Despite a forecast for a warmer day, I am going to leave the start time at 9am due to schools still being in session along the route this week. Look for times to move earlier with Summer temperatures in future weeks. Julie McMillian will take the lead on the B group in John Riordan's absence.
This road ride will follow Isaac's classic Blue Skies route from Lombard to St. Charles (Panera), including the Reverse Munger Loop. I expect to hold the upper end of the posted rolling speed, with optional (read: likely) sprints. Truth in Advertising: The A Group is in mid-season form and averaging ~18-19 mph.
Julie McMillian will be leading the B Group at a pace at the lower end of the posted pace. The B Group will make a separate decision on whether to include the Reverse Munger Loop based on the strength and pace of the group. Truth in Advertising: The B Group is averaging about ~16 mph.
The split group allows riders to find their pace, break off in pairs, or jump from group to group at different portions of the ride. We hope this will become a regular feature of the Friday ride, allowing riders to push themselves while being confident they don’t have to ride alone.
All riders from either group are always welcome to bypass the RML.
We will face some hills, rollers, and open road with narrow shoulders, so a road bike and some road riding experience is highly recommended. Ample regroup opportunities. No one will be dropped.
Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.