Riding alone can be great. I look at it as a time to clear my thoughts; it's almost meditative. But with cars, so not too meditative.

If you are worried about the tire changing, have an evening of tire changing practice. While you are watching TV or a movie (or not), sit down with your wheel and tools and just plain practice taking the tire off, taking the tube out, putting it back in, and putting the tire back on the rim a few times. It shouldn't take long to get familiar with how it works so that you can do it on the road easily. Also be familiar with getting your back tire off of your bike and putting it back on.

When I'm alone, I always have a phone with me and always let someone know where I'm going and when I expect to be back. The bf was gone last weekend and I did leave a note on the table with my route *just*in*case*.

Finally, Lizzybee, word on the SoCal riding and the beach and the mountains. Wait until you get into the hills!