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Road Bicycling

Road bicycling can be a broad term. It can represent commuter, sport, or leisure biking that takes place either on a path or public roads. This page will represent the interests of all three of these categories. Whether you have an expensive road bike or a hand-me-down single speed, if you want to improve your cycling adventures, we can help.

Staff Favorite Places - Bryan Julian

Constitution Trail - Bloomington to Normal, IL

Bloomington/Normal is lucky enough to have one of the best trails in Illinois. Throughout its scenic beauty, you will find references to the United States Constitution from its opening on the 200th anniversary of the ratification. There are over 24 miles of paved pathway, much of which lies along the old Illinois Central Gulf Railroad bed. It has access to water along the entire trail and few bathroom amenities making it family friendly. This is one of the real gems of the twin cities.

Long Prairie Trail - Rockton to Chemung, IL

Like the Constitution Trail, this trail resides on part of an old Kenosha Division Rail Line. It runs from Chemung, IL to Rockton, IL, covering about 20 miles. Like the name says, it roams throughout the northern Illinois prairies. It runs over many creeks using old wooden bridges making it very rustic. While there are only a few locations to use restroom facilities or obtain water, this pathway is one of the most beautiful in Illinois.

Find your own location

  • TrailLink Looking for the best trails to ride? This incredible website highlights all the major trails of each state. It has lists, trail descriptions, history, amenities, length, maps, and usually has a reel of photos to highlight the best parts of the trail. (You will need to create an account and will need an active email address.)

Instruction

  • How to change an inner bike tube Learn how to change your own popped tube within your bike tire. This video shows you all the right tools and strategies to accomplish the somewhat difficult tasks.
  • How to change a bike chain Is your chain starting to slip? Is there any rust on it? It might be time to change your chain. This video demonstrates the tools and strategy necessary for replacing a chain on your bike. (Note: If you have changed your chain before, you might also need to change your cogs and gear sets. A worn gear will strip a new chain.)
  • Handheld tire pumps vs. CO2 cartridges What happens when you run into a flat tire while you’re out on the road? This video explains what the benefits of a CO2 cartridge can be over a small handheld pump.
  • Bicycling gear to save or splurge on Bicycling can be expensive. This link from Bicycling Magazine discusses some of the gear you can save on and some of the items you might want to spend the extra buck on.
  • Fitting a Road Bike Performance can be greatly reduced by the wrong fit for the bike. Make sure you take the time to either use this video or take your bike to the pros and assure the proper fit.

Safety

  • Road ID Do you or a family member want peace of mind? A Road ID might be just the item you are looking for. Worn on your wrist, ankle, shoe, or neck, this stainless steel surgical grade, identification will be able to give others critical information in the event that you cannot. “If you can't speak for yourself, Road ID will speak for you.” Make sure you don’t overlook this one.
  • Cyber Drive Illinois Before you go out on an adventure, make sure you are familiar with the Illinois Rules of the Road for bicyclists
  • Top ten items to carry when cycling Wondering what personal belongings to bring on your next adventure? This video goes through the ten most important items you might want to pack with you before you head out. Start thinking ahead and watch!

Local Bike Shops

2023-03-15T15:09:29.883963-07:00 2023