Eleventh Step Ride

No, this isn't about seeking through meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understand Him and praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.

It's about riding to Three Floyds and boosting our cognitive function every month this year! Now there's a consistent schedule -- the 4th Saturday of every month -- others have opportunities to lead (I can't make it every time, including this time), and you can qualify for the F-12 Award.

The ride takes the lakefront trail south from the Clock Tower. You can join up anywhere along the trail. Just let the group know where so they can look for you.

45 miles total if you ride to Flossmoor Station and take the Metra, 50 if you ride to 93rd and take the Metra or to 100th and take the J14, 55 if you ride to 71st and take the J14, 70 if you ride all the way. 15-18 mph. I like to get there before they open at 11:00 (it's still the fourth-best brewery in the world, so sometimes there's a line). Bring money, government-issued ID, a lock, lights since it's getting dark early, water and snacks to have en route, and panniers for beer you can't get in Chicago.

Online resources: Google map, cue sheet, Metra Electric train schedules, Jeffrey Jump (J14) bus schedule, Bikes on the Metra, Bikes on the Bus, and, to save a minute at the start, the nifty online CCC waiver.