The Bong Single 20 km TT (Time Trial), sponsored by Wisconsin Bicycle Racing (WBR) and hosted by the Wisconsin-Illinois Cycling Association (WIIL Cycle), is a standout solo race in Kenosha County’s Brighton Township. This American Bike Racing (ABR)-sanctioned event launches at 8:00 AM CDT from Brighton Elementary School, with riders starting every 30 seconds as part of the Mid America Time Trial Series (MATTS). The 20-kilometer (12.4-mile) course welcomes all levels – juniors, masters, and open categories – offering a flat, fast challenge perfect for time trialists and newcomers alike. WBR, a Kenosha-area grassroots powerhouse, ensures a top-notch experience with medals for the top 5 per category and $30 cash prizes for the fastest overall, women, and juniors. Register at wiilcycle.org/register for $30 (adults) or $15 (juniors 18 & under)—on-site registration adds $10, available from 6:30 AM. After the finish, enjoy post-race snacks and swap stories at the school, a true Wisconsin cycling event highlight.
The Bong Single 20 km TT course starts at Brighton Elementary, just north of the Richard Bong State Recreation Area, and follows a single out-and-back route along rural roads like County Hwy JB and WI-142. Riders push 10 km west through quiet farmland, hit the turnaround, and race back—totaling 20 km of dead-flat terrain (<50 ft elevation). Smooth asphalt winds past the Bong area’s 4,515 acres of prairie, offering open vistas and minimal turns for sustained 25-30 mph efforts. Open to traffic, safety is key – ride right, use a rear red blinker (highly recommended), and follow marshals at crossings. Past Strava data from Bong TTs shows top times of 25-28 minutes – pure speed rules here.
Single Bong 20 km TT Weather
Late May/Early June weather in Kenosha County typically brings mild conditions, with morning temperatures ranging from 65-75°F – comfortable for an 8:00 AM start. Humidity averages 60-70%, adding a slight stickiness, so hydration remains essential – bring a bottle or two. Winds blow at 8-12 mph, often from the south or southeast, giving a tailwind one way and a headwind the other—pace accordingly. There’s a 20-30% chance of light showers, but early June mornings are usually dry – check forecasts closer to race day.
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).
Responses