Mumbai to Hyderabad on a Super Meteor 650: My first solo ride

For anyone contemplating a solo motorcycle trip, my advice is simple: prepare well, trust your instincts, and take the plunge.

BHPian neeravp recently shared this with other enthusiasts:

For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to go on a long motorcycle ride. The thrill of the open road, the hum of the engine, and the opportunity to connect with myself in solitude had been calling me for years. Until now, the longest ride I’d done was 200 kilometers in a day. This time, I decided to push my limits and embark on a solo ride from Mumbai to Hyderabad — a journey spanning over 750 kilometers each way.

Why Hyderabad?

Hyderabad is a city I’ve visited many times for work, but this trip was different. Instead of flying, I decided to ride there. To make the journey manageable, I planned a stopover in Solapur on my way to Hyderabad and in Pune on my way back. It was my first long solo ride, and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t anxious. But that anxiety only made me prepare better.

Preparing for the Ride

I spent days preparing for the contingencies of a solo ride. I created a detailed checklist of items to pack, which included everything from essential tools to first-aid supplies. My younger brother lent me his trusty Gods Triton X2 saddle bags, which proved to be a lifesaver for organising my gear. I also ensured my Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 was in perfect condition and ready for the adventure ahead. I visited the Royal Enfield service centre a day before the ride and got the motorcycle thoroughly checked. The technicians inspected the engine oil, brake fluid, chain, and all other essentials to ensure everything was in top-notch condition for the long journey.

All the gear ready for the ride next day

Saddle bags fastened and the bike ready to roll!

The Ride Begins

I set off at 6 AM on a crisp Saturday morning. Barely 15 minutes into the ride, I noticed the dreaded engine malfunction light flashing on my dashboard. My heart sank. The fear of having to cancel my trip, or worse, being stranded in some remote area with a broken-down bike, was overwhelming. I immediately called a friend Akhtar bhai (786 Rider) who runs a motorcycle workshop. Coincidentally, he was also on a ride to Goa that day. He reassured me and advised me to ride carefully to Pune and visit the nearest Royal Enfield service centre once it opened at 9 AM.

Jamil at Hridaan Motors inspecting my bike

Those three hours of riding to Pune were filled with anxiety, but I made it to the service centre intact. The staff there were incredibly helpful and, understanding my urgency, promptly checked my bike. Thankfully, it was a minor issue, and they didn’t even charge me for the service! With my confidence restored, I hit the road again, ready to take on the adventure.

The Journey to Solapur

Navigating through Pune’s infamous traffic was a challenge, but once I crossed the city, the roads opened up. The highway was smooth, straight, and had little traffic. With music playing through my Bluetooth earphones and Android Auto guiding me on the dash, I finally began to enjoy the ride. I stopped at a roadside dhaba for a hearty lunch and later at a small eatery for some local snacks. The conversations with the roadside vendors about their lives and aspirations added a personal touch to the journey.

Can't ride through Pune and not have a vada pav!

I reached Solapur around 4 PM, checked into a hotel, and freshened up. In the evening, I explored the city, visiting the famous Shri Siddheshwar Devasthan and a local sweet shop to pick up some treats for my colleagues. Riding through Solapur’s streets was a different experience altogether, with its unique charm and welcoming people.

Shri Siddheshwar Devasthan

The Ride to Hyderabad

The next day, I started my ride at 8 AM after a hearty breakfast. The highway from Solapur to Hyderabad was even better — straight, smooth, and surrounded by beautiful countryside. The weather was pleasant, making the ride an absolute joy. I reached Hyderabad by 2 PM, checked into my hotel, and spent the evening exploring the city’s local attractions.

During the weekdays, my work kept me busy, but I made it a point to step out in the evenings to experience Hyderabad’s vibrant food culture. I was amazed to see the love this city has for chai. At 11:30 PM, tea cafes were buzzing with energy, filled with people chatting over bun-maska and chai. It was refreshing to see how Hyderabad’s tea culture still thrives, even as coffee culture takes over many other cities.

I drool every time I look at this picture

The Return Journey

On Saturday morning, I began my ride back, stopping at Pune for the night. The straight highways once again provided a sense of freedom and exhilaration.

Straight, unending roads!

By Sunday morning, I was on the final leg of my journey, riding through Lonavala at sunrise. It was a nice experience to see so many motorcycle enthusiasts along the way, waving and sharing an unspoken camaraderie. I reached home in Mumbai by 11 AM, greeted by my family and a sense of accomplishment.

Reflections on the Ride

This trip was more than just a journey from Mumbai to Hyderabad; it was an experience that words can barely capture. Riding solo on long, open highways helped me connect with myself, my motorcycle, and the road. The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 was an absolute joy to ride. Its comfort and performance ensured that I never felt tired, even after hours of riding each day.

Clicked this at a misal dhaba

Stopping at roadside vendors to grab fruits or snacks, I had heartwarming conversations with locals. Their curiosity about my journey and aspirations in life added depth to the experience. Riding through villages, I often felt like a spectacle — dressed in full riding gear, with cameras and accessories on my bike. People would stare, wave, or give me a thumbs up, and some even asked if I had a YouTube channel! These small moments of connection made the trip even more special.

Memories to Cherish

The joy of riding alone, the beauty of open highways, the kindness of strangers, and the thrill of adventure are memories I will cherish forever. This trip not only strengthened my bond with my motorcycle but also gave me a fresh perspective on life. It reminded me of the importance of slowing down, appreciating the journey, and embracing the unknown.

For anyone contemplating a solo motorcycle trip, my advice is simple: prepare well, trust your instincts, and take the plunge. The road will always have a story to tell, and you’ll return with memories that last a lifetime.

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