Hi everyone-

I've recently began cycling (to be honest, once I turned 16, there was little incentive for me to continue cycling so I stopped at that point), and I would really like to try road races/time trials in 2005. I've looked online for information on local clubs, etc., but I have a few questions for anyone willing to share their advice:

(1) anyone know any Chicago-land cycling clubs that welcome new & inexperience cyclists (I'm all about training next to good cyclists, but not a big fan of being looked down upon)

(2) anyone can recommend any good races for a novice within driving distance of Chicago or sites that list such races?

(3) any other advice.

Thanks much,
Tom

Try South Chicago Wheelmen. They have a web site you can visit. they also have training races every Tuesday starting in April. Great way to get your feet wet.

Yes-

You must call Yojimbo's Garage on North Clybourn and talk to Marcus. Join the XXX (Triple X) team. They take all levels, and they compete. I've seen quite a few of the Triple X folks around, and they are seriously nice folks. When we got used to seeing each other often enough, we started calling out greetings and good-mornings to each other. I know some of the guys there, and they are good people.

I don't know where you really live in Chicago. Often, people say they're from Chicago, but when prompted, we find out they're really in Hinsdale or something. So if you aren't in the Chicago area, give me a better location, and I can give you some other alternatives if Yojimbo's doesn't work out for you.

Koffee

Hey, Hey!! I resemble that. I'm from Chicago ('cough, cough' ummmmm, Lisle).

Any weekend groups you know of? I work nights so weekday groups don't work unless they're riding at like 10 am.

Thanks for much Koffee. You are correct that lots of people who say they are from Chicago, are not actually in the city. I live in Lincoln Park and will check out XXX Racing. Thanks very much.

Please do. They are great guys (and women), and you will really excel with them. They are tops, in my opinion.

Koffee

Hi, Tom.

Here's some useful URLs:

https://www.chibikefed.org/
Chicagoland Bicycle Federation

The resources page has a link to area bike clubs.

A list of bike clubs & teams is at https://www.mikebentley.com/bike/ilclubs.htm

These may get you going.