Fast Take: After many years of solo touring, I’m shifting to shared roads—Oklahoma Freewheel in 2026 and RAGBRAI in 2027. Identical love of the open highway, new form of pleasure: neighborhood, tales, and pie.
Although I’ve determined to hold up my solo touring footwear, I’m nowhere near finished chasing the open highway. The distinction now’s the form of journey I would like—one shared with 1000’s of riders shifting towards one thing unforgettable.
From Solo Excursions to Shared Roads
For years I selected the rhythm of planning my very own route, being alone with the highway, and letting every day unfold. Now I’m craving the laughter, the mid-ride conversations, and the competition power that massive occasions deliver. In 2026 I’m driving Oklahoma Freewheel, and in 2027 I’m lastly checking RAGBRAI off the listing.
Final time I rode a week-long occasion like these was BRAG — the Bicycle Trip Throughout Georgia — again in 2001. That was 25 years in the past this coming summer season. The reminiscences nonetheless glow. Time to make new ones.
What Is RAGBRAI?
RAGBRAI (Register’s Annual Nice Bicycle Trip Throughout Iowa) is a seven-day, non-competitive trip that crosses the state west to east. The route adjustments annually and wraps on the Mississippi River. It’s not a race; it’s a rolling celebration—small cities, music, showers, campsites, and extra pie stands than I most likely ought to be round.
Why Now?
As I strategy 70, I believe much less about miles alone and extra about tales, individuals, and shared miles that flip into one thing significant. These rides examine all of the containers. They’re about displaying up, soaking within the day, and letting the highway sew everybody collectively.
Gearing Up (Maintain It Easy)
I’m holding the equipment lean however sensible for lengthy, sizzling days and back-to-back mileage. Two objects I gained’t skip:
- Light-weight tent — small footprint, quick setup, and recovery-friendly sleep. I desire a 2 particular person tent for the additional area however there are smaller 1 particular person tents obtainable.
- Chamois cream — consolation is pace on day 5. I take advantage of this one.
Gear Up for Freewheel & RAGBRAI
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The Street Forward
The solo touring chapter could also be closing, however the story isn’t over. The bucket listing simply shifted. In 2027 I’ll be rolling throughout Iowa with a thousand new associates. In case you’re on the market too, save me a slice of pie.
Have you ever ridden Freewheel, RAGBRAI, or BRAG? What shocked you most? Drop a remark—I’m taking notes.
