Joy of solo riding

For many bikers, the journey matters more than the destination. – The Malaysian Insider pic, June 22, 2014.There are days you wake up to and you feel like just making that journey.

Aimless yet certainly, you prepare for a trip you know not where it will lead. As I set up a dialogue with my rider friends and acquaintances, the statement that has struck a chord with me the most is: the journey matters more than the destination.

Personally, riding solo is my most fancied means of travelling but there are others who care more for the company of a dozen than naught.

Two doctrines of thought dangle teasingly over my head as I search not for an answer, but an idea of understanding: do you prefer riding solo or in a group?

Whether one prefers to go riding by oneself or with a bunch of friends reflects much one one’s personality but is, unfortunately, also affected by factors of logistics, safety and convenience.

A lady acquaintance was once ever so ready to tell me she was a rose among thorns, the only lady biker among strapping lads.

Reflecting on the deftness of the matter because of the combined joy and security, she was also quick to point out that it wasn’t as easy for a lady biker to keep up with a group of men. “Keep up or get left behind. It’s pretty hard.”

Her words still ring true to this moment.

Another friend shared that he revels in the company of a group of bikers but also said he loved riding by himself from time to time.

In fact, he was quick to point out that riding essentially is a solo experience.

But for the issue of safety, I’m guessing most riders would still prefer their privacy.

As my friend nicely puts it: “Despite riding in a pack, riding a motorcycle is still primarily a solitary experience, being under a helmet and all.”

If one dares to brave the elements and the commotion of having one’s fellow humans inflict bodily harm and injury onto oneself, then I say go for it: ride solo and enjoy the experience.

I could almost juxtapose the idea of riding solo to the medieval times when a lady had to disguise herself as a knight while desperately riding her horse back to her family.

It really is gratifying and like any whim in life: commit the act if you can handle the consequences.

An intrepid friend of mine bravely made it, while riding solo, from Malaysia to Laos, covering 3,000km before crashing in Luangnamtha, Laos while en route to Boten.

Luckily for him, he met a couple of bikers who kindly helped him to hospital. Quite the adventure, his bike even chanced a ride on a boat, but not before nine Laotians kindly lifted it onto the boat.

Ultimately, I prefer riding solo. The issue of security, however, is arguable.

I would have to say that like anything else, safety while riding solo is a choice. But then again, on the road, one could remain as inconspicuous as a wallflower but when danger strikes, it will and I guess one consolation would be that danger can either be dealt with head on or cause one to go flailing in the currents of mayhem. – June 22, 2014.

* Last week’s column can be found here.