I ride alone, too. Pretty much all we have around here are rural back country roads. There is nothing like riding next to fields of corn, open fields, or Russian Olives. I have taken a women's self defense class but I don't know how much I would remember if push came to shove. I carry pepper spray with me on my handlebars. I always let someone know where I am going and approximately when I will be back. I always carry my cell phone. Other than that, it's in the hands of the good Lord to get me home safely!