I can’t tell you how many times I have heard, “aren’t you afraid to ride alone?” Well, the answer to that query is complicated.

Though I don’t harbor any fears about riding alone, I do try to minimize the risks with proper gear, a charged cell phone and a SPOT GPS tracking device. I keep my machine in top condition and I check tire wear and air pressure every time I leave my garage. I keep my tank topped at back roads towns, when stations are available. I double check that my bags are cinched down and any additional items are properly attached to the bike. I keep current maps of the areas I am traveling and my GPS properly loaded. (though I have to say, that’s a Gary bene) I always carry water and a snack or two and I always have my guardian bells! Many may scoff at this, but I figure the more guardian stuff the better!

I travel completely intrigued by the open road, the adventure, and seeing new places. I find the time I spend while riding solo gives me pause to reflect. I have come to depend on myself and the resources I have learned with this challenging sport. I have learned to pick up a fallen machine when no one is around to assist me, to troubleshoot mechanical conditions, like when you have somehow hit the kill switch and the bike won’t fire up. ; )

Most importantly, I have come to appreciate who I am, the experiences that have occurred making me the person that I have become, also thanks to the support of those that love me, unconditionally. Riding Solo is a soul cleanser! I stop when I want, traveling at the speed I desire. I can take a million photographs and there is no one rolling their eyes as I stop, yet again. I can ride without a schedule, one amazing and important factor, which allows me to stay where I desire and visit anything along the way.

Granted, there are those moments that I wish I could share what ever wonderful thing I have encountered with someone else. Or I just would like to eat lunch with family or friends. But for the most part the gratification I receive from the solo ride greatly outweighs the few moments that I am lonely.

For me, being female doesn’t alter the equation, or the whole experience. When on my motorcycle, I am simply another rider on the road, out seeking solace and quiet in a world playing too loud and too hard. I have discovered that until my helmet comes off, the expectations of those I share the road with are level and equal. And it isn’t until my helmet is removed that I get asked the ever-daunting question, “aren’t you afraid to ride alone?”

I generally smile and reply… “sometimes”.

Alberta, Canada