I'm planning a bike tour from Chicago to Austin and am looking for suggestions on a route through Illinois. I'm looking to do some ridiculous daily mileages, so my ideal route is flat, on a minimal number of roads (fewer instructions to screw up when I'm tired), with no emphasis on being scenic. Boring roads with shoulders are great!
My guess is that the best Miss. river crossing for a less hilly route will be at Chester, IL. What's the best way to make it there (or a better crossing in the area) in minimal time?