportunity for introspection and meditation. You can focus on your thoughts or simply enjoy the scenery without any distractions.

Another advantage of solo cycling is that it allows you to disconnect from the world and recharge. In today's hyper-connected world, it can be challenging to find time to disconnect and recharge. However, cycling alone provides an opportunity to clear your mind, reduce stress, and enjoy some quiet time.

However, one of the downsides of solo cycling is that it can be isolating. Cycling alone can be a lonely experience, particularly if you enjoy socializing and connecting with others. Additionally, cycling alone can be less safe than cycling in a group. If you have an accident or injury, you may not have anyone around to help you.

Social Cycling

Social cycling, on the other hand, is a great way to connect with others, make new friends, and have fun. Cycling in a group provides an opportunity to share the experience with others, socialize, and push each other to improve. Additionally, cycling in a group can be safer than cycling alone since you have others around you to offer help if needed.

Social cycling can also be more motivating than cycling alone. When you cycle with a group, you are more likely to push yourself to keep up with others, and this can help improve your fitness level. Additionally, social cycling can be a great way to explore new routes and scenery, particularly if you join a cycling club or group.

However, social cycling does come with its challenges. When you cycle in a group, you must be mindful of others and follow certain rules and protocols. This can be particularly challenging if you are a new cyclist and not used to riding with others. Additionally, social cycling can be less flexible than solo cycling since you must coordinate with others and adhere to a group schedule.

In conclusion, cycling can be enjoyed both as a solo adventure and a social event, depending on your personal preferences and goals. Solo cycling provides the freedom and flexibility to ride at your own pace and connect with your thoughts, while social cycling offers the opportunity to connect with others, explore new routes, and improve your fitness level. Whether you choose to cycle solo or with others, the most important thing is to enjoy the experience and reap the many benefits that cycling has to offer.Tell me what you prefer doing.  Are you mostly a solo cyclist or do you prefer groups? Let me know. I look forward to hearing from you.

Here is the next post of my blog: How a Quality Bicycle Can Payoff

Location: Lubbock, TX, USA

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