What factors determine your route choices?

Convenience is my top factor. I like to choose a route that I can take from my house. When I have the time to mount the bike on the car rack and drive to a spot that is a treat.  

How much time do I have? You may have your bike with you and you can ride between work  and  home.  I know that some of you are commuters and your ride is part of getting home.

Safety is a big factor.  How do I feel about car traffic along the route? I prefer to ride on less traveled roads.

Am I excited about my proposed route? I think about where I will ride in advance of departure. Under this factor and several aspects.  Many of us have multiple bikes: mountain, gravel, fat tire, road, etc.  For example if my last ride was on the road, I probably will want to do gravel today.  What is my focus or goal for the ride? I want to set up anticipation and excitement about going outside. What am I looking forward to see along the route?  I like to take photos on the ride.

Will you ride with someone? I will ride by myself almost 100% of the time. I know that with a riding buddy, this becomes a major factor.  

Sunset is earlier in November and darkness comes much faster than in the  summer. Right now I am enjoying the residential rides close to home.  I can get out quickly and I am close to home to beat the dark. I also have options to keep moving and not get slowed down by late afternoon traffic.  I am familiar with various routes and can quickly make adjustments during the ride.  I can create a route that allows 20-30 miles of riding.

The helmet lights always mean that I am ready for darkness.

The weekends are a good time for the longer rides.

I am lucky that within 3/4 mile I can get to a network of gravel roads. Those rides could go for a long time.

What factors influence your ride choices.?