Great Lakes - Downtown Chicago Question

I am moving to Chicago from South Florida on April 1. The first four months will be in a temporary apartment at S. Michigan and Congress, right by Grant Park close to the fountain.

I know about the lakefront bikepaths but suspect they may not be ideal for road biking. In South Florida my average ride is 18mph over 30-40 miles. I suspect the lakefront may be similar to Bayshore Blvd in Tampa - wide concrete but not well suited to road biking, except very early AM, due to A TON of rollerbladers, joggers and bikers (not cyclists - people out with their kids, etc) all jockeying for the same space.

First, is my perception accurate? Second, any help anyone can give about ways to go 15-20 miles in any direction and back from the middle of The Loop to average 18-22mph rides is greatly appreciated. Thanks and maybe I'll see you up there in a bit!

First.. your perception about the lakefront path is dead on. You wont be able to ride at 20mph without ramming into someone. In fact, you may find it very difficult ANYWHERE in the city to average that speed. My sugestion is to get a Chicago city bike lane map and go from there. I cant help you with a specific route plan, but the map wiil be a great place for you to start. In the downtown area between traffic and stoplights you will find it difficult to get fast rides in.

Here is a post of the Lakefront path. During the week-early it is rideable it gets more crowded in the middle of the summer. Forget the weekends when it is nice out.
The path is 15 miles from one end to the other.
Anywhere in the city is tough, potholes, traffic. If you are willing to go up north a little bit to Evanston it, you can ride a well travelled route all the way to Kenosha and back which is 100 miles round trip.

http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=228552

Kenal0

These guys nailed dead on...I use to ride the path first thing in the morning when I lived in the city. I miss it...a great ride at that time. Otherwise you'll be dodging volleyball's, kids, old ladies, tourists, and dog crap.

There is a club -I can't remember the name- that has a few rides a week that leaves from the Wrigleyville area. I will find it if your intrested. On the weekends I would load my bike up and head out for a group ride (that I still ride with) in the burbs...I did it often during the week too actually. Let me know if your intrested in that group and I'll add you to the mailing list.

Does the Metra still allow bikes on the weekends and off-peak hours? A $5 Metra weekend pass will get you out to good riding areas. Pretty much take any line until it ends and you'll be in riding territory.

^^The Metra is still bike friendly.^^

For what it's worth, I logged about 3000 miles on the Lakefront path last year. Personally, I think it's a great ride--maybe one of the best kept secrets in Chicago. However, here are some personal observations:

1. With the exception of the area around Navy Pier, the path is wide enough and in decent enough condition to ride at a pretty brisk clip. I routinely average 17-20 MPH on most parts of the path. In places (especially on the south side), I've sometimes clocked speeds in excess of 35 MPH with the help of a very brisk tailwind.

2. If you want to avoid crowds, ride on the south side. It really opens up once you get south of the museum campus. Consider riding from downtown to Hyde Park and back (~15 miles). I can't remember the number of times I've been the only person in sight on the path on the south side.

3. Ride as early in the morning as you can get away with. There are actually a lot of roadies out on the path at 5:30-8:00 am over the summer---and most of them are riding along at a decent clip. At this hour, you'll also avoid most of the problems with small children, dogs, and rollerbladers.

4. Weekends are a nightmare at all hours. During the summer, you will encounter large packs of joggers in the morning. For instance, jogging clubs or multiple groups of 30-50 joggers out doing marathon training or something. There are also a lot of events held over various weekends over the summer (charity walks, triathlon, mini-marathons, etc.). God help you if you get caught up in one of these things. For what it's worth, I still managed to ride almost every weekend last summer---your mileage might vary.

5. The preferred landing spot for the President's helicopter seems to be at 39th street and the lakefront. Much to my amazement, I got booted off the path twice last summer by the secret service/Chicago police. Hopefully Bush will just stay away from Chitown this summer.

Anyways, don't let people tell you the path isn't suitable for road-riding. It's a great resource if you know where and when to go.

Signal11 Nailed it...whatever, you will have to deal with it, if you wish to ride outdoors.

Though I differ with Singal11's Death slowdown characterization;
Death is nature pruning its deadwood! If dead, you passed Go...but will you know?

I am moving to Chicago from South Florida on April 1. The first four months will be in a temporary apartment at S. Michigan and Congress, right by Grant Park close to the fountain.

I know about the lakefront bikepaths but suspect they may not be ideal for road biking. In South Florida my average ride is 18mph over 30-40 miles. I suspect the lakefront may be similar to Bayshore Blvd in Tampa - wide concrete but not well suited to road biking, except very early AM, due to A TON of rollerbladers, joggers and bikers (not cyclists - people out with their kids, etc) all jockeying for the same space.

First, is my perception accurate? Second, any help anyone can give about ways to go 15-20 miles in any direction and back from the middle of The Loop to average 18-22mph rides is greatly appreciated. Thanks and maybe I'll see you up there in a bit!

the path is nice...but there's nothing like, "slipping on by on LSD, friday night trouble bound."

Agreed on the southside comments...I meant to include that. As he said empty and rolling...also quite pretty!

I like the lakefront path a whole lot. It's deserted during the winter :)

Thanks for the great input so far, as well as the link.

Not that this is much help, but I rode that path near the Navy pier on a beautiful August Sunday afternoon last summer ... OMG! :eek: It was like riding through the Wisconsin State Fair on their peak day. I never got out of the 39x21, yet there were folks on their Tri bikes, down on the Rhino Bars hollering "ON YOUR LEFT!" as they jammed down the center line. When we got to just north of Navy Pier, there was a live rock band playing on the roof of the concession stand. THAT was cool.

I'd like to get back down there this summer and take some pics ... it was quite the experience. :)

jw

2. If you want to avoid crowds, ride on the south side. It really opens up once you get south of the museum campus. Consider riding from downtown to Hyde Park and back (~15 miles). I can't remember the number of times I've been the only person in sight on the path on the south side.

3. Ride as early in the morning as you can get away with. There are actually a lot of roadies out on the path at 5:30-8:00 am over the summer---and most of them are riding along at a decent clip. At this hour, you'll also avoid most of the problems with small children, dogs, and rollerbladers.

4. Weekends are a nightmare at all hours.

Anyways, don't let people tell you the path isn't suitable for road-riding. It's a great resource if you know where and when to go.


+1000

There are two play lots adjacent to the path at 31st and at 39/43rd-ish. If you are there early, no problem in the afternoon/evenings keep an eye out and mind your pace.

South of Hyde Park the path gets a bit rough...literally, so mind the surface (sand, leaves in the fall, rather large pavement seperations near the 63rd St. beach).

Man, if you are there already you can manage just fine on the lakefront path. Trust us, in the early am, there is no better place to ride in the Chicago area!

I am with these guys on several points and have a different spin on a few.
Southside lake front bike path gets rough and this time I am not talking surface so take your tazer, a large rock, a can of tuna or mase spray, not gel.
( I can fit a can of tuna up my bike short leg opening and whip it 40 yrds)
OK, you can't ride a bike on (LSD) Lake Shore Drive unless you are trippin and then you'll have one of Chicago's finest put you in a Full Nelson. Next if you race on the lake front bike path except for really really early or, really late someone will throw a mickey into your rear wheel and laugh as you pull gravel from your appendages. Reason people still race on the lake front bike path is just cause they haven’t gone into the pavement yet.
The metra & L are bike friendly like Mayor Dailey is honest, want to lug your ride either up or down 1/2 mile long stairways, your better off sticking it on the front of most CTA city bus's, they have bike racks. In most cases if you try to enter a full train with a bike, the locals will ensure you never forget the ride.

For real, there are some rides into the city where you can open it up but beware of the wildest animal of them all, the car door, evil. Take Chicago st from the city and jag on to Elston, runs along the Illinois river and except a light at Division and North you should flat be able to boogie until Fullerton ( six corners). Either Take Damen ave south to North ave east and back. Or Loop back on Armitage to Elston and home.
Bike routes almost all the way and a fair amount of open space at least for the city.

Welcome

I am with these guys on several points and have a different spin on a few.
Southside lake front bike path gets rough and this time I am not talking surface so take your tazer, a large rock, a can of tuna or mase spray, not gel.


For what it's worth, I've been riding the Southside Lake Front path for more than 7 years and never experienced any problems with the locals or ever had a situation where I remotely feared for my safety. It's really not that big of a deal as long as you maintain your awareness (good advice for any big city).

Next if you race on the lake front bike path except for really really early or, really late someone will throw a mickey into your rear wheel and laugh as you pull gravel from your appendages. Reason people still race on the lake front bike path is just cause they haven’t gone into the pavement yet.

The metra & L are bike friendly like Mayor Dailey is honest, want to lug your ride either up or down 1/2 mile long stairways, your better off sticking it on the front of most CTA city bus's, they have bike racks. In most cases if you try to enter a full train with a bike, the locals will ensure you never forget the ride.

For real, there are some rides into the city where you can open it up but beware of the wildest animal of them all, the car door, evil. Take Chicago st from the city and jag on to Elston, runs along the Illinois river and except a light at Division and North you should flat be able to boogie until Fullerton ( six corners). Either Take Damen ave south to North ave east and back. Or Loop back on Armitage to Elston and home.
Bike routes almost all the way and a fair amount of open space at least for the city.


Sounds alarmist to me...even if you are kidding.

...so you would rather train on the street than on a dedicated bike only path? Good god, why??? The route you describe is 10,000,000 times more dangerous then the south side path at any time of the year or day!

I've been riding the south side, have lived on the south side and work on the south side for years and believe it is fine as long as you are awake, have trued wheels and an acute awareness of the force of gravity.

Dont attempt to ride the CTA or metra during rush hour with a bike (not allowed) and never enter a full train with your bike, it is rude and disrespectful. Find a less crowded car or just wait...better yet, Chicago is not that big...ride!

...it is the Chicago River. The Illinois river is miles and miles and miles south west of Chicago.

(...it is the Chicago River. The Illinois river is miles and miles and miles south west of Chicago)
Simple slip but you know what I meant.

Oh I feel the love, you guys really are from the Southside.I will base my comments on facts: even though my friends thought my post was funny and upbeat what did I expect, no humor here.
The crime statistics for the city of Chicago south of 18th street are very high, The area I suggested which will take you through Bucktown and Wicker Park by the Chicago River is very low.
The lakeshore bike path is not a dedicated race track but a leisure trail.
It is a place for Lance-want-to be's so they can get dressed up to be seen.
Why ride in the city of Chicago? well hundreds and hundreds of miles of dedicated bike paths my friend, thats why.

Not to be rude but I disagree with anybody that says the SS trails arent safe, you obviosuly have never ridden them. The bike path south of 18th st is perfectly safe there are quit a few Lance wannabees that ride that route daily. In fact riding south is one of my favorite places to ride in the city because of the fact that the path is empty. For many people that live downtown like myself it is the most convenient way to clock some miles. I have never once come across a problem on the path , stick to it and you wont have any issues. We were actually looking to buy a condo down near 18th st in a converted factory building and while there are some rough patches for the most part it is a changing neighborhood. Just don't act like an idiot and people will treat you just fine. Slim if you see a guy on a pedal force RS or a black and yellow Scott thats me give me a wave.

The bike path south of 18th st is perfectly safe there are quit a few Lance wannabees that ride that route daily.
This exert is from Wikipedia talking about the Southside of Chicago: “Over 700 murders have occurred there in only 10 years.” And that is a report from just one community, yep I feel all warm and safe.

Here was his original post: Average ride is 18mph over 30-40 miles
I think some missed the thread but I like your approach "I disagree with everyone"
The guy wants to go 18mph and though he might need some speed as the gang bangers chase him down the southern stretches of the Lakeshore path, he can't put 30-40 miles in or, he'd be in Indiana.
A nice loop in the city provides fresh and new scenery around every corner. If I put in thousands of miles on the same single stretch of pavement well it reminds me of the gerbil in the wheel going around and around and around and around.
Hard for a new Chicago resident to see the city if all he is told about is the lakefront path. By far not the only place to ride and (I live downtown too)
Like I said it is where the Lance want-to-be's dress up to be seen on the busiest sections of the path to show off their bling.

Only when you are riding against the elements; cars and busses, chuckholes and uneven pavement, and all the action that occurs in the city can you measure and be measured by the brute strength of the city. Challenges like flying down a 3 feet wide lane at 20 mph with traffic to your left and parked cars to your right, clearly verify if your family jewel’s are made from gelatin or titanium. The real riding and challenges are done on the streets of Chicago and you can open it up and put some miles behind you without seeing the same scenery every ½ hour. Or worrying about some guy with an axe or M-16.

Hey if I see you on the streets of Chicago just give me a wave and I’ll show you my can of Tuna.

This exert is from Wikipedia talking about the Southside of Chicago: “Over 700 murders have occurred there in only 10 years.” And that is a report from just one community, yep I feel all warm and safe.

Hey if I see you on the streets of Chicago just give me a wave and I’ll show you my can of Tuna.

Im sorry but your honestly going to argue a Wikepedia article with people that actually have ridden these routes for years without problem and live in some of these neighborhoods. The neighborhoods have changed in the last 4 years quite a bit, there are still sketchy areas but heck 10 years ago I wouldn't have walked across the Roosevelt bridge. Now I do it every week. Crime happens all over the city its just part of living in an urban environment. Heck I live in the loop in a pretty pricey area and the store down the street got robbed at gunpoint yesterday. Should I not go out anymore, BTW I never said the path was the only option to ride in the city but for quick jaunts it certainly works and its convenient. It was already explained in this thread that if you get out there early enough you can clip along at a good pace. You obvioulsy have a convoluted view of any neighborhood S of Congress and judging by your posts you live on the N side. We can agree to disagree on this point. Bottom line is Chicago has a ton of riding options, if I want to do a real ride I would usually leave the city anyways. Personally there isn't enough open road to keep me satisfied. Definately do the Kenosha ride I try to do it at least once a month during the summer and its well worth the trip.
I carry a large can opener so cans of Tuna are welcome.

It seems pretty clear that this christoph fellow is either a troll or woefully uninformed about the realities of riding on the south side path. Gang bangers? That's really rich. Ha! Then again, those mothers pushing strollers around have sometimes given me an evil eye. Hmmmm.

It seems pretty clear that this christoph fellow is either a troll or woefully uninformed about the realities of riding on the south side path. Gang bangers? That's really rich. Ha! Then again, those mothers pushing strollers around have sometimes given me an evil eye. Hmmmm.

Right a troll really! I am crushed and much too tall for a troll and no beard. Where is my darn tissue for I must dry my eyes. That whole mother with the stroller thing is pretty creepy dude.
No really we are in awe and astonished by your intellectual capabilities. Not able to facilitate a response? (Pretty much no argument that will change statistical crime facts) so you have resorted to name calling & insults. It's all good, if you can't win righteously just knock the chess pieces and board off the table. Checkmate baby!

Im sorry but your honestly going to argue a Wikepedia article with people that actually have ridden these routes for years without problem and live in some of these neighborhoods. The neighborhoods have changed in the last 4 years quite a bit, there are still sketchy areas but heck 10 years ago I wouldn't have walked across the Roosevelt bridge. Now I do it every week. Crime happens all over the city its just part of living in an urban environment. Heck I live in the loop in a pretty pricey area and the store down the street got robbed at gunpoint yesterday. Should I not go out anymore, BTW I never said the path was the only option to ride in the city but for quick jaunts it certainly works and its convenient. It was already explained in this thread that if you get out there early enough you can clip along at a good pace. You obvioulsy have a convoluted view of any neighborhood S of Congress and judging by your posts you live on the N side. We can agree to disagree on this point. Bottom line is Chicago has a ton of riding options, if I want to do a real ride I would usually leave the city anyways. Personally there isn't enough open road to keep me satisfied. Definately do the Kenosha ride I try to do it at least once a month during the summer and its well worth the trip.
I carry a large can opener so cans of Tuna are welcome.

Sorry, nope not a north side snooty face nor do I live in a pricey building but I am glad to hear you do.
I am close to the projects in an area, well lets say it is in transition, yes the city is changing.
You are right of course you could be cut down by violence anywhere, we are all susceptible but based on statistics; more prone to encounter violence south or west. From my orig post & yours the really early and really late on the path has been mentioned. Rides into the city finally received a confirmation from you so I thank you. And the beautiful countryside in Wisconsin was mentioned. I just thought our new friend from FL could use a little diversity and I think we are there. The south has potential and I'd like to snag one of those single family homes but, I won't be recommending the area for a first time visitor to the city.
I dig your style and straight up candor and of course your love for Tuna.
Won't need a can opener cause I’ve been opening these things with my teeth for years.

Right, a troll really! I am crushed, we are in awe and astonished by your intellectual capabilities.
Unable to facilitate a response? Pretty much no argument that will change statistical crime facts so you have resorted to insults. I get it, if you can't win righteously just kick the crud out of them.

Well, look, I'm not trying to get in a big argument here, but it seems to me that you're purposely trying to fear-monger over something for which there is very little actual cause for concern (riding the south-side lakefront path). I'm not going to argue that there is no crime on the south side or even that there is never any crime on the lakefront---there most certainly is. However, throwing out some general murder statistic about the Chicago South Side doesn't really mean anything because a) The south side is a very big place that encompasses far more than the lakefront, b) of all the crimes that might be perpetrated against a cyclist, murder has got to be one of the least likely given that most murders are related to gangs, drugs, and domestic violence (hell, I've never even heard of a cyclist getting randomly shot the whole nine years I've lived here), and c) the large numbers of bicyclists, walkers, joggers, dog walkers, mothers, kite-flyers, swimmers, and others who are out enjoying the south-side lakefront would seem to suggest otherwise that it's especially dangerous place to be in terms of crime.

I have no issue with other parts of your post---that there are other riding options in Chicago. Those are fine suggestions. However,all of this fear mongering about the lakefront is really unwarranted IMHO. I think it would be a shame if someone read the posts here and got the idea that they should avoid one of the nicest places to ride in the city.

BTW: By "trolling" I was merely suggesting that you were posting simply for the purpose of causing an argument (http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=troll). I have no idea if you live under a bridge or not. :rolleyes:

BTW: By "trolling" I was merely suggesting that you were posting simply for the purpose of causing an argument (http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=troll). I have no idea if you live under a bridge or not. :rolleyes:

IT IS ALL GOOD!
( Murder statistics are the mainstream baseline all cities use to measure and project crime)
It is just a measurement of crime not the focus. 1 MURDER equals =
472.8 PURSE SNATCHINGS or, = 64.8 JAY WALKERS, And so on.

A Troll is a compliment, good deal ! (I was gonna go get my Mommy)
Hey, I don't live under a bridge "it's a VIADUCT!"
But, take a look back at my initial post; funny, ok really funny. Me still laughing at the marvelous humor. The whole can of tuna and mace in gel form vs. spray. I fail to see the contempt (And yea there are a bunch that fly below the radar because of the whack, attack, whack, attack mentality on bf)
Not so much to get offended by when we're talking Tuna and Mace gel ? yes ?
But challenge the humor, make it serious and I always produce endless useless facts. I kill at least two trees a day. My intial post was due to the lack of diversity in rides being mentioned so I think you are right on too. PEACE!

BTW: By "trolling" I was merely suggesting that you were posting simply for the purpose of causing an argument (http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=troll). I have no idea if you live under a bridge or not. :rolleyes:

I am thinking about changing my BF profile name to Troll Boy, I like it!

This thread got unhelpful very quickly.

I guess we are all Funned out

I guess we are all Funned out

christoph1, you dear sir, are a moron and did not contribute anything to this post. When one refers to the Chicago river as the Illinois R and then make claims of people getting scrapped on the bike path, then suggest riding through traffic as opposed to a dedicated bike path on the the beautiful shores of lake Michigan (not Lake TEXAS, because I am not sure if you would know what I meant;) ), but then pathetically defend it you OBVIOUSLY know nothing. Go look at a map, notice how big the south side is...ponder that size and the 2.7 million people that live here.

...now go ride that magical loop through traffic, but please be careful.

christoph1, you dear sir, are a moron and did not contribute anything to this post. When one refers to the Chicago river as the Illinois R and then make claims of people getting scrapped on the bike path, then suggest riding through traffic as opposed to a dedicated bike path on the the beautiful shores of lake Michigan (not Lake TEXAS, because I am not sure if you would know what I meant;) ), but then pathetically defend it you OBVIOUSLY know nothing. Go look at a map, notice how big the south side is...ponder that size and the 2.7 million people that live here.

...now go ride that magical loop through traffic, but please be careful.

Why thank you very much I will, wow where is the magic loop? (good one, +1 Slim)
Does that mean you won't be coming for crumpets and Tea? (Troll boy +8)

Hey I figure if your gonna go to the edge it might as well be in traffic where there are a few challenges bigger than " Dude Should I get off at Navy Pier for a snow cone or not?" (Troll boy +12)

You know your suppose to be talking cycling here, all the good places to ride.(Troll boy +1)
Not Loosing your composure and calling me all kinds of names with insults. (-42 Slim)

And yes indeedy, it is mortal sin to call the Chicago River the Illinois, being the pristine body of water that it is and all, straight to Lucifer’s I'll be sent. Thou shalt not call thy Chicago river by any other name!

Loosen up, enjoy life a bit and I look forward your future insults.

Actually it still is helpful...haven't checked in a few days with packing and all, but there is good info throughout. Thanks again to everyone.

I have done a ton of homework about areas, mainly for finding a permanent place to live, so have an idea of the dodgier areas. As for riding aggressively/smartly in traffic, I'd be worried more about ragging out my bike on potholes, etc. and keeping a nice pace between stoplights than dodging cars...I've ridden amongst heavy traffic in Paris and London (doing roundabouts on the wrong side of the road by Trafalgar Square or Place de la Concorde without specific lane recognition is pretty #### fun) so do OK with traffic.

But thanks again to everyone...I can't wait to ride in a new city. Now I just have to toughen up after riding in 80 deg temps nearly year-round.

wow where is the magic loop? (good one, +1 Slim)...
Loosen up, enjoy life a bit and I look forward your future insults.

..um, the one you suggested down Damen, Fullerton, Elston (???)...and I enjoy far more of Chicago that many other forum members and, more importantly, I am not fear mongering and scaring people away from the lakeshore path...so, perhaps I am not the one "uptight":rolleyes:

Seriously, your humor and sarcasm did not come through...

...and back on topic:

Falcone Alpini, check out the Chicago Bicycle Federation (http://www.biketraffic.org/) site for information. They have done a wonderful job promoting cycling and lobying for bike paths and all the "complete streets" legislation that is being pushed (Illinois senate bill 314, I think) and MAPS to find streets with bike lanes to make any commuting easier.

Chicago is one of the most bike friendly big cities in the US, and getting better...
good luck!

SIGH




i plan on taking the train down town some day soon and ride the length of the shoreline. can't wait!


p.s. if i don't post here afterwards, its because i was killed on my ride.

Wow!, I haven't checked this post in a few days and all H$%ll breaks loose!
I ride all summer long south of Soldiers field early in the morning and have not had any problems, then again it is the big city so a little common sense is in order. Riding on city streets at any time besides very early in the morning is a little tough because there is a traffic light every 2 blocks. Tough to get in some hard training but a moderate paced bike ride is not too bad. I prefer rollerbladers, cyclists, runners and walkers to car doors, potholes, cars and buses but that is only personal preference.
Now lets Rodney King this thread and get along!

Kenal0

It may be unnecessary as others have covered the same ground, but I thought I’d throw in my opinion as I have extensive experience riding my bike on the South Side.

I live at 95th and Western and generally commute into the city 5 days a week taking different routes depending on how I feel and what I want to see. Usually it’s Damen to 47th, 47th to Halsted, Halsted all the way.

When I first started a number of years ago I was a bit scared, being a white guy in a mostly black neighborhoods. I calmed down quickly and it soon became routine. I’ve never had a problem.

Many times I’ll take 71st down to the lake and take the path all the way into the city. Who is this kid saying you may get killed on the South Side path? With thousands of rides up and down the entire lakefront I can easily and honestly say (and the others with the same amount of experience agree with me) that the South Side leg of the path is the best, and the best by far. The pavement is new, the crowds have diminished, the space more wide open, the views more interesting.

I’ve logged thousands of miles all over the South Side and into Indiana and love it. I can easily suggest routes of 40, 50, or 100 miles.

North of Oak Street is pure anxiety. It’s too crowded. No way to say for sure, but I bet if you could find a statistic for bike mishaps on the lakefront path, the majority would be on the North side.

I’ve taken my bike on the CTA numerous times and never once had a problem. I get stares, but they are stares of curiosity at my clothes and bike.

I use Metra routinely and never once had a problem. Further, I’ve found the staff to be excellent in dealing with passengers with bicycles. Many many times they’ve cleared the way for me and my bike. What is this kid saying about stairs? I ride my bike. I am fit and strong. I love the challenge of swinging the thing on my shoulder and sprinting up the stairs.

I have never seen a Lance Want To Be. I’ve seen many guys dressed in full lyrca kits riding nice bikes and I’ve studied their faces and calves and see the effort they’ve invested. They’re out there grunting their way into shape. If Lance Armstrong gets them out on their bikes trying to get fit and happy, then I salute them both.

Hey kid, you might think you’re funny and your friends might think you’re funny, but I’m not you and I’m not your friend and like the rest of us here, we don’t find you funny. Get booed off another stage somewhere else.

Great write up, Mayonnaise.

The majority of us have had great times riding on Chicago's streets and have learned how to take the lakefront path with a great deal of caution.

I had my first clipless fall ever at the corner of Illinois and Orleans (I think it was Orleans... it was right at Gene & Georgetti's Steakhouse).

I had one of the most exhilerating rides of my life on the path as the sun was coming up on July 4, 1998, riding from Belmont Harbor down to around 55th as heavy winds were pushing waves across the path and I was splashing through them on my mountain bike. (Yes, I remember the exact date of the ride).

I had bottle rockets shot at me while cruising up Halsted past the Cabrini Green towers on July 4th of the next year. Yes, it was only bottle rockets. So much for stereotypes.

If you live your life scared, you'll miss out on a lot of good stuff.

..um, the one you suggested down Damen, Fullerton, Elston (???)...and I enjoy far more of Chicago that many other forum members and, more importantly, I am not fear mongering and scaring people away from the lakeshore path...so, perhaps I am not the one "uptight":rolleyes:

Seriously, your humor and sarcasm did not come through...

...and back on topic:

Falcone Alpini, check out the Chicago Bicycle Federation (http://www.biketraffic.org/) site for information. They have done a wonderful job promoting cycling and lobying for bike paths and all the "complete streets" legislation that is being pushed (Illinois senate bill 314, I think) and MAPS to find streets with bike lanes to make any commuting easier.

Chicago is one of the most bike friendly big cities in the US, and getting better...
good luck!

Take a look Slimy, many of those routes are on the Chicago Bike Federation site and map as designated bike routes. Yes Damen really is in Chicago.

It may be unnecessary as others have covered the same ground, but I thought I’d throw in my opinion as I have extensive experience riding my bike on the South Side.

I live at 95th and Western and generally commute into the city 5 days a week taking different routes depending on how I feel and what I want to see. Usually it’s Damen to 47th, 47th to Halsted, Halsted all the way.

When I first started a number of years ago I was a bit scared, being a white guy in a mostly black neighborhoods. I calmed down quickly and it soon became routine. I’ve never had a problem.

Many times I’ll take 71st down to the lake and take the path all the way into the city. Who is this kid saying you may get killed on the South Side path? With thousands of rides up and down the entire lakefront I can easily and honestly say (and the others with the same amount of experience agree with me) that the South Side leg of the path is the best, and the best by far. The pavement is new, the crowds have diminished, the space more wide open, the views more interesting.

I’ve logged thousands of miles all over the South Side and into Indiana and love it. I can easily suggest routes of 40, 50, or 100 miles.

North of Oak Street is pure anxiety. It’s too crowded. No way to say for sure, but I bet if you could find a statistic for bike mishaps on the lakefront path, the majority would be on the North side.

I’ve taken my bike on the CTA numerous times and never once had a problem. I get stares, but they are stares of curiosity at my clothes and bike.

I use Metra routinely and never once had a problem. Further, I’ve found the staff to be excellent in dealing with passengers with bicycles. Many many times they’ve cleared the way for me and my bike. What is this kid saying about stairs? I ride my bike. I am fit and strong. I love the challenge of swinging the thing on my shoulder and sprinting up the stairs.

I have never seen a Lance Want To Be. I’ve seen many guys dressed in full lyrca kits riding nice bikes and I’ve studied their faces and calves and see the effort they’ve invested. They’re out there grunting their way into shape. If Lance Armstrong gets them out on their bikes trying to get fit and happy, then I salute them both.

Hey kid, you might think you’re funny and your friends might think you’re funny, but I’m not you and I’m not your friend and like the rest of us here, we don’t find you funny. Get booed off another stage somewhere else.

Dear Lance.
The best snow cones are at.......Navy pier
You have your opinions and I have mine but I won't censor yours. Yes we think it is very funny.
The idea behind diversity is that there are things different than you. I can tell that upsets you that we are not all like-minded. It is a narrow minded cave man mentality. Honey I am no kid,I just am not running around pounding on posters

Give it a rest, Chester.

Take a look Slimy, many of those routes are on the Chicago Bike Federation site and map as designated bike routes. Yes Damen really is in Chicago.

The bike lanes are all wonderful down Damen Fullerton etc, a 3ft lane that every car that wants to get by does not mind driving in, bus lanes that appear every block and a car door opening into the lane every 20 seconds. I agree the Chicago Bike Federation is doing all they can to promote a cycle friendly program however I would rather take my chances on the Southside- far safer than the bike lane.
Of course this is just my opinion.

Kenal0

Hey CHICAGO! Pipe down or Ill come over there and smack ya on the schnaz with a rolled up newspaper! Im trying to sleep over here!


I have never seen a Lance Want To Be. I’ve seen many guys dressed in full lyrca kits riding nice bikes and I’ve studied their faces and calves and see the effort they’ve invested. They’re out there grunting their way into shape. If Lance Armstrong gets them out on their bikes trying to get fit and happy, then I salute them both.

Yeah, "never seen a Lance wannabe... right. Maybe because its you! Seriously though you can find at least 10 in every larger city in the US. I can show you 20 in Seattle and another 20 down in Portland.
Also, sorry to knitpick but sculpted calves a rider does not make. I have big calves and its because of hockey, not cycling. You probably were thinking sculpted quads.

Hey Falcone, did anyone ever tell you that riding around Traf square is insane?! If you can do that, I dont think you will have much of a problem with a city that houses a team like the Blackhawks!

Hey CHICAGO! Pipe down or Ill come over there and smack ya on the schnaz with a rolled up newspaper! Im trying to sleep over here!



Yeah, "never seen a Lance wannabe... right. Maybe because its you! Seriously though you can find at least 10 in every larger city in the US. I can show you 20 in Seattle and another 20 down in Portland.
Also, sorry to knitpick but sculpted calves a rider does not make. I have big calves and its because of hockey, not cycling. You probably were thinking sculpted quads.

Hey Falcone, did anyone ever tell you that riding around Traf square is insane?! If you can do that, I dont think you will have much of a problem with a city that houses a team like the Blackhawks!

Was that really necessary?? It is bad enough having the watch them lose every night but to have it rubbed in on the BF is just not right!!!
Kenal0

Was that really necessary?? It is bad enough having the watch them lose every night but to have it rubbed in on the BF is just not right!!!
Kenal0

Im sorry. But I have it much worse...if you had your team ripped out of your state and brought to a non-hockey state such as Texass over an ultimatum by the scumbag owners wife...like they did in Minnesota, you might be bitter. Yeah MN has the Wild but they are no NorthStars thats for F-ing sure.

I guess I owe another apology for turning this into a hockey thread!

The bike lanes are all wonderful down Damen Fullerton etc, a 3ft lane that every car that wants to get by does not mind driving in, bus lanes that appear every block and a car door opening into the lane every 20 seconds. I agree the Chicago Bike Federation is doing all they can to promote a cycle friendly program however I would rather take my chances on the Southside- far safer than the bike lane.
Of course this is just my opinion.

Kenal0

not necessarily...;)

Im sorry. But I have it much worse...if you had your team ripped out of your state and brought to a non-hockey state such as Texass over an ultimatum by the scumbag owners wife...like they did in Minnesota, you might be bitter. Yeah MN has the Wild but they are no NorthStars thats for F-ing sure.

I guess I owe another apology for turning this into a hockey thread!

As long as Edina did not win the high school state championship, then all is good up there.
Kenal0

The bike lanes are all wonderful down Damen Fullerton etc, a 3ft lane that every car that wants to get by does not mind driving in, bus lanes that appear every block and a car door opening into the lane every 20 seconds. I agree the Chicago Bike Federation is doing all they can to promote a cycle friendly program however I would rather take my chances on the Southside- far safer than the bike lane.
Of course this is just my opinion.

Kenal0


Very nicely said. The Elston designated lane from (yes slim it follows the Chicago river) Chicago St up to Western and beyond can be wide open. Long stretches don’t allow parking. There are several clubs that start and finish in this area.
Damen is ok but as you mentioned you have to have some nerve, I have logged many miles on these bike routes all the way south to I-55 without even a small problem. Nice pavement and if you can time the lights you can rock. Plus if you want a break Flash Taco in Wicker Park is decent. I like a little more action than the Lake Shore provides and I am comfortable with the doors and Bus's guess it depends on how talented you are. That is my opinion.

Yeah, "never seen a Lance wannabe... right. Maybe because its you! Seriously though you can find at least 10 in every larger city in the US. I can show you 20 in Seattle and another 20 down in Portland.
Also, sorry to knitpick but sculpted calves a rider does not make. I have big calves and its because of hockey, not cycling. You probably were thinking sculpted quads.

Hey Falcone, did anyone ever tell you that riding around Traf square is insane?! If you can do that, I dont think you will have much of a problem with a city that houses a team like the Blackhawks!

(Oooh Lance better put some ice on that one it has got to hurt!)

Hey TLN GLAD TO SEE YOUR BACK, HOW IS THAT LEG? :)

Falcone digs the fast lane, in the city.

Great write up, Mayonnaise.

The majority of us have had great times riding on Chicago's streets and have learned how to take the lakefront path with a great deal of caution.

I had my first clipless fall ever at the corner of Illinois and Orleans (I think it was Orleans... it was right at Gene & Georgetti's Steakhouse).

I had one of the most exhilerating rides of my life on the path as the sun was coming up on July 4, 1998, riding from Belmont Harbor down to around 55th as heavy winds were pushing waves across the path and I was splashing through them on my mountain bike. (Yes, I remember the exact date of the ride).

I had bottle rockets shot at me while cruising up Halsted past the Cabrini Green towers on July 4th of the next year. Yes, it was only bottle rockets. So much for stereotypes.

If you live your life scared, you'll miss out on a lot of good stuff.

Not living scared, just not stupid so, the risks I take are calculated. I don’t wear clipless pedals on congested city rides, you could get hurt.
(Please tell Slim, Cabrini-Green is gone so he can come up north)
I regularly ride around where Cabrini was; Evergreen Avenue, Sedgwick Street, Chicago Avenue, and Larrabee Street as I have mentioned. But, I don’t go alone nor would I ever recommend the ride to a first time visitor from Florida, and that isn’t fear mongering.

You have your opinions and you should and I have mine.

Very nicely said. The Elston designated lane from (yes slim it follows the Chicago river) Chicago St up to Western and beyond can be wide open. Long stretches don’t allow parking. There are several clubs that start and finish in this area.
Damen is ok but as you mentioned you have to have some nerve, I have logged many miles on these bike routes all the way south to I-55 without even a small problem. Nice pavement and if you can time the lights you can rock. Plus if you want a break Flash Taco in Wicker Park is decent. I like a little more action than the Lake Shore provides and I am comfortable with the doors and Bus's guess it depends on how talented you are. That is my opinion.

The most sense you have yet made...

Seriously, there is a big difference between commuting and doing a training ride. If you are going to do very long distances (40+ miles), then starting in the city and working out along designated bike lanes to a less congested area is exactly what you should do. Several clubs/teams do this every week out of necessity. However, if you are looking to only do just around 25 miles, then you will bairly leave the city before you filp to come back home. Remember the OP said he was moving downtown and would like to do routes 30-40 miles, the lake front trail one way and back is 36 miles and even better, it is right in front of him. And that afterall, the lakefront, is what the OP focused on...diversity is important, but so is answering the OP...

BTW, I grew up on the north side (Chicago proper), and growing up had a friend and several aquantences that grew up in cabrini, several colleagues, all professionals, that grew up in Stateway & Altgeld Gardens, Horner homes and I commute to my parents home along Elston, ride to work along Damen, Roosevelt and the lakeshore path and do sometimes ride up to and through the north shore...I'll do alright, thanks for the warning though.

Effectivly suggesting caution, and good sense, must come from a reasonable voice, otherwise it falls to hype and will never be taken seriously. ;)