From BRAG to RAGBRAI: Why I’m Trading Solo Tours for Shared Road

Quick Take: After decades of solo touring, I’m shifting to shared roads—Oklahoma Freewheel in 2026 and RAGBRAI in 2027. Same love of the open road, new kind of joy: community, stories, and pie.

Why I’m Riding RAGBRAI and Oklahoma Freewheel Next

Even though I’ve decided to hang up my solo touring shoes, I’m nowhere close to done chasing the open road. The difference now is the kind of adventure I want—one shared with thousands of riders moving toward something unforgettable.

From Solo Tours to Shared Roads

For years I chose the rhythm of planning my own route, being alone with the road, and letting each day unfold. Now I’m craving the laughter, the mid-ride conversations, and the festival energy that big events bring. In 2026 I’m riding Oklahoma Freewheel, and in 2027 I’m finally checking RAGBRAI off the list.

Last time I rode a week-long event like these was BRAG — the Bicycle Ride Across Georgia — back in 2001. That was 25 years ago this coming summer. The memories still glow. Time to make new ones.

What Is RAGBRAI?

RAGBRAI (Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa) is a seven-day, non-competitive ride that crosses the state west to east. The route changes each year and wraps at the Mississippi River. It’s not a race; it’s a rolling celebration—small towns, music, showers, campsites, and more pie stands than I probably should be around.

Why Now?

As I approach 70, I think less about miles alone and more about stories, people, and shared miles that turn into something meaningful. These rides check all the boxes. They’re about showing up, soaking in the day, and letting the road stitch everyone together.

Gearing Up (Keep It Simple)

I’m keeping the kit lean but smart for long, hot days and back-to-back mileage. Two items I won’t skip:

• Lightweight tent — small footprint, fast setup, and recovery-friendly sleep. I prefer a 2 person tent for the extra space but there are smaller 1 person tents available. 
• Chamois cream — comfort is speed on day five. I use this one.

Gear Up for Freewheel & RAGBRAI

• Browse lightweight 2-person tents — easy carry, quick pitch.
• Compare top chamois creams — reduce friction, ride happier.

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• Cycling for Seniors: Smart, Safe, and Life-Changing Tips
• Your First Multi-Day Bicycle Tour: FAQs
• Top Cycling Visibility Tips for Riding in Traffic and Low Light

The Road Ahead

The solo touring chapter may be closing, but the story isn’t over. The bucket list just shifted. In 2027 I’ll be rolling across Iowa with a thousand new friends. If you’re out there too, save me a slice of pie.

Have you ridden Freewheel, RAGBRAI, or BRAG? What surprised you most? Drop a comment—I’m taking notes.