The Older I Get, The More I Crave Riding My Motorcycle Alone
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- čas přidán 10. 09. 2024
- Companionship is important as we grow older, but so too is the freedom that comes with riding alone. Join me on my Triumph Scrambler 900 for a relaxing motorcycle ride through Oregon’s High Desert, and we’ll talk about the benefits of hitting the road solo. And I’ll tell you the one thing I want to do before my time is up.
Come say hi over on Instagram: / bugmotochannel
Filmed on my 2024 Triumph Scrambler 900.
Drone operated as a Part 107-licensed UAV pilot.
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Tech Notes (current as of today):
I shoot these videos mainly on DJI equipment:
• DJI Osmo Action 4 cameras
• DJI Osmo Pocket 3
• DJI Mini 4 Pro drone
• DJI Mic 2 (used with Pocket 3 and in-helmet with Action 4)
• Sony ZV-1
• Fuji X100f for stills
All video is edited in Davinci Resolve Studio on a Mac Book Pro
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Great comments, all!
I'm putting together a rather involved video talking about tips for older riders - specifically, tips for longer-distance riding. We'll talk safety gear, different kinds of bikes for different kinds of people and situations, carrying luggage, getting on and off a loaded bike... I'd love to hear from you with YOUR tips. I'll try and include the best ones in the video. What do you do to prepare for a longer ride or adventure? What do you do when you're finally on the road?
Email me your tips at dan@bugmo.to
- Thank you!
- Dan
The older I get....
The more I want to be alone......PERIOD
Don’t have an itinerary; just have a destination.
Nice idea! Having covered 31 states and over 62,000 miles on my motorcycle, my solo trips were the best. My tip is to enable iPhone tracking or carry a satellite beacon where cell reception is limited so that a loved one knows where you are.
A cross country road trip on a motorcycle is MAGICAL. I’ve done it 4 times…….alone. I road through the Dakotas, the Virginias, the Carolinas, then back home to CA. It takes me about 6 to 7 days to cross the country and that’s a nice pace (that’s a 650 mile a day average). Since I’m alone, I can choose to increase the mileage or decrease it depending on my mood and weather. But it’s 6 to 7 days of beautiful country. Yes, tired motels, a few flat tires, AND prepare for weather. But getting rained on in Vermont, snowed on in Colorado, and 110 blast furnace of the Texas plains…..is all part of the wonderful motorcycle experience. I did it alone, and yes, it’s euphoric getting lost in my own head, since I’m a lone, I take the turns as they come. I point my Harley in the direction I want to go and choose to stop when I stop, go when I go, eat where I eat. All alone. I love it and I loved it. Good luck, God Bless, and have fun.
Before I leave, I pay close attention to the condition of my bike. Consumables like tires, brake pads, chain/sprockets, etc should all be dealt with before leaving. I highly recommend getting comfortable dealing with this stuff yourself. When on the road, coping with the unknown is challenging enough without introducing the uncontrollable variable of an untrusted mechanic. I've been stung my this - more than once. Even a simple botched oil change can introduce unwanted drama. I'll change my own oil in the parking lot of an autoparts store. The big chains have mc oil and (some) filters. Even if you have to buy an oil drain pan, you're still saving money when compared to paying a mechanic. The piece of mind know this was done correctly and completely is priceless.
Also, tires! Make sure you have experience fixing a flat tire. Rubber glue has a shelf life. Don't ask me how I know....
I am 77 now and still ride by myself 3 times a week.I lost my wife at 64 . I went on a solo motorcycle trip through the USA and up through Canada to the arctic circle. 18,000 miles in 3 months.It was a healing journey for me.I also met the greatest people and stopped when I wanted to.I live in ontario Canada.
My condolences brother. May God comfort you.
Shiney side up!
I just did Los Angeles to the Artic Circle this month (Aug 2024). I was with one other rider. I wish I went solo. I did Route 66 solo and loved it.
🙏
There is a joy to riding alone, going where you want to go, stopping when you want to and not being pressured to continue or get back home. That's freedom.
@@CalmBiker Amen!
I’m 78 years old, been riding for 62 years. l no longer ride in groups, solo or one other is more enjoyable…groups spawn competitiveness…which on occasions turns into a pensionista race to a grave yard…
@@brianperry I'm lucky that only once have I been riding in a group and seen that happen. I just puled over, let them go and had a nice solo ride instead.
If you're a non conformist you're home free.. if you're a conformist you'll be trying to grasp what non conformists always knew.
@@pujabelgian Nice insight
I'll turn 75 in a few months. I've been riding over 60 years. I've owned 300 motorcycles. I've ridden well over half a million miles. Most of it alone. A year ago now, I did a 6 week 7,000 mile ride...alone. I had to have triple bypass open heart surgery two weeks after I returned home. As I write this, I'm out on a solo trip...in my toyhauler, and a motorcycle. It's just a life that some of us have chosen.
God bless you Lawrence.
Im 68 with four machines that I ride constantly.
Will stop riding when my heart stops beating.
Hope to see you on the road brother. I love to see older riders. Waves
You, sir, are hardcore!!
Keep it up and ride safe.
I also prefer to ride alone at 58 years
I’m leaving in six days for a cross country and back ride by myself. I have serviced the bike, I have a rough idea of a route and I have a toolkit with essential ingredients. Now, all I need is to throw the leg over and get on with it. At 60 I think it will mean more to me than at 30…I look forward to a few horse conversations.
Why 300 motorcycles? I have had three since 1978. What went wrong? The best rides were camping trips with my girlfriend as passenger.
Just turned 73, been riding for over 50 yrs. Never was big on group rides, but had a few good friends that i rode with. They have all either passed or can't ride anymore. I let it take the joy out of it for me last year. I talked to my son about gifting him my bike. This year, i changed my attitude. I ride every day i can. It's been great.
Congratulations on riding again, I’m 66 and use to ride with my best friend but he passed. So I no longer ride. I read your comments and I think I’ll start riding again. But I need to start shopping for a bike. Thanks.
73 is not that old. Make sure you lift weights a few times a week. Most important thing for human longevity
I'm 68 years old my wife just passed away march 29 2024 so I bought a Kawasaki Z900RS to try and clear my mind and get away from everything it's just me now after being married for 40 years I miss my wife so much so I get on motorcycle and ride for miles by self
I’m 73 too and I love riding alone. I’ve been riding motorcycles since 1969. Recently I rode my bike 🏍️ to France from my home in the Netherlands 🇳🇱. Last year Ireland and before that Sweden, Denmark and twice to Finland 🇫🇮. Although short trips with some of my kids and also great. Ride safe 😊
@@logangodofcandy “Muscle is the organ of longevity”-Peter Atia. I totally agree. 57, and I do strength training 5 days a week. It’s important for aging well.
The more I age the more I wanna do everything alone! Being single is bliss.
I’m 64 and recently back into riding.
I have hiked alone, sailed alone, ran marathons alone (in my head even surrounded by other runners), and now I usually ride alone. It’s not to be antisocial (well…..). I often can’t find someone to accompany me.
I have come to enjoy the freedom of being alone. It makes the times I have company all the more enjoyable.
But I’m sure we’ve all struggled with the reality that sometimes when alone, we wish for company, and sometimes with company, we wish for solitude. Without one, how can we appreciate the other?
I’ve shared many of these experiences over many decades, and I could not put it better. Thank you for reducing it to words.
Exactly! Stay strong, ride on sir!
amen brother! don't ride with groups and don't fly my 1946 Luscombe in groups either. seems like it defeats the purpose of either vehicle! when i can ride my bmw to the airport and go fly my little airplane ALONE it seems like the perfect day. if i can get my 20 yo son to accompany me is the only time it's better.
Ultimately, riding is just you and your bike riding your ride. As an introvert, riding solo is easy and enjoyable.
I love alone time. My wife thinks I must be miserable because she always needs to be conversing. I love the silence. I used to listen to music while I rode but now I just want the hypnotic wind and exhaust notes seeping into to helmet. I find my mind is more at peace while riding this way. The lack of wars within my head is worth the price of admissions X infinity! A calm mind, taking everything in stride. The freedom of Soloing seriously enhances the experience because there's nothing extraneous pulling at your mind. Carry on!
That was a great comment. I’ve been riding for almost 20 years, and always with my music on. Maybe you’re right. Maybe it’s time to turn off the music.
The engine and the wind have always been my music
Just got back from a 20,000km 8 week cross Canada solo trip. Pure magic. Solitude and all the things discussed in this video. I'm ready to do it again....
The only companion I ever needed on my rides has always been whatever motorcycle happens to be residing in the garage at any given time. I have had many in my 50+ years of riding motorcycles. They have always been there for me. They have provided me with endless joy and happiness, they have also subbed for psychiatrists, and mental health therapists on occasion. As I near the twilight of my riding years, I'm increasingly mindful of how much I'll miss Motorcycling. Go out and ride my friends.
Well said.... Thank you. I am 62 years young, I feel great and really like riding alone. The ultimate freedom. Ride safe everyone
Sorry I am doing this one by myself….
you are blessed!
@@chucklemasters6433 And so are you. Thank you, sir.
I'm a 71 yo rider. I have been a rider since the age of 15...so I've been doing this for a while. Truth be told, I have always preferred riding by myself. Your observations resonate. I'm a Christian. Riding alone provides time to be alone, but not alone. Hope you understand. Ride safe.
Yes sir brother I understand.I too am a Christian and 70 years old and I have always rode alone. Out in the country riding with lots of time to think and be thankful.
EXACTLY!!!❤
God Blessuren you.
I'm 74 Rode For 45yrs. Haven't Been On A Bike For 8yrs. Always Rode Alone Don't Like Group Rides! I Like My Solitude! Much Truth In Your Video! I Enjoyed It! Going To Get Another Motorcycle, To Hell With My Doctor!
I loved the freedom of not dealing with personalities. And just do what you want to do.
Was forever riding with others and the associated drawbacks. Most of them still do, personally I was done. The freedom and challenges of riding alone are so liberating. There is always someone up for a chat wherever you go. Now approaching 60, you just cant beat it.
Thank you so much for sharing this excellent peaceful video. Tomorrow I turn 61 and I'm grateful for everything. About 8 years ago I bought a bike from a man in the mountains of Colorado, flew out there and picked it up and rode it back home here to Virginia my home over the next 4 days. Not quite cross-country, but it was everything you described. An unforgettable time alone, just me and my motorcycle, and I treasure the memories it made. I'll keep riding as long as I can. BTW, I agree...as I've gotten older, I avoid big group rides (noble as they might be for charity) and now only have a few close friends I'll ride with, because we know each other and reinforce good riding habits in each other. Keep riding...
If you want to ride across the country, you don’t want a plan. All you need is your bike, and a sense of direction. Go. You’ll love it.
Hey brother, I am 19 years old, and I live in India. I love riding my bicycle alone. I wake up at 4 am every day and go for a ride when no one is awake. There's no one there to judge me, it feels like a zombie apocalypse or the end of the world, and it's the best feeling...💗💗
That's very interesting. I am going to give that a try
@@adventurevin7600 try it , it's best feeling, but drive in safe area.
As a double cancer patient, leukaemia and prostate, l love challenging myself to ride alone.
I'm a guitarist/singer/songwriter well, l used to be 😊 was never famous, thank God but well known locally in Ireland back in the 80s.
I also like the occasional ride out with friends but l prefer to go where l like and gather information about towns and villages and speak to strangers 🤔.
I write songs in the same way a photographer takes pictures if that makes sense.
I've got family in Nigeria Falls and my eldest son works in St Catherine's, so I've been in North America many times.
I love adventure and my illness makes me more determined to test myself.
I'm past chemotherapy and on a Watch and Wait with both conditions or Watch and Worry as some call it.
I guess we all worry about stuff so no change there 😂
Love your channel because it relaxes me,,plus l love the acoustic guitar music which sounds beautifully mellow.
Thank you.
Thank you so much. Is any of your music available to listen to online?
@mikerider58 cheers m8! My prayers and thoughts are with you.
@@Dr.ModNut thank you so much.
@BugMotoChannel l had lots of songs on the old MySpace and have recently found an old cd 💿 which has 10 songs which I'm going to upload on CZcams very soon.
I'll let you know.
Toby Keith said it best with one of his last songs, “Don’t let the old man in”. Keep up the fight.
I’ve always ridden alone, well not actually alone I’m always with me.
..brilliant comment
Yes, we also ride together , all 3 of us : me, myself and I.😉
75 here and still riding dirt bikes. Just came back from an early morning 90 minute ride. Makes me feel FREE & ALIVE here in Southwest AZ. Thanks for this.
What you say makes absolute sense, to those that have experienced it. The act of being alone creates a contemplative and meditative state, whether it riding alone, swimming laps in a pool, walking in the forest. To me, motorcycling, though, adds so much richness to that act of being alone. Thank you for such a cool message.
4:18 don't find yourself bedridden for the rest of your life not having attempted your dream. Love the channel.
No real planning required, just go. See where it takes you. I drove 25k miles across the USA & Canada back in 1992 on my own (I'm from the UK) loved every minute, best thing I've ever done in my life. Hardest part is deciding/committing to do it, the rest just falls into place. Make that trip and relish it, you will come back a different/better person.
Exactly, what's to plan? If you make plans, then you add about a million things to screw up your ride. You can't get lost if you don't give a damn where you are going, you can't be late if you have no timetable or place to be. Just ride and enjoy, now that's a plan!
How did you get your bike over there ? Sounds fantastic, always wanted to ride in the u.s
@@problemslayer3538 Your best bet by far would be to buy a used bike here in America, then sell it when your ride is over. You would probably lose a little money, but nowhere near the cost of shipping a bike to America and then home again. If you are going to end your ride close to where it started, you might buy a bike from a bike dealer with an agreement for them to buy it back at a reduced cost.
Our men's tour on Good Friday is enough for me. Apart from that, I've been riding my motorcycle alone for 45 years. Now and again with my wife on the pillion. I enjoy that. . .
being alone and riding alone is a luxury, not everyone could afford.... it requires a conditioned mind, a rarity these days. Happy for you sir u have found yours....all the best.
Don’t dream about the trip, don’t waste time, just do it. You will not regret it, believe me :)
I'm only 38, and I prefer to do ALL my riding alone. Great video as always sir.
Thank you!
Your essay strikes many chords for me. Freedom. Fear. And loneliness. All part of a special brew that a motorcycle can stir up a strong appreciation of life.
I generally ride alone. And hiked and backpacked alone for the same reasons you expressed.
If you find time read Edward Abbey’s essays on being alone in the wilderness in “Desert Solitaire.” It will expand your appreciation of riding though he would have preferred a horse…
Thanks Steve. Yeah there's really something special about hiking alone. I haven't done that in a bit, but I'm itching to throw a pack on and get out there.
You should definitely do the coast to coast trip.
I‘ve done it in 2010 all by myself with a rental Harley. Started in New York. Them drove to the Grand Canyon(s) and after that to Las Vegas, then back and up to Yellow Stone and over to Stugis and Milwaukee. Then to Chicago and back to New York. All by myself. Me, the motorcycle, a tent and a sleeping bag. 4 weeks of time. It was. The greatest trip I’ve ever done. And then I flew back home to Switzerland. I remember this trip until today as would I have done just now.
Do it! You will remember it for your life. 😊
I also enjoy riding alone more than with others. I've ridden solo across the US. Without a doubt the best trip I've ever done. Don't overthink it, you'll have a great time.
I have been riding and racing motorcycles all my life…I turned 67 this year but the passion has not faded as I put over 5000 miles on my Super Tenere in just the month of July….Ride to live…live to ride.
Im 67 also. I was racing Flattrack in 1972. In Jr High. Raced it for 10 years, along with MX, some trials, some road racing.
But always trailriding and street riding along with the racing. I didnt take 20 years off to raise a family, I kept riding all along.
Lots of dirt riding. Now Im this old I have an 890R KTM, and a 690R as well. I still love to ride, I go do long,long days out solo. No map, no phone, no GPS, I just go. Always find new dirt roads. I ride bicycles also which just keeps the 2 wheel thing going. Mt bike, gravel bike, road bikes. I know people younger than me by a ways, and they talk like they're 80 years old , they are done. Convinced they're too old to get off the couch.
What a waste.
I just returned from a 4,800 km (3,000 mi) trip through western Canada, most of it riding by myself. The word “sublime” kept popping into my head. Everything you said in the video resonates strongly with my experience. Thanks for sharing.
I'm very much looking forward to a trip up north. I'm working on plans to head up to Vancouver and Victoria before summer's over, but i'm hoping to do a much longer trip up there in the near future...
@@BugMotoChannel If you are in Victoria, the roads around Sooke are a dream. I’m planning to post a video on my channel from that ride soon.
@@reelriding2840 every rider coming to Vancouver Island should do the “Renfrew Loop” ideally on a sunny Sunday morning. Mountains, lakes, ocean and beaches. I do it often as a zen time.
I used to work with a bunch of folks that live on Vancouver island. I’d love to take a ride there someday. I really need to move to the west coast. Great video as always.
You've captured my feelings better than I ever could. Riding solo on a motorcycle feels incredibly liberating. You can stop whenever you want-sometimes just to nap under a tree or watch the clouds drift by. Sometimes you make new friends in small towns. I've met so many people this way. This never happens when I travel with others.
So true "Never happens when riding with others"
I used to do a lot of riding on my own, with trips abroad. However it was in the evenings when I used to feel lonely, but now that I am older I tend not to worry about going out for an evening drink and stay in my room. Using my phone to keep in contact with people and I am usually tired and just need to relax and recover so now when I travel on my own I never feel lonely, result.
I do about 90% of my riding alone. My riding buddies tend to ride at different speeds, and I find I'm often checking mirrors when I'm riding in a group, and that gets irritating after a while.
I'm also more flexible with time than friends. I'll get up Saturday, look out the window, and if it's sunny I'll be out in the hills 30 minutes later. Love it
I feel this in my soul. Thank you for sharing, for I too like to ride alone.
What I like about riding solo is the freedom - you can choose the time you start, stop anywhere & as many times you want, return when you want. You can stop overnight & choose to return the next day. If you like a place, you can spend some time there. Peace of mind.
I am 71 now and I bought my first bike at 18.
I have ridden in Utah, eastern Idaho, south eastern Wyoming, Oregon & Washington coasts. Start early mornings on Saturdays & return on Sunday evenings.
I've been dreaming about this since I was 17 years old but never was able to do it due to marriage, family, job, etc. But now after being nearly 71 years old that has always been my dream. I've always been a loner and have been riding motorcycles since I was a child. I commuted to work on my bike in my career and since i'm retired now I think about it more and more. I'm beginning to have health issues and plan to switch to a smaller bike, I have a goldwing now, but it's still on my mind until I can't ride anymore so I get what you're talking about. My advice, go for it while you still can. There'll never be a perfect time so if you can make it happen, do it.
Well said. Twenty + years ago when my wife decided not to join me on my multi day motorcycle trips I mapped and planned a trip from Medford Oregon to Billings Montana to visit my folks. Initially one friend was joining me, the group grew to four of us. It was a nightmare of different personalities and expectations. I got home after ten days of that and told my wife, "from now on I go alone" and I do. Each summer I map out 3500 - 4000 miles to a place I haven't been and back. Alone, I stop when I want or not. Eat what I want when I'm hungry. Stop for photos or not. I plan and think about those trips all year. I turned 70 in January and will continue them as long as I can. I took delivery of my 2023 Scrambler Chrome Edition two days ago and am really enjoying it. My long trips will be on my 2014 Suzuki Vstrom 1000 set up for touring with a Russell seat, heated grips, hard luggage etc. But I love this Scrambler for rides to the coast and day rides through our orchards and vineyards. Be safe !
The Scrambler Chrome Addition is one FINE looking bike.
I'm feeling the same way about my Scrambler. I'm looking for something that might be better at the long trips. I'm wrestling with it because, well, I did 250 miles yesterday on the Scrambler and really couldn't find many complaints. I'm just imaging something more purpose-built for touring would end up better for real long-haul trips....
@@BugMotoChannel Thank you, I'm really liking the bike.
Great video. I've enjoyed riding with others, but most of my riding in the last 20 years has been solo. I've crisscrossed Canada and the US several times, spent 4 months continuously moto-travelling last season and 1 month so far this year. It's easier than you'd think, except for the few times it's harder than you imagined. I'll recommend two things to you: 1) don't wait, life will always get in your way. 2) start small - pack what you think you'll need for a 3 day trip staying at motels/friends and buying your meals as you go. Then just head out; be prepared to cut it short or extend it depending how you feel. That's how you learn what you like, what you don't and what you need (which is almost always less than what you took). Add in camping later if you want (I spend 90% of my travel nights in a tent.) If you're thinking about your next trip the whole time you're riding home from the one you're on, you're on the right track. I'm 68 now and knowing I'll have to stop some time keeps me going. just my $.02 All the best!
Thanks for this. I did a one-night motocamping trip last week and should have brought half the stuff I brought. I took a camp pillow, and didn't even realize I brought it until the next morning when I went to repack my stuff... Live and learn.
I’m in The Dalles and have ridden to Michigan 6 times to see my relatives. The last 4 times I was solo. I rode to the Arctic Ocean 4 times solo. I really enjoy your videos, keep it up.
The older i get the less people have time to Go on a Ride. 😅
Awesome Video as usual!
Sad and good at the same time !!
I'm not old, but I ride alone. I do everything alone. Aloneness is very comfortable. You don't need to do anything you don't want to do
As I enter my middle fifties, I find myself alone on the road more and more. I believe riding is my time to clear my head from the usual mental tonado of everyday life. On my bike, all I want is to get my corner entry speed just right, hit my late apex, and roll on smooth on the way out. No room for all the rest, just the ride. That's the real "freedom" that motorcycle riders are always yammering on about, the freedom that comes from focus on the immediate, and forgetting the rest.
Wonderful video! You are right on for many of us. When I ride alone, many times I have interesting conversations with my self and the subjects vary. Many times an older person will ask me what size is my bike and I tell them it is a 400cc bike. When I explain it is a hoot and since I am older and don't have the strength to lift a heavier bike as I ride alone. You see it in their eyes that it makes sense and normally the conversation turns to the exhilaration of riding a motorcycle and when you see the smile on their faces, maybe you planted a seed in their minds. Do make the plans and make that cross country trip a reality. You will not regret it! Live the dream! Oh, when you take that trip on your motorcycle, I will come along with you in spirit. Thank you for the video. Ride safely.
I rode my sport bikes in remote areas flat out, alone, for many years. I’m 65 now and have mellowed out a bit and currently ride a 701 enduro on and off road, much of the time, alone. Absolutely my favorite thing to do. Hope I can continue for years to come…
Been there and done that on the exact same roads after living and riding in OR for almost 30 years. Since retiring I move to West TX and I am now riding new roads mostly alone. When you can get the time plan a trip going from bike rally to bike rally but ride alone. You will have plenty of time for yourself and time to socialize with new friends along the way when you want. It will be a memory you will have for a life time. I'm still a BMW rider but not sure how much longer so ride while you can!
i've never ridden in a group, don't want to, i like doing what i want, at the speed i want, for as long as i want, i always have, not because im a loner or miserable but mainly because of the reasons you give. cheers
I'm 64 been riding since I was 17. I have ridden from here in northern California to Arkansas for the changing of the colors rally 10 times with friends. in 2019 none of my friends could go so I packed up and headed out alone and had the best trip ever. It looks like I'll be doing it again this year and I'm really looking forward to it. There's no one to complain about anything you just go and have a great ride.
only 6 minutes, but these roads!! So many corners and no other cars.... Bliss! Honestly, I could watch this all day...
I just finished a 3700 mile ride from the Smokies to the Rockies alone. It was one of the most difficult and amazing things I've done on a motorcycle. I truely didn't feel alone until Kansas and then part of the Rockies where I was fairly remote. Remote to me is.... okay, now what, I can't walk for help. If I recommend anything it would be take your time, stop often. I only had 7 days so I felt cheated by being on the bike 10-12hrs a day and blasting past some interesting stops.
After my first bike crash and spend 1 month in bed... going to have my first solo ride to Remove my fair of crash.... I'm coming again..❤
Good luck! I've worried about what it would be like to get on the bike after a bad crash (even made a video about it). Hope it goes well for you.
Keep on keeping on!!!
Hope it goes well for you. I had a crash a few years ago, totaled the bike, put me in the hospital several days. Wondered what it would feel like to ride again. Could i do it? Bought a new bike, rode it home. The worry beforehand was the only problem.
@@williamdavis8161 the same fair but need to overcome it...and the only way is get a ride ...
Welcome back! 🙏🏻
I love your channel!! It’s a very unique voice in the moto vlogging world! Keep up the great work!
I appreciate that. Thank you!
I just turned 77. Dreamed as you of a cross country back roads trip. Did so last year. 4000 miles of introspection and joy. Do it✌️
I just did my first long solo ride through the western US and loved most of it but on a few occasions I wished I had someone to share special moments with. Trade offs.
Same. I still love my fellow riders the same. It's just that it's more meditative being alone and more freedom
Less truly can be - MORE . I’m 64 , 15 surgeries on my body . I’ve had two Hondas , a BMW , and 13 Harleys since 1975 . I actually prefer riding at night . It takes being
“ one with my machine “ to the next level …
God Bless
I have great friends to ride with, but love riding alone maybe a bit more. Go the speed I want (usually slower) and stop and where I want as you noted. Alone or with friends riding is a great gift of life. Your video gets that across well. Thanks!
I'm approaching 70. I've been riding since my father brought home a mini bike for my 5th birthday. I grew up watching my father ride. Riding just can't be explained to those who don't ride. I now have just 2 friends I ride with. I love to sit with my 11 year old grandson and tell him all the motorcycle ride story's I've experienced. I did have the opportunity to, by myself ride over 11,000 miles around our great country of America. I'm still riding and have no plans to quit. Great channel my fellow rider. Thanks for sharing.
Have done numerous tours over the past 15 years (over 30 in total) and each and every one has been amazing!
I just did a 1000 mi solo ride up the West Coast, California to Washington on my Scrambler 900 using only backroads when able.
It was amazing and free. And like you, I stopped and talked to more people and explored everything that caught my eye. You should do your bucket list ride.
Great video 👍
Thank you! Any special tips/tricks for packing up the Scrambler 900? I've got one 30-liter bag that sits on the tail, but as of yet haven't really found any other luggage solutions I like for the bike...
@@BugMotoChannel actually, yes.
I’m about to catch an airplane. But look into a tank bag and a backpack that worked with your 30 liter bag.
And if you have the Pillon seat removed and the little rack, just understand that it won’t carry a ton of weight and it will rock back-and-forth. I actually lost a screw.
I also have the side bag mounted, and I actually have a short video on my channel during that ride where I talked about a can of plexus and a towel for my visor with bugs. That was essential.
@@BugMotoChannel My only feeling on luggage, is that if bump comes to bang? Hard luggage can break things.
Such as legs/ankles/feet. Nobody wants to think about falling down, but even a simple stopped tip over, hard boxes can be not so good. It does seem more secure, but I will stick with soft luggage from here on out.
Im always looking for the perfect tank bag, but for now Nelson-Riggs bags work fine, not too pricey and pretty simple design. The fancier a tank bag is? The less I like it.
I'm a lifelong rider who just turned 70. I ride alone now and am quite happy that way. I clicked on this video because I like hearing from older riders, but I kept watching when I recognized Maupin and later Antelope in the video. I live at the West end of the Columbia Gorge and use the gorge as my route to the High Desert of Oregon and Washington. That area is heaven for road riders, at least when the weather cooperates! You've got a new subscriber. Want to meet up at White River Falls St. Park some day?
55 years of riding, sold my bike because I couldn’t get my friends to ride. The my best friend of 47 years dies, he worked up to two week before his death. I couldn’t convince he to retire, even aftythe gave him six months to live. He died and left me his Gold Wing, nice bike , so I went riding and it felt great! I sold his bike “his bike” and got a BMW r1250 gsa. I love it. And it does feel good to ride alone.
When I ride alone, yes there is plenty of time for me and introspection. Just make sure you distinguish between lonely and alone. Riding with friends is great, but that involves sharing ...
If you are serious about a coast to coast, please check out Craig Ripley's 'Living Off The Slab' videos. He just came back from a 12,000 mile run!
Ned in SC
Yep totally agree. I used to only ride with friends but then Covid happened and I went crazy sitting around and finally went out and conquered the fear of solo riding. Short summary, I loved it and felt so energized/accomplished that I immediately continued and now have gone to other countries and rented bikes alone, and ride every weekend alone, love it.
It's always been hard to find someone to ride with, so most of my time has been riding alone until recently one of my army buddies decided to ride again and it has been a good time, just went to the four corners area and had a blast. Looking forward to the next time we ride together. Will still do the alone trip by myself and will enjoy that to. Never did like group rides to many posers and clowns. Enjoy your freedom. SJ
When you’re going alone, you don’t need to plan anything. I started riding motorcycles when I retired in 2021. 40,000+ miles later with trips to Alaska, Mexico, and across the country twice, all of it solo. I have hundreds of places marked on google maps. Places to eat, places to stay, places to get fuel in remote areas, all on secondary roads. I always have a general destination with possible stops along the way, but I never know exactly where I’m going or which route I’ll take. I decided that stuff on the fly. If I get near an old friend or relatives place, I’ll text and see if they’re going to be around.
This is the way. This is how I want to do it. Thank you for writing.
Always consume your latest video instantly, cheers from the UK
Not many US biking videos I watch but these are just the best!
Glad I stumbled onto your channel. The tone and delivery is so very different, but as a 52 yr old myself who returned to regular riding, it really resonated. We all have our own personal reasons for riding to explore, mine being less about the solo experience and more about sharing my lifetime love of riding with my now adult sons. This led us to start a second fledgling channel - super new - like as of a couple days old now - so those aspects of your videos being "new to you" also resonates. Great stuff, sir. Keep it up.
Just went to Alaska from Colorado, solo. Turn out to be great and enjoyed only needing to worry about how I felt and what I wanted to do. 45 days and 8624 miles for my 65th birthday gift to myself.
That's the best birthday present ever.
Utterly agree, I even stopped riding my Goldwing and bought a Triumph 900 Bonneville. It just feels more free !😊
I am 69, bought my 1st bike 4 years ago(i did ride 48 years ago)to escape all the crap going on in this world. I love riding alone!! After riding for the four years, i have discovered I love being alone even when i am not riding. Riding alone, i have so many choices, FREEDOM!!
Just passed my full license test in Scotland aged 54 . Bought myself a Triumph Trident and just this weekend I took a ferry from the mainland to the Outer Hebrides . Spent the last 3 days travelling the length and breadth of the islands solo . I have had the time of my life riding through the most stunning scenery . Time to head home now , but man I feel good ! Already planning my next trip …….
Love the production quality of your videos. The footage always looks great, and appreciate when motovloggers add narration rather than speaking while riding. I think it makes for better audio quality, and you have a nice way of speaking as well. I'd love to see a video series of you taking a long trip across the US! Ride safe
So in 2006, at my brother's suggestion, he and I took an epic 5000+ mile adventure to Meat Cove NS (via The Cabot Trail) and back from Pennsylvania.
One each ; BWM GS motorcycle, tent and sleeping. This made for 28 of the most incredible and memorable days of my life. I'm sure my brother would agree.
The bikes and he are gone but the memory is still very much alive. Take the trip. Plan well. Enjoy each mile whatever the day brings and be grateful.
I really enjoy your videos and editing style! I have a lot of the same thoughts and inner feelings. I haven’t ridden all the way across country, but did ride from Reno to Southern Indiana alone on my CB550 in 1980. It was truly an epic trip for a young man. I hope you get to do your cross country trip, soon!
I live in High Desert too during winter time. I am fortunate that I can spend every summer in Europe. I took a week long trip to Boka Kotor in Monte Negro alone. Every 300 miles new people, new culture, different language, amazing food....I don't even take to many pictures any more. I want to be in the special moment alone a see everything with my own eyes. This way it just stay longer in my memory. I am happy for you
I'm 63 was home alone until I wanted to travel all the kids are grown and gone.
The ole lady left, that's when I decided to hit the road, there's nuthin like FREEDOM RIDE ON BROTHER maybe I'll see you on the road.
You forgot the most important reason that no one ever dares to mention. The ability to poop when you want to and not be sitting in a random gas station trying to hurry up while your buddies are waiting on you.
Take that trip, nothing really to plan. Figure out how far you are going to ride, find places to stay, throw some clothes in a bag and just go. Anything you forgot to pack that you'll really actually need will likely be at any of the bazillion Walmarts available along the way. Actually traveling alone by bike across the country is a whole new experience you won't ever forget.
Im 27 and i start riding alone when I lost my partner in life. For me riding alone is very therapeutic specially riding at night. Just only hearing the wind,my motorcycle and my thoughts. Ride safe to all lone riders out there💀🏍💨
2019. That was when I loaded my bike up and took a two week vacation on my motorcycle. It was perfect timing with what laid in store for the world in 2020. Blue Ridge Parkway, Myrtle Beach and Nashville were some of my trip. So glad I did it. Stayed on my own and with family and friends. I never comment on videos but this video hit home at just the right time in my life now at 58 I am really thinking hard about my future. Anxiety has been filling me. I think I need another trip. Thank you for making this video.
Man... this hits!
The last 4yrs have shifted me to being alone. This was singular reason I started doing solo-moto adventures.
2-3 weeks, thousands of miles. Just me. Whatever came my way was what I had to deal with.
Riding gets me into FLOW and it has saved my mental health.
I'm on the east coast and planning a trip your way. Happy to offer some insights or buy you a beer when you get here.
Pack the bike, make the plan and push the starter.
See you on the road!
Pyrat
I'm 61 years old and ride a 2006 Goldwing trike. I just had surgery last Saturday due to a herniated disc in my lower back and discovered your CZcams channel while recuperating. I really enjoy your videos. My riding for this year is pretty much over as I'll put my trike away for the winter in a couple of months (I live in South Dakota). Planning on a Lake Superior Circle Tour next July with another couple. Watching your videos is therapeutic for me. Ride safe.
Same age and similar back issues as you. Live in California and have a family farm in South Dakota. My dream is to ride out there instead of flying every year. I hope my trip happens someday soon and you get better so you can complete your big trip after you heal up. Things will get better, planning a trip is therapeutic for me, best of luck to you.
I have always ridden alone. Rarely have I group ridden or taken a pillion. Alone, you can go your own pace, stop when you want.
As I approached my 50th birthday I decided I needed a sabbatical from my lawyer job. With an understanding wife who agreed to let me go, I packed up the bike and headed southeast from Vermont. Out the old Route 66, down to San Diego, up the Pacific Coast Highway and all the way up to and around Alaska. Saw everything I wanted to see on my own terms and time. Met all kinds of wonderful people. About 14,000 miles over the course of six weeks. Funny thing, every night I'd hit a pillow in some cheap hotel thinking I"d be full of aches and pains the next morning, but it never happened. Could not wait to get on the road again. Best battery recharging experience EVER!!! And now I"m two years from hitting 70 and thinking it would be nice to do again. Point your bike east my friend. Look at a map and see what's on the road ahead that might interest you. See it. You will never regret it!
That was a great comment. Very inspiring. That journey has been gnawing at the back of my mind for about 10 years. But my job, house, wife and kids, and not wanting to leave my beloved dog behind, are all the things (or excuses) that I have which are preventing me from pulling the trigger to do that epic ride.
I love this. Thank you for writing.
@@TylerG7777 It can get away from you, if you wanna do it you will do it.
The dog will be waiting, kids will survive, house and wife will still be there. I have the house, but no family living here.
I just need a good house sitter. Or rent a room out and leave for 6 months.
@@bradsanders6954 Truths. Thank you.
For me, riding alone has been therapeutic, as I can go at my own pace and stop wherever I want. My last long solo ride lasted 2 weeks and almost 4k miles. My only destination was the Tail of the Dragon. From Southeast Florida I never touch a highway. Just an old road atlas that took me north. Best ride that took me through places I never knew existed, like discovering there is a Santa Claus, Georgia 😊. My only use of the media was my iPhone to find a local hotel to hang my hat for the night. My only suggestion is to make sure your bike is in order, and bring rain gear. And enjoy the solitude!!
I'm 26. not that old. but i feel old. been riding alone for a year. so far, i'm enjoying it to the fullest. going slow. going farther. enjoying the scenery. having a bite at a local place. meeting new people.
Only this morning I decided not to tell anyone I was going for a ride, I ended up at Donington race track relaxing with a coffee watching the bikes hammer around the track when my phone rings, it’s an old friend he’s bought a new bike and wants to meet up 🤦, oh well.
I used to ride with my wife on the back seat. Just her and I and it was the greatest.
I’m almost 70yrs of age I’ve been riding alone for more than 15 yrs now. As a single I really love to stay on my own for all the reasons you mentioned. Great 👍
I did a 3700 mile trip this past summer from Louisiana to South Dakota and back down the spine of the Rockies. Took a little over two weeks to do it, and man was it worth it! I cannot recommend it enough!
I'm 65, and I've been riding on the street since age 16. I've owned around 40 bikes, (no crotch rockets) and ridden over a million miles. And I have ALWAYS ridden alone. I ride to get away from everyday life, not to bring it with me. No stereo, no phone. Just me, the bike, and the road. And it will be that way for as long as I am able to ride.
“And if you have any interest in coming along, sorry, I’m doing this one by myself.” Lol. “The Dream.” Totally get it.
Mid afternoon Sunday, I did this . I live now in the west of Ireland, got on my bike just going to Westport got there mm I just go toward Clifton so the ride got a lot longer, the views are stunning around here . I'm 65 now been riding since I was 17 mostly on my own. I found that I just go trips the best.
That was an awesome video - thanks for making and sharing it! I don’t ride now, but did earlier in my life. Your descriptions of why we ride, especially riding solo, are spot on. More recently I bought a manual transmission car, a 2020 Challenger R/T Widebody, and I’ve already done two trips to the mountains of western NC, just to drive. Both trips were awesome. I included the Tail of the Dragon on my last trip, which was fun - especially hanging out in Deal’s Gap and meeting some bikers there - but there are dozens of roads in that area that match it on terms of twists and scenery. I’ll be going back soon, for all the reasons you mention! Thanks again for posting!
This is the best video for me ever. Some of my friend don't understand why I just want to ride alone at time.
I did 5,000 miles alone this summer. It was GLORIOUS,maybe even therapeutic. I normally take trips with my wife and son and I love sharing those trips, but every once in a while I need some alone time. You should definitely take your cross country motorcycle trip. I think it will be the Most Epic Adventure. Good luck.
During the summer months, I go for a solo ride after work on the Classic 350. It's a vital antidote for work stresses and helps me to be grounded in the here and now. Such an easy bike to ride, I usually check out familiar local places which are special to me. I'm only gone for a couple of hours at most and I check in with my wife by text a couple of times so she knows I'm safe but it's really helpful to me to have some alone time and the social disconnect is really healing to the busy mind.
For the past 25 years I've been doing 95% of my travels alone... ( mostly on my car but for the past 2 years on my motorcycle) there's definitely a freedom sense when you're on own... You choose your own way, not a single hassle at all... And if you asked me what I would choose if I only had one option... I would definitely go on my own, but... I would say it's also rewarding sharing those unique moments with the right person... Everything has it's own time and place. Enjoy life as it is! On you own or sharing it with someone else! 😉