I told a story on this forum recently about a weeklong bike tour that got ruined because I gave in to another cyclist who wanted to join me toward the end. This was someone I like very much in "real life," but knew I wouldn't be compatible with on a bike tour. As hard as I tried to make it work, it ended up really being a drag and I will never do that again.

In general, I prefer to tour alone. This is because the two people I usually enjoy riding with - my wife and my best friend - do not do long rides. Other than them, I don't know anyone who's a sure shot that I'll have fun with. And given that I only have time for one or two short tours each year, I ain't taking ANY CHANCES!!!!!