The Joliet ride was cold, partially rainy, and more cold. Being in a group with nobody talking (obviously, hence ride of silence) was a little wierd. The police escort was pretty-neat though. There were 5 cop cars in the parking lot, but I think only 4 were escorting us, as the other car shuttled a bike-cop that rode the route with us. I'm not sure if the police escort is common with this type of event, but it was neat riding though major intersections of 4-lane roads without even slowing down.

The downside: although there were a couple trucks/vans with banners stating what the ride was for, and under flashing-light escort of police, people still yelled/heckled at the group of riders. I'd really like to know why people have so much hate in their hearts towards cyclists. Granted, I've only been at this for just over a year, but I can't think of a reason to hate cyclists?