Solo Travel or Small Group Rides: What's Better?

[@billcurnew6020]

I think you nailed my sentiments on this subject, especially in two areas; the loneliness, or perhaps, the wish to share some moments and time, and the suggestion to try a long solo trip. Also important was your mention of compromise. Each aditional person on a trip adds yet another level of compromise. Sometimes that's no problem, but sometimes it can ruin the trip. I much, much prefer solo travel....especially over long, multi day/week trips, but often go back to that thought of wishing someone else could have shared that experience, or been company over dinner. The key might be in finding the right travel partner, and that's not always easy. I have regretted some trips with others, but I have never regretted my solo trips....even when they didn't go as well as hoped. I got something from all of them! Well said piece!

[@FTAAdventures]

Well said comment my friend! I agree completely

[@bandknanacortes1858]

All good thoughts. I took my “big” solo trip at 66 years old two years ago and rode my 2005 650 V-Storm to Alaska to visit grandchildren. Came home over the Top of The World Highway. Mix of camping and hostels and motels. Just be realistic, stay within your skill level, and go for it.

[@FTAAdventures]

Well said!

[@zenmotorcycleman]

Tim, I agree with everything you said. I also prefer to travel solo, or with 1 or 2 others for all the reasons you stated. When traveling solo I found one way of overcoming not being able to share the riding experience with someone is to share it on social media. Tons of people thank me for sharing photos and my experience online because they typically are not able to travel like I do. It also lets them live vicariously through me because traveling the country on a motorcycle is a dream few people are able to realize.

[@FTAAdventures]

Well said! I agree

[@MrPepsilon]

Agree totally. Letting people who for various reasons can't do a long trip like that join via social media and/or photos make yourself feel less lonely. Over the years so many retired men (I am one now as well) have approached me on my rides, talking dreamly of the bike still in their garage that they have not ridden for many years but can not sell because of great memories. Or the trip that never happened. Whether solo or with others, get out there for those journeys.

[@lordvader2060]

As someone who struggles with anxiety I fear the thoughts in my head more than any external danger. Self doubt, loneliness, and just a desire to be back home where it is familiar and comfy creep in when I get tired. I’ve found using mindfulness techniques when I get anxious help. I try not to let my mind project problems that may arise hours or days in advance but rather just be in the moment. When I experience anxiety about what the next day may bring I try to stop thinking and rather feel the joy of that moment. The joy of being on a bike and riding. I focus on the wind and vibrations of the bike. In the back of my mind I allow myself the very real possibility of turning back later but at this very moment I’m just going to continue to feel the joy of motorcycling. I got through a long multi day trip that way and it was a huge confidence boost. Thanks, Tim.

[@FTAAdventures]

Well said, and great strategy. I try to do the same

[@1Llamrei]

Agree with you. I have found a good way for me is that my best friend lives half way across the country. So we meet in the middle so we both get solo rides of a couple of days then ride together for a few days, then split back up and a few more solo days. I still struggle camping in bear country as I get up very early and sitting in the dark in bear country scares me to death. Thanks again for your time.

[@FTAAdventures]

Sounds like a great arrangement, I have a similar friend and we do a similar trip of solo and with a friend.

[@GS_Johnny_ADV]

Great vid! After a couple of my buddies cancelled on me last August I decided to just go it alone much to the chagrin of my wife. I binged on these types of vids, bought your book, and moto-camped all the way from S Florida to Glacier and back 7k miles. Even at age 50 it was an amazing time of personal growth and reinforcement of my abilities as I conquered not only the easy roads but a few legs of the CO and ID BDR’s all by myself. Yes it got lonely at times and even scary when hundreds of miles from the safety of the pavement but man it was so exillerating and I can’t wait to do it again this year exploring further south. Thanks for the resources and pep talks! Safe travels…

[@FTAAdventures]

Sounds awesome, glad your trip went well!

[@nomad_lad]

I do mostly solo trips, not by choice but because I don't really have any friends that ride. My only issue is like you mentioned, not being able to share moments and views with other people... I've been on a few trips where I've been on amazing roads or trails with breathtaking views and suddenly found myself just going through the motions, not absorbing any of my surroundings and just making my way from place to place. It has actually made me cut trips short unfortunately. I'm hoping to start recording my trips more in the hope that this creates a bit of a companion for my solo trips 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@FTAAdventures]

Sorry to hear that, I’ve had similar experiences with feeling kinda empty and not into something amazing just because someone else isn’t there to share it.

[@nomad_lad]

@FTAAdventures I'm sure there's a way around it, with a shift in mindset, possibly a "gratitude" thing. Living in the moment more... I'm terrible with that stuff! If I find the secret, I'll let you know 😂👍

[@soilsmanadv6673]

Almost all of my trips are solo. The other ones I love are large groups of dual sport riders with a focus. Like men's mental health or veteran's support from the proceeds of the event. But I do not attend organized rides with groups of more than four or five bikes.

[@Bobrob51]

I look forward to the solitude when I travel. It's part of the experience for me.

[@FTAAdventures]

I agree

[@mikerodgers9666]

I have done three cross country trips. One alone and two with a friend. The first was alone and I really enjoyed it. It was enlightening. I had a plan for the ride but by being alone I didn’t always stick to it. Those were the days when my wife would ask where I went I would say that I was wandering. A ride to Neah Bay in Washington was one of those days as was the Indianapolis speedway to name a couple. It is true that it did get lonely at times but you deal with it and you can always call home. I have a friend that rode with me on the other two long trips and we are very compatible when it comes to speed and distance travelled every day. Last summer we did US Route 50 and were away for 28 days without a single disagreement. Occasionally I will travel with larger groups and that’s ok as well. So as long as I’m riding I’m happy. I really enjoy your pods. Keep them coming.

[@FTAAdventures]

Sounds awesome! And thank you!

[@mikewest5796]

I love riding by myself but still haven’t worked up the courage to camp off the beaten path. All my moto-camping up to this point has been in campgrounds (KOA’s and state parks).

[@flyfisher5757]

I do a lot of Solo camping trips where I set up for a few days and fly fish. I use these trips as therapy from the daily stresses of life. Honestly it takes a few days to be comfortable alone, but after a week it’s hard to turn towards home again. I also ride with old friends that I’ve known for 50 plus years. Though these trips are more structured it’s the alone time while we ride that gets me through to the next stop. Great video. Thank you.

[@eddcurry501]

Good video. I prefer traveling with three others on annual 3-4 thousand mile planned trips. Been doing it for years with the same friends.

[@FTAAdventures]

Good stuff!

[@AZGeek520]

Spot-on points, Tim. Like you, I'm not a big group rider. My preferred group size is 3 to 4: less hassle with time for fuel stops, hotel check-ins, restaurant seating, etc. I usually record video on my rides, and often take a drone with me. I do find that I stop more often to capture some drone footage when I am alone, vs. riding with a group where some can become bored while watching me fly a drone. I do enjoy riding alone primarily because of the increased freedom, but I am also good with riding with a very small group of buddies where we all know each other's quirks.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you! Well said

[@KevinKeller-aka-Chef]

The past years my college friends and I have done some long trips together. Each usually involves some solo time before we meet up, so it’s sort of the best of both worlds. Last year I had about 12 of the total 21 days solo to meet up with the friends and then ride my bike home afterward.

[@FTAAdventures]

That is awesome!

[@jyoung488]

My desire to ride and motorcycle travel solo keeps increasing. Like you said, the freedom and self introspection is so nice and hard to give up. With technology and gear today, the safety margin is much increased from yesteryear.

[@FTAAdventures]

Well said!

[@AT2021Rocker]

Spot on Tim! I have found 4-6 riders is optimal as long as everyone’s attitude, riding style and expectations are similar. The memories created in a tight group are fantastic. I’m too much of a chicken to go by myself although I’d love to try it someday.

[@FTAAdventures]

Sounds great! I’ve had great trips with groups like that.

[@RetroXPodcast]

Your points on solo travel pros are spot on. I don't get pride in fixing problems that arise on the road (this could be because of my poor feelings on worthiness) like you said, though I do give myself a bit of that self confidence in that I can tackle adversity when it arises, especially on the road by myself. Good content here.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you my friend!

[@derekedlund1854]

Great topic. Thanks.

[@FTAAdventures]

Glad you liked it!

[@lordvader2060]

awesome video. I just wish we could clone Tim so we could each have him with us. You are loved, Tim. I owe this whole crazy ADV journey since 2020 in large part to you. (My wife wants the money back 😂)

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you very much my friend! Glad you think so!

[@soloadvtravel]

You nailed it Tim, thanks for the video! I ride alone because I want my peace, my time, stop for photos and not deal with I’m tired, I’m hungry, I don’t want to go there etc…. NO TIME TO THINK OR TAKE EVERYTHING IN! There is no way I go riding with anyone…I defeats the purpose as I ride also to get away… From people (friends or otherwise) cheers!

[@FTAAdventures]

Thanks, well said!

[@davechavis4275]

Just rode up to watson lake BC, alone. I would rather share the experience with a friend or two! Safety in numbers, and split the gear up for less weight. Same bikes would be a bonus.

[@blader947]

I've watched several of your videos and have found much value on your experience and advice, so I subscribed and liked. I plan to ride some of those Big Bend areas this year on my Tenere1200 to enjoy the magnificence on a adv bike instead of my overland 4x4. Thank you for showing us how it's done. Remember when you get lost is when you find yourself., Godspeed my friend.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you! Enjoy Big Bend it’s amazing!

[@SwabbyG]

As you stated Tim both styles of bike travel offer different rewards/benefits. I've done both group and solo rides. Personally I love the freedom of riding solo or with one other person who has same travel agenda as I do versus small group rides. However small group rides can be a load of fun if said group is touring a region for a few days at a time. Especially in areas like the Black Hills of South Dakota where there's a lot of riding choices and scenic views for every taste and desire. As always great video and food for riding thought. 🏍

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you! Black Hills are awesome!

[@MrPepsilon]

Solo is the way for me. Did three months last year in the western states. Often remote. Camped and cooked my meals every day. Camping alone was never an issue really. When in state parks and blm sites you can often interact with other campers, joining for bbq, meals, and having nice chats. Other nights you camp in peaceful solitude, watching the stars. It is more about riding with great caution, especially when hitting remote dirt roads. A big heavy bike, with all the gear is no fun in sand either. When in doubt better turn around than risk it.

[@FTAAdventures]

Well said!

[@adventuresnorthwest]

Tim, I like to travel solo or with one other rider. Riding solo is all about making safe choices, especially in the back county. I have found myself 30 to 40 miles on a back road, having seen one or two other riders. Riding conservatively and maybe not taking the more challenging route or road is my choice when solo. Camping solo, I never sleep as well as if having a riding buddy along. Love the solitude and the flexibility that riding solo gives you. Good luck with your new channel.

[@FTAAdventures]

Well said! I agree on all points you made

[@kevinsterner9490]

Good video Tim. I mostly ride alone. I have a few trusted people I ride with sometimes. I have been on a few big group rides and they are ok but usually some drama is involved. The two points I can relate to are not being able to share cool experiences when alone and I don’t camp alone except in a campground. Never got the nerve up to go camp in the middle of nowhere. I will ride thru it but don’t want to camp in it.

[@FTAAdventures]

Well said!

[@Jon_Bass4001]

3:30 The pros here reflect why I ride mostly solo. I do enjoy the freedom in making adjustments along the way. I ride with smaller groups on rare occasions and those are not long rides, usually under 200 miles round trip.

[@FTAAdventures]

I agree!

[@peterblacklin9174]

Really good video, great scenery. I have done all,of my big tips solo. I think I would try a max of two others. The fact that we are all riding is a great starting point philosophically. The shared experiences, discussion and b.s. at the end of the day can improve your riding technique, one is always learning. I have done afternoon rides with another rider. I think having similar bikes does help the flow. Slowing down for the corners for your fellow rider on a 10degree floorboard scraping bagger takes the edge off, but it does make up for it with stories from a different perspective over a meal! We'll see what this year brings.

[@FTAAdventures]

Sounds great!

[@LongRider47]

For many years I participated and coordinated large rides. These days I’m addicted to solo riding. My ride, my time and I can do anything I want, when ever I want.

[@FTAAdventures]

Well said, I agree!

[@eddcurry501]

Each year, I take a 10-14 trip with 2-3 others. A foursome is perfect for sharing the experience, gear and costs. I’ve been taking the trips for a dozen years. Occasionally I add shorter 2-3 day trips a year with one other. I don’t really like traveling alone.

[@FTAAdventures]

Sounds great!

[@Passinthru]

Great insights! Enjoyed the travels clips. Thanks Tim!

[@FTAAdventures]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@solomoto4706]

My name says it all! 🍻

[@gilbertbates8522]

I end up as a solo traveler mostly because of getting everybody together at the same time, specially as I don't plan too much, I just go! The people I choose to ride with depends mostly their riding ability. I've been riding all of my life and naturally ride fast, it's what I do, and it's the complaint from slower less experienced riders that the fast riders are going too fast...it always happens. And as much as I would prefer not to point this out, is that I avoid group traveling if there are women involved, that slows everything down to a snails pace, specially in the mornings were they take hours to get themselves prepped for the day!

[@perimund]

Done many yrars of solo long and short trips, great fun since i like riding slot sobi was able to do double distances per day alone. Last 5 years i prefere taking small group's 4-6 people on prepered known tour or me and one friend on rides without planning. Main thing/reason its sharing experience and showing great beautiful places. Making things more affordable is a bonus. Tnx for your great videos. Best regards from Europe.

[@FTAAdventures]

Sounds great!

[@InTheDirtAgain]

I took a single-day trip through Glacier Nat'l Park with my son and a co-worker. Was the best ride we ever had with a single exception........my co-worker had to stop to pee about every hour. I swear he's borderline diabetic! If we had to do that with others in a larger group, I wouldn't really disliked having to do that. Plus, larger groups are harder to seat for meals when riding through smaller towns.

[@49Roadmaster]

As usual, another great video Tim. Here is my opinions on long trips: Big groups, no way! There is always one person who is perpetually late, never gases up with the rest, has an ill maintained motorcycle, hitting on the waitress who is a 1/3 their age, a loud mouth, picking fights with others (including trying to start a bar fight with the locals), ill prepared for the trip, braggart, always trying to one up everyone, TRYING to be the alpha male when there is nothing to control, driving erratically, wants to do something other than what the group has already agreed upon doing, is hungover and wants everyone else to cater to them, cheap to the point of mooching off others, constantly loosing their keys, phone, wallet, gear, etc. General life suckers. I have always travelled with all of my own gear/tools with me as I am always willing to bail on a group ride if things go sideways, but first I will tell someone in the group my intentions so not to have anyone look for me later. I am not there to fix others, just there for my own enjoyment. Solo and Small groups of 1-2 people is great as you have stated. I hope this makes sense, and doesn't come off as a grumpy old cynical dude. Life is short and precious and I don't need some people in my life.

[@FTAAdventures]

Makes perfect sense to me! Thanks!

[@ervinslens]

Great topic and so nicely explained bud! You have amazing content!

[@FTAAdventures]

I appreciate that!

[@Avensur]

Definitely a SOLO trip. Never done that before and I want to have the experience. I like adventure and use all of those skills you learned alone your life. Keys for me are decision making based on safety riding within my zone. Sometimes you need to find and know yourself and make adjustments accordingly. Ride safe but ride 👍

[@FTAAdventures]

Totally agree!

[@Dave-sw2dm]

Traveling alone means go when you want. Stop when you want. Much easier to talk to people when in new towns. Finding a compatible rider does make riding fun also. Ive done both and the other(s) don't have the stamina I have so longer than a week definitely causes tension.

[@FTAAdventures]

Well said

[@chonkyb3134]

I like small groups, but solo is a lot of fun !

[@FTAAdventures]

I agree!

[@krob-sn7ek]

Good stuff Tim, you are on the money with this info. I like alone really. The freedom is intoxicating. I understand that I may need help from time to time, but that is life... People do interact with you more when by yourself, so you are not lonely, just alone most of the day. Sometimes that is real good. It helps to enjoy life and gives you time to try figure this life out.

[@FTAAdventures]

Well said!

[@joegregory109]

I thought that looked familiar, I just rode there…..solo…..this past September.

[@WRW9751]

Shy away from groups. Everyone is normal until you know them! One or two is fine. Three makes a good number. If someone has any issues someone can run and the other gets to stay.

[@FTAAdventures]

Well said

[@kelvinknaff9903]

I’ve enjoyed trip both ways if I must pick one the solo trips..

[@FTAAdventures]

Good choice!

[@metalpolishshop]

I prefer small group of maybe 3 or alone. Having the second person there to remove the bike off you or help lift it from a dirt nap is nice. Large groups are like herding cats, to many thoughts, no real decisions made (not hurting feelings) and general slowing of the journey with waiting for slower individuals and stopping to ask the group questions and getting a consensus

[@FTAAdventures]

Well said, I agree

[@joegregory109]

I much prefer traveling solo, it’s nice to have others with you for safety purposes but ultimately I just prefer to be on the road by myself

[@FTAAdventures]

I agree

[@kuhndj67]

I don't ride with big groups ever... and generally don't ride with people I don't know already, though I'm OK with a small group (4 or less) for short durations. USUALLY when I ride with others it's always folks I know and usually less than 6 riders for short, 1-3 day rides. For longer rides up to a week or so it's almost always 3 or less. Then for my tours (3 weeks to 2 months) I'm almost always riding solo because my pace rarely lines up with other riders. I'm OK riding slower for shorter trips but even with friends it gets frustrating on longer rides... and in addition to pace there's duration - I ride dawn to dusk and I've found most folks don't want to ride that long for even a day or two much less a month. Long solo rides can get lonely so I periodically take a day to stay at a location (Moab was my last stay) and just hang out... chat with other riders passing through. I can also sometimes find that by staying at official campgrounds too (instead of rough camping) so I'll do that regularly.

[@FTAAdventures]

Well said

[@sharonhirsch1173]

Good video and comparison

[@FTAAdventures]

Glad you liked it!

[@single_cam9199]

Depends! If it’s the shit show group ride 10fold!

[@rogue5643]

Tim good to see you again. Saw that you and I have something in common and not just motorcycle travel. We both operate in our right mind ( lefties). Also close by, I'm in Alamogordo NM.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you. That is true!

[@mototrips1]

Solo or two perfect

[@FTAAdventures]

I agree

[@bradboustead1682]

I vacation solo because I prefer the selfish aspect of doing what I want and at my pace. If, however, I was going to camp in bear company, I think I would travel with someone who is kinda out of shape and not a very fast runner.😅

[@FTAAdventures]

lol great strategy!

[@markchristianson8178]

FTA you said that perfect i want to take a trip to Alaska by myself from Vancouver Island to somewhere in alaska i . But my wife still wants me to take someone with me . I worked all over northern canada in the bush line cutting and staking claims so . But i would like to stop when i want and hike or whatever take pics i don't want to be in a rush . And i want to camp not hotel it no thanks . U.S and Canada have so much to offer . Thanks for sharing i love ur vids

[@FTAAdventures]

Sounds great! Thank you!

[@blader947]

Mark interested to know more about the seafood there. Seafood is what I do here too.

[@TriumphLover]

Went to Newfoundland back in 2012. Had 6 of us. We stayed at B&B's I'd do cheap lil at hostels for a couple of days. I'll pay for your gas! 😊 😉

[@FTAAdventures]

Sounds awesome!

[@TriumphLover]

@@FTAAdventures it's been cold here in Tucson/Catalina.. Snow on Mt Lemmon 😁

[@newenglandscrambler2262]

Hey Tim, a quick totally unrelated question- where did you take that last video clip with the canyon and flat-topped rocks when the sponsors names are scrolling? What a cool looking spot!

[@FTAAdventures]

Black Canyon of the Gunnison in Colorado, really cool place.

[@newenglandscrambler2262]

@@FTAAdventures thank you! That's on my western states must-do list.

[@mawladdawilah]

Solo 💪🏽👌🏽

[@michaelkeselman]

Definitely solo.

[@purificator1004]

Solo all the way....never ever a group for me....motorcycle is my meditation...an annoying group or member of a group can ruin it... As much you can build good memories in a group...you can suffer the bad ones too...

[@FTAAdventures]

Well said!

[@chema1546]

Ok 👏🎉👍

[@clvrswine]

There is very, very little "Bear Country" that you should think about for one second. America has Black Bears (harmless, and not a concern) and Brown Bears (a.k.a. Grizzly Bears). There are very few places where Brown Bears are of concern. Those places surround the Greater Yellowstone National Park Area. Beyond that, Black Bears have nothing to do with riding a motorcycle, camping or hiking. Black Bears are like cats. They will scurry away, up a tree and make a serious effort to avoid you. Keep a clean camp, and you'll be fine. Black Bears are no threat and should never be in your mind. Raccoons, mice and foxes are way more involved with camping. Dogs and other humans are way more of a threat than Black Bears. Stop camping (dispersed) in fear.

[@roberttodd3348]

Well done brother..with the world as it is..thank you for sharing that which is often overlooked

[@FTAAdventures]

Much appreciated

[@andrewmorgan81]

I’m about to go on my first group ride to Thailand from Malaysia and I really appreciate your insights on the things to be aware of. Keep up the good work!

[@FTAAdventures]

Have fun!

[@henryhawk978]

Enjoyed the video, Tim. I'm a loner, the thought of going on a road trip with one or more doesn't cross my mind. But, to each his own. Keep up the good work and RIDE SAFE OUT THERE!

[@FTAAdventures]

Well said!

[@gullyfoyle-uf6fr]

"Happiness is best when shared." - Alexander Supertramp

[@FTAAdventures]

Good one!

[@wykedmoose7642]

Nailed it!!! Ride your ride. Live Your life. Find your friends. Cool, live your life

[@FTAAdventures]

Well said!

[@BJJNINJA215]

Patrick Forster’s short story “1471” really captures the magic of a solo motorcycle trip 👍 Great video Tim❤

[@FTAAdventures]

I’ll have to check that out. Thanks!