Trophy Teaser

The categories are still up in the air, but the trophies are almost finished.  Yes, they do light up if you spin the base fast enough. Thanks to the folks at Revolution Cycles for letting me rummage through their basement.

Stock up on sleep

The border ride is a week away, there isn't much to say but I figure that it's comforting for riders to see fresh words show up here so here's some rehashing of stuff you need to know.

First and foremost, this ride is unsupported, there is no sag wagon, and no one is keeping track of you so be prepared to take care of yourself.  It would be wise to let someone who cares about your wellbeing know what you are up to. We'll all be watching out for each other (I'm looking at you, everyone), so you'll be in good company, but when it comes to support you get what you pay for and there is no official entry fee.

Dangers include small and large animals on the trail (last year included multiple bat and raccoon strikes), many gopher holes, and road crossings. Anyone who gets hit by a car is disqualified. Anyone who fails to warn other riders of an approaching vehicle is subject to a mandatory group beating. Seriously folks, be careful at the crossings, some of them are blind and even though traffic will be light a few cars are bound to cross the pack.

I assume everyone will have headlights but please also put a tail light on your bike.  Obnoxious accessory lighting is encouraged.

There will be a tip jar passed around at the start, a small bit will be skimmed off to cover costs but the rest goes directly to the Friends of the Badger State Trail who look after the stretch of the path that accounts for most of the route.

Queue Sheet:

Start at intersection of S Carroll st and West Washington Ave

Head SouthWest on West Washington Ave

SW Commuter bike path - Right - 0.6

Badger State Trail - Straight - 5.8

Illinois Border - Turn around - 45.7

Back the way you came 

Map:

http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/49406514

There will be a nice easy parade pace forced for the first 6 miles to keep people from darting through intersections in town, when the trail crosses highway PD the pace bike will step out of the way and the hammering can begin. 

Only the first half mile is on road, the rest is on bike path and crushed gravel rail trail. Pretty much any bike is appropriate; roadies, fatties and tandems will be in attendance.

There is no bad weather, only bad clothing.  The ride goes on under any sky.

TL;DR

Notify a loved one, bring a tail light, don't get hurt.