I would suggest staying in Smyrna at one of the hotels west off I-24 (off Sam Riddley Highway). I believe that would give you the quickest access to rural roads - start out traveling westbound. Most of the hotels along Exit 78 will force you to get on some of the busiest roads in town.
Someone will need to send him cues. Another name for Smyrna is the Armpit of TN. There is good riding all around this place. You can drive 15 minutes from about anywhere & be out in the country.
Smyrna is not as bad as it used to be. Besides, any hotel west of I-24 would allow him to leave directly from the hotel rather than drive somewhere to get started.