WI/IL Cycling Association

2026 MATTS Stray Kats Racing Kankakee 20K Individual Time Trial
2026-05-17 08:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | Splash Valley Aquatic Park, 1850 River Rd, Kankakee, IL, 60901, United States
Race Flyer
The Kankakee 20k TT (Time Trial) rolls is a cornerstone of Illinois cycling, sponsored by Stray Kats Racing in the heart of Kankakee County. This solo race against the clock pits riders against a flat, fast 20-kilometer course along the Kankakee River – a perfect stage for triathletes, road racers, and first-timers alike to test their speed and stamina. Known as “The Race of Truth,” time trials strip cycling to its core: you, your bike, and pure effort – no drafting, no pack tactics, just power versus time. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or dipping into competitive cycling, the Kankakee 20k TT offers a welcoming, grassroots vibe amid Illinois’ wide-open prairie.
The Course: Flat, Fast, and Midwest-Fresh
The Kankakee 20k TT course is a classic out-and-back, starting and near Splash Valley WaterPark. Riders head east on River Road, then loop back after 10k—mostly flat with a slight rise over the I-57 overpass. Asphalt and chip-seal surfaces are in good shape, offering smooth rolling despite rural charm. Expect:

Terrain: Flat (0-1% grades), minimal elevation (~50 ft)—ideal for 25-30 mph efforts.
Scenery: Golden fields, the Kankakee River’s edge, and occasional barns—pure Midwest vistas.
Conditions: May brings 60-75°F temps, 60-70% humidity, and 10-15 mph winds—tailwind out, headwind back (or vice versa).

Open to traffic, the course demands caution—ride right, use a rear red blinker (highly recommended), and watch intersections (marshals assist). It’s less technical than Wisconsin’s hilly TTs, making it a speed lover’s dream and a forgiving intro for newbies. Strava data from past years shows top riders averaging 26-28 mph—can you beat it?
Why Ride the Kankakee 20k TT?
This TT isn’t just another race—it’s a Midwest cycling rite. Here’s why it belongs on this year’s calendar:

Solo Glory: No pack to chase—just your power against the clock, a true test of fitness.
Accessibility: The Road Bike category levels the field—ride what you’ve got, no TT bike required.
Community Vibe: WIIL Cycle’s grassroots spirit shines—post-race chats at Splash Valley unite riders of all stripes.
Strategic Edge: For triathletes or road racers, it’s a pacing and aero lab—skills that carry to bigger events.

Kankakee’s Cycling Legacy
Kankakee County has quietly grown into an Illinois cycling hub, with the 20k TT building on events like the Two Rivers Century. Its flat roads—once farm paths—now host speed demons and endurance riders alike. WIIL Cycle tapped this vibe, making the Kankakee 20k a staple since its grassroots debut. Local lore ties it to the river’s flow—steady, strong, and unyielding—mirroring the TT’s solo ethos. Past winners averaged 27 mph, but every finisher adds to the story.
9 am start, with one minute intervals. Day of event opens 8 am.
Kankakee 20k TT Entry Fees

Adults $30
Juniors 18 & under $15
2nd race $10
ABR membership required: purchase one day $10 ($5 for Junior) or Annual $30, ($10 for Junior)

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MATTS Herscher Two Person 25-50k Team Time Trial 2026
2026-07-05 08:00 - 12:00 | Herscher Village Park, 272 E 2nd St, Herscher, IL, 60941, United States
Race Flyer
The Herscher Two Person Team TT (Time Trial), sponsored by Stray Kats Racing and hosted by the Wisconsin-Illinois Cycling Association (WIIL Cycle), is a unique tandem race in Herscher, IL, starting at Herscher Community Park (272 E 2nd St, Herscher, IL 60941). This American Bike Racing (ABR)-sanctioned event begins at 8:00 AM CDT, with teams of two launching every two minutes as part of the Mid America Time Trial Series (MATTS). Offering 25 km (15.5 miles) or 50 km (31 miles) options, this flat, fast course welcomes pairs across all levels—juniors, masters, and open categories—emphasizing teamwork and drafting strategy. Stray Kats Racing, a southern Wisconsin grassroots crew, awards medals for the top 5 teams per category and merchandise prizes (e.g., Bioshield T-9, Sapim donations) for top finishers. Register at wiilcycle.org/register—$30 per rider ($60/team) or $15 per junior ($30/team)—on-site adds $10, opening at 6:30 AM. Post-race, relax with snacks at the tree-lined park, a highlight of Illinois cycling events.
The course is a smooth out-and-back, starting at Herscher Community Park near IL-115. Teams head east on 2nd St, then north onto rural roads like County Rd 2700 E, hitting a 12.5 km (25 km race) or 25 km (50 km race) turnaround before returning. It’s dead flat (<50 ft elevation), with well-paved asphalt winding through Kankakee County’s open farmland—ideal for 25-30 mph efforts with a drafting partner. Sparse scenery keeps focus on pacing and coordination, as the trailing rider’s time sets the team’s finish. Open to traffic, safety is key—ride right, use a rear red blinker (highly recommended), and follow marshals. Past Herscher TTs show top 25 km times around 35-40 minutes—sync up for speed on this Midwest gem.
Herscher Two Person Team TT Weather
Early July weather in Herscher brings warm, humid conditions, with morning temperatures ranging from 70-80°F at the 8:00 AM start—expect a sticky rollout. Humidity averages 75-85%, amplifying the heat—bring two bottles per rider for hydration. Winds blow at 8-12 mph, often from the south or southwest, offering a tailwind one way and headwind the other—pace as a unit to leverage drafts. There’s a 30-40% chance of scattered showers or thunderstorms, though mornings often stay clear—check forecasts closer to race day for gear tweaks.
Travel Directions

From Milwaukee, WI (120 miles southwest): Take I-94 W south ~80 miles to I-294 S, exit at I-55 S (Exit 277), go south 30 miles to IL-115 S (Exit 227), follow 10 miles to Herscher, turn left onto 2nd St to 272 E 2nd St (2-2.25 hr drive).
From Madison, WI (140 miles southeast): Drive south on I-90 E ~100 miles to I-39 S, take I-55 S (Exit 97), go south 30 miles to IL-115 S (Exit 227), follow 10 miles to Herscher, turn left onto 2nd St to 272 E 2nd St (2.25-2.5 hr drive).
From Chicago, IL (70 miles southwest): Take I-55 S ~60 miles to IL-115 S (Exit 227), go south 10 miles to Herscher, turn left onto 2nd St to 272 E 2nd St (1.25-1.5 hr drive).

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2026 TOI/W Two Rivers ABR Illinois & Indiana Championship Road Race
2026-08-02 08:00 - 17:00 | Aroma Park, Illinois 60964, 384 River Run Dr, Aroma Park, IL, 60964, United States
Race Flyer
Seize your chance to compete for glory at the Illinois Road Race Championship in Aroma Park! Hosted by the Wisconsin-Illinois Cycling Association, sanctioned by American Bicycle Racing (ABR), and proudly sponsored by Stray Kats Racing, this premier road racing event unfolds on a challenging 10.9-mile loop in Aroma Park, IL—about 60 miles south of Chicago. Starting near Vanderkarr Rd (3500S Rd) with parking on River Run Dr or Stone Bridge Woods, the course features beautiful Kankakee County roads with rolling terrain, flat stretches, mostly paved surfaces, chip seal sections, half a mile of wide two-track roads, and a long uphill finish. Categories range from Juniors to Masters, with distances of 10.9 to 54.5 miles (1-5 laps) and awards including 1st through 5th place medals plus ABR/Illinois Championship jerseys for winners (must be an ABR member to win a jersey). Open to all skill levels, this championship offers a shot at the state title, a vibrant community atmosphere, and neutral support with spare wheels available. Dig deep, conquer the course, and etch your name in Illinois road racing history!
Illinois Road Race Championship Weather
Early August in Aroma Park, IL brings warm, sunny racing conditions, with average highs of 80-85°F and occasional chances of brief showers. Dress for hot, energetic miles, with humid mornings transitioning to bright, lively afternoons—ideal weather to fuel your road racing passion!
Be sure to check the Aroma Park venue listing for accurate race course check-in location.
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Map

[Coming Soon] AS SKR ABD Fall Fling - Al Stern RR
2026-09-12 08:00 - 12:00 | Railroad Bridge Park, 101 1st St, Aroma Park, IL, 60964, United States
Race Flyer
Close out the ABD Fall Fling Omnium with a bang in Aroma Park, IL – the ABD Fall Fling Road Race hosted by the Wisconsin-Illinois Cycling Association. Sanctioned by American Bicycle Racing (ABR), and proudly sponsored by Athletes by Design, this electrifying road racing criterium takes place on a thrilling, fast-paced circuit in Aroma Park, IL—about 60 miles south of Chicago. Welcoming riders of all experience levels, from first-timers to omnium contenders, this event blends high-energy criterium racing with the charm of a tight-knit rural community. Sprint for glory, connect with fellow cyclists, and make this final stage a race to remember!
Fees
$30 Men & Women 1,2,3
$25 all other races
Prizes and/or Medals for top 5 in each category in The Al Stern RR (see flyer)
Fall Fling Flyer – TBD
***If not enough participants (10) in each category omnium, NO overall Payout***
points for overall Fall Fling omnium for participants that race all four events
crits- 1st-20pts, 2nd-18pts, 3rd-16pts, 4th-14, 5th-12, 6th-10, 7th-8, 8th-6, 9th-4, 10th-2
Road Race- 1st-20pts, 2nd-18pts, 3rd-16pts, 4th-14, 5th-12, 6th-10, 7th-8, 8th-6, 9th-4, 10th-2
Time Trial- 1st-20pts, 2nd-19pts, 3rd-18pts, 4th-17, 5th-16, 6th-15, 7th-14, 8th-14, 9th-12, 10th-11, 11th-10, 12th- 9, 13th-8, 14th-7, 15th-6, 16th-5, 17th-4, 18th-3, 19th-2, 20th-1pt.
If tied in points, best result on last day to break tie
***Overall Payout (must meet criteria of 10 racers in your category in all 4 events)
***Masters 50+ / 1st – $100, 2nd – $80, 3rd – $60
***Men & Women 1,2,3 / 1st – $150, 2nd – $100, 3rd – $75
Fall Fling Weather
Mid-September in Aroma Park brings comfortable racing conditions, with average highs of 70-75°F and a mix of sunny days and occasional light showers. Dress for pleasant laps, with cool mornings warming up to mild, vibrant afternoons—perfect weather to power your criterium racing performance!
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