Singlespeed & Fixed Gear - Trails to Northbrook Velodrome

Howdy Everyone,

Just joined the forum and pieced together my first fixie a small while ago. I've heard mention of 'trails' leading to the Northbrook velodrome here in Chicago. I'm looking to head up that way for the collegiate event at the end of the month, and would appreciate any directions following a *somewhat* safe/sane way to get up there from downtown. I'd take that Metra but that's just not nearly as much fun.

I'm looking forward to meeting you Chi folks in person: see ya on the roads!

= John Quigley =

Take Milwaukee all the way to Waukegan, take Waukegan all the way to Maple. You are there. About 20 miles. The North Branch trail also meanders close to it, but not too close -- I've never taken it.

You are probably talking about the North branch trail. it starts at Milwaukee and Devon. It is a pretty fun, I would try it out. Last time I was on it, I walked off of the trail and ended up getting poison oak.

You can take the North Branch trail, get off at Willow Rd. and go west. Take it to Waukegan (it may curve a bit) and take Waukegan north from there to Maple. Left on Maple.

hey bones, you got poison oak from century day or was this more recent?

quigs, I used to think I wanted to ride out to the track too. but now I'd rather just ride hard AT the track. the metra's not so bad, and I'd take advantage while the bike service is still going — it ends october 30th.

Thanks everyone, some good tips you've given me here. Anyone else thinking of going up for these collegiate games at the track this coming weekend?

= JQ =

it ends october 30th.

What? Is that a permanent thing or just for the winter like "anyone stupid enough to ride in the cold doesn't deserve to grab a warm lift part of the way?"

it was a trial thing. AFAIK they're going to mull it over for a bit and then maybe reinstate the service.