I chose Chikorita in my last play through, because my last play through was a tribute to my first play through of Crystal.
Those times were great. There's more than just nostalgia that's great about it.
Moreover, I like Chikorita, Bayleef, and Meganium a lot.
I'm on my way to soloing Red with my Level 79 Meganium alone.
Oh, and no hold items, no item usage, no cheating, and maybe not even another Pokemon to support.