2 Mile Challenge

In the U.S. approximately 40% of urban trips are under 2 miles, yet less than 5% of of those trips are by human power. Clif Bar is sponsoring an event called the 2 Mile Challenge which encourages people to get out of their cars and onto their bikes (or feet) for trips under 2 miles. At the 2 Mile Challenge website, you can map your 2-mile radius and accept a challenge to use human power for trips under 2 miles.

First Chilly Ride of the Season

Chilly ride today, first one of the season. Temps are in the lower 40’s and it’s getting colder every day, proper layering is key. That and Windstopper-Gore. Did a 31-mile loop from Batavia to Aurora from west side to east. And for the first time I stopped at the “cave” I have pasted so many times, it was kinda cool. Very Yoda like. The Catrike was very much at home. Not sure of the full story on the cave area yet, more to come…

Silent Sports Chicago DOT COM is here!!!!!!

Well.... I started my day off today by purchasing

http://silentsportschicago.com/

the site will not be up and running for a few days so stay tuned to the blog until then.

Thanks
Chris

Fox River Trail Ride - Batavia to Elgin

This past weekend I rode from my house in Batavia to the riverboat in Elgin. This was the first time I have done this ride on the trike and the last time I made the ride I was in college and road my bike to my summer job -life guarding at the pool (ahhh).
It really is a beautiful ride and some of my favorite spots on the whole Fox River Trail are in this section. As soon as you past down town St. Charles, it really all begins, huge down hills, long empty street, and better yet empty trails. This section of the trail isn't as heavily used as the section between Geneva and St. Charles. And almost right before you go under the Rt. 20 bridge into Elgin there is the connection to the Prairie Path-Elgin Spur.
So, speaking of Elgin, this is where the trail gets a little funky. Its not like you are going to be shot, but 15 years ago in that spot, you might of. I would recommend not crossing under the Rt. 20 bridge. Why ruin a good ride.
There are a few highlights in the area around South Elgin. First being the train museum, and also a cool house with a few small rail cars and tons of switch post signs.
Also in this area, right after you past the Riverwoods area there is a HUGE downhill that ends with a great bridge that crosses the Fox River.
The ride from Batavia to downtown Elgin and back was around 34 miles and when the weather is right and the trail is empty is RULES.

New Rack System for the Baron

Just added a Old Man Moutain Sherpa rack to the Catrike. Also included a Arkel Tailrider bag that has a build in rainfly.

Album Review: Indigenous - Long Way Home

Band: Indigenous
Album: Long Way Home

So…Indigenous. Chances are you haven’t yet heard of these cats-yet. I remember listening to them and writing the name of the band down a long time ago and forgot all about them until I heard this sweet song “Leaving” on of all thing the TV show “Deadliest Catch”.
They are a band of what I like to call “old souls” deep, complex but young and lively. With heavily driven guitar work these guys just sound familiar. The sound reminds me of a blend of Los Lobos, SRV, and Big Head Todd. When I lump these kinda people to gather I like to call them -Texas Blues. Smooth, deep, complex, close your eyes and just feel it music.
Their latest release “Long Way Home” has that tubey, blues guitar that I can’t get enough of. Make sure you listen to “Rest of My Days”, “Six Feet Down”, “Things We Do”
Additional listens must include; “Evolution Revolution” from the album Circle, and
“The Way You Shake” and “Leaving” off of Chasing the Sun.