I ride alone otherwise I wouldn't be able to ride much. I ride in rough isolated places (Moab, South East mountains) and often on week days where there's no one else on the trails. I carry the appropriate gear in case I get hurt. Plus eventually my wife will miss me (I hope) and send help.

I have the same mentality mentioned above about going and not liking to stop. With my wife I keep in touch with cell phones if possible. I would prefer to ride with somebody, but it's not practical. If i am riding with someone less skilled or fit, I wait for them periodically, preferring to run at my speed. If someone is more fit, I tell them to go at their speed and I'll catch them when they take a snack break.

Al