Second Step Ride

No, this isn't about coming to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.

It's about trying to ride to Three Floyds 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), 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 take the Metra back, 70 if you ride both ways. 14-17 mph. I like to get there before they open at noon (it's the third-best brewery in the world, so sometimes there's a line). Bring money, government-issued ID, a lock, water and snacks to have en route, and panniers for beer you can't get in Chicago.

Online resources: Google map, cue sheet, Metra schedule, Metra rules, and, to save a minute at the start, the nifty online CCC waiver.