saturday morning 80 miler

Ron and I met up at the usual place around 630 am. It was dark and humid as all get go at that time. I rode the Quickbeam and was happy to be spinning the 42x18. We started heading south and rode thru Hinsdale and then headed towards Water Fall Glen. We did a loop around the forest in dripping humidity. It was gross. My wool jersey was wet and heavy. We then headed further south and did Bluff rd, took a connector to the Centennial Trail and ended up in Joliet. Our multisurface bikes went from pavement to gravel and back with no hiccups. 
We found another connector trail on the way back that runs along 355 heading north that connects to International Parkway. That was awesome. We took that trail with its steady climb and headed back home. I arrived home with 80 miles on the singlespeed and with a roaring stomach since I only packed 380 calories on me for the ride. I intended to stop and get some food but I had left my cash at home. It was a great day of riding and as I arrived home the weather changed and it rained and stormed for the remainder of the day. 
We have planned to learn how to continue on the I and M  canal trail once we get to Joliet. Then its on to Channahon and Starved Rock by bike. Trail riding in the fall is awesome. 
Ari

Hot and Humid for an October Day.

Des Plaines river looking west.

This was stenciled high up in a Bridge Pillar. Now its turn where the No Jake sign is. 

Beautiful Bike. Just not my cup of tea. Hydraulic Brakes, 11 speed, Carbon everything. Narrow clearance for "race tires", internal bearings.