Riding Solo - San Francisco->Central Illinois

[supaonabike]

This summer I'm thinking about doing my first long touring ride from SF to Champaign, IL. As of now, I'm having trouble talking some friends into the ride so I am likely planning on doing it solo. I wanted to get the opinion of others who have done it solo what are some of the highlights and pitfalls? Also, if you're interested in the same ride in late July, I'd love to hear from you!

Thanks
Paul

[Successor to the Professor]

The big benefit of riding solo is that you can run entirely on your own schedule.  If you want to hang out in a town for a few extra days, or sidetrack your route a bit, no problem.  On a ride of this length, you'll surely make friends along the way, and you may even be able link up with some of your existing friends along the route.

Depending on the type of person you are, being alone for a few months may or may not be a pitfall.  It can, however, be nice to have a partner along to help navigate tricky scenarios that will certainly come about along the trip (finding a place to spend the night, fixing mechanical failures, you miscalculated the funds needed, etc). 

If you do travel with a companion, be sure to go into the ride with the understanding that it won't be all fun and games for the entire stretch.  Over that span of time, drama is sure to ensue, so be prepared to work it out.