Get ready to race against the clock at the Return to Cherry Valley 20k TT (Time Trial), a Midwest cycling highlight hosted by Rock River Multisport under the Wisconsin-Illinois Cycling Association (WIIL Cycle) banner. This American Bicycle Racing (ABR)-sanctioned event takes place at Deer Run Forest Preserve in Cherry Valley, IL (5691 River Rd, Cherry Valley, IL 61016), kicking off at 8:00 AM CDT. Part of the Mid America Time Trial Series (MATTS), this 20-kilometer (12.4-mile) solo challenge welcomes riders of all levels—juniors, masters, and open categories—to test their speed on a flat, fast course near the scenic Kishwaukee River. Sponsored by Rock River Multisport, a Stateline-area club passionate about endurance sports, the event blends grassroots camaraderie with competitive edge, offering medals (top 5 per category) and cash prizes ($30 for fastest overall, women, and juniors). Register online at wiilcycle.org/register for $30 (adults) or $15 (juniors 18 & under)—on-site adds $10, open 6:30 AM race day.
The course is a classic out-and-back, starting at Deer Run’s main parking lot off River Road. Riders head west along River Rd, tracing the Kishwaukee River’s south branch, then turn north onto a quiet stretch of rural pavement (likely Blackhawk Rd or a parallel route), hitting the turnaround at 10k before looping back. Expect a mostly flat profile—minimal elevation (~50-75 ft total)—with smooth asphalt and occasional chip-seal patches, ideal for sustained 25-30 mph efforts. The preserve’s 675.6 acres feature restored prairie and floodplain forest, offering golden fields and river views, though the race stays on public roads, not trails.
Cherry Valley 20k TT Weather
Directions
Travel to Deer Run Forest Preserve is straightforward. From Rockford, IL (10 miles northwest): Take IL-2 S to Cherry Valley, turn left onto River Rd—look for the preserve entrance on your right after ~2 miles (15-20 min drive). From Chicago, IL (80 miles southeast): Head west on I-90 W for ~70 miles, exit at IL-173 W (Rockton Rd), go south to IL-2, then left onto River Rd to 5691 River Rd (1.5-2 hr drive). Public Transit: From Chicago, take Metra’s UP-NW line to Harvard, then a rideshare (Uber/Lyft, ~$30-$40, 30 min) to Cherry Valley—check schedules, as rural service is limited. Parking is ample at Deer Run’s lot, with picnic tables, a well, and outhouses nearby—post-race snacks await finishers. Rock River Multisport’s local sponsors (e.g., bike shops, fitness centers) fuel this Illinois cycling event, making it a must-ride in WIIL Cycle’s slate—join us at wiilcycle.org!
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