Here is my take, and no offense to the women who might read this, but I think the interest in solo riding is influenced by our gender. Guys, on average, especially as they get older, have less close friends, compared to women. and for the most part, I think we're okay with that. It bugs my wife when I won't do couple things with some of the people in our neighborhood; women that she's good friends with who are married to guys I have nothing in common with. I'd much rather be out on the B, or mowing the yard, or playing with the dogs, or floating in the pool, compared to forced silly conversations. Rides are pretty much the same, my wife doesn't ride, and there are more people that I don't want to ride with than those I do. I solo'd out to the Smokies last year, and had a great time, all by myself.