The Double Bong 20/40 km TT (Time Trial), sponsored by Wisconsin Bicycle Racing (WBR) and hosted by the Wisconsin-Illinois Cycling Association (WIIL Cycle), is a premier Midwest cycling event that doubles down on speed and endurance. This American Bicycle Racing (ABR)-sanctioned race unfolds in Kenosha County’s Brighton Township at the Richard Bong State Recreation Area, starting at 8:00 AM CDT with riders launching every 30 seconds. Part of the Mid America Time Trial Series (MATTS), this 40-kilometer (24.8-mile) solo challenge welcomes all levels—juniors, masters, and open categories—offering a flat, fast course perfect for time trialists and road racers alike. WBR, a Kenosha-area grassroots force, brings passion and precision, with medals for the top 5 per category and $30 cash prizes for the fastest overall, women, and juniors. Register online at wiilcycle.org/register for $30 (adults) or $15 (juniors 18 & under)- on-site registration adds $10, opening at 6:30 AM.
The course is a double-loop gem, starting near the Bong Recreation Area’s Special Use Zone parking lot off County Hwy JB. Riders tackle two identical 20k circuits, heading west on quiet rural roads—likely JB and 312th Ave – before looping back via straightaways like WI-142. It’s pancake-flat (elevation <50 ft total), with smooth asphalt and minimal turns, built for 25-30 mph efforts over 24.8 miles. The recreation area’s 4,515 acres feature prairie vistas and distant tree lines, offering a distraction-free focus on speed. Open to traffic, safety rules apply—ride right, use a rear red blinker (highly recommended), and follow marshals at key points. Strava data from past Double Bong TTs shows top riders clocking 45-50 minutes – pure power reigns here. Post-race, enjoy snacks and swap tales at the lot, soaking in WIIL Cycle’s community vibe.
Double Bong 20/40 km TT Weather
Late summer weather at Bong brings warm conditions, with temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F by morning, often climbing to the low 80s. Humidity hovers at 70-80%, making it a sweaty affair – hydration is non-negotiable, so pack two bottles. Winds blow steady at 10-15 mph, often from the south or southwest, giving a push on one leg but a grind on the return-pace smartly. There’s a 30-40% chance of scattered showers or thunderstorms, though mornings usually stay dry – check forecasts close to race day to adjust gear.
Travel Directions
- From Milwaukee, WI (35 miles northeast): Take I-94 W south for ~30 miles, exit at WI-142 W (Exit 291) toward Burlington, go west 4 miles, turn left onto 248th Ave (County Hwy A), and proceed ~1 mile to 1200 248th Ave—school is on your left (40-50 min drive).
- From Kenosha, WI (15 miles east): Head west on WI-142 W for ~13 miles, passing Bong Recreation Area, then turn left onto 248th Ave (County Hwy A), continue ~1 mile to 1200 248th Ave—school is on your left (20-25 min drive).
- From Madison, WI (80 miles northwest): Drive east on I-94 E for ~70 miles, exit at WI-20 E (Exit 333) toward Racine, go east 2 miles, turn right onto WI-75 S, follow 5 miles to WI-142 E, turn left, go 1 mile, then right onto 248th Ave to 1200 248th Ave (1.5-1.75 hr drive).
- From Chicago, IL (65 miles south): Take I-94 E north for ~55 miles into WI, exit at WI-142 W (Exit 291), head west 4 miles, turn left onto 248th Ave (County Hwy A), and drive ~1 mile to 1200 248th Ave—school is on your left (1-1.5 hr drive).
Looking forward to this event