Is anyone thinking of doing the Ride the Drive in Chicago May 29th?

[Bike Writer]

I just came across this ride today and am considering it. I love Chicago and this sounds like another reason to visit. Considering the congestion of traffic I would take the train, try to stay in a hotel near the ride location and just get around by bike while there.

Anyone else doing that ride?

[Pax]

We've done it in the past and it is a bunch of fun! I think we're out this year though as we already have an obligation that day.

[pll]

I've been doing "Bike the Drive" for several years and probably will do it again this year. It's a lot of fun to ride on Lakeshore Drive and being able to take in the views -- it simply looks different than on a car, and very much worth waking up at the crack of dawn.

Last year, the organizers implemented a change that, quite frankly, is very dangerous: in order to catch bandits, they now have at least two checkpoints where everyone is forced out of LSD so that their wristbands are checked, and then back on. That funnels hundreds of riders with varying riding skills into a narrow exit/entry --- you really have to be careful.

Bike the Drive attracts a lot of riders who cannot ride on a straight line, lack the common sense to keep right and instead might veer to the left, usually randomly and without looking. Every year, I have seen an ambulance at some point. You need to be super careful, but it is a blast.

[Bike Writer]

PLL, thanks for the tips about novice riders. I am sorta one too but I do take care in a group or in high people traffic areas. I'm glad you confirmed how much fun this ride can be. Still considering it.

[pll]

Did I mention it's a blast?

One thing I will recommend against is paying for the breakfast. Did one year. I have no spot in my heart (and stomach) for cold pancakes and sausages... Life is too short and there are too many nice places in Chicago for food to be paying for cold, crummy calories.

[Bike Writer]

PLL, hope you go and enjoy the ride, as it turns out I won't be making it this year but it's something to look forward to because it does sound like a blast! It's got to be great riding along the shore of Lake Michigan. Cold breakfast, yuck!