As spring unfolds and the cycling season revs up, riders face a choice: coast into training or hit the ground rolling with a race. An early-season time trial like the MATTS ABD John Fraser TT on April 13 is the perfect way to jumpstart your year. Known as the “race of truth,” a time trial strips it down to you, your bike, and the clock—no drafting, no excuses. Here’s why riders of all levels should head to Maple Park, Illinois on April 13.
Benchmark Your Winter Gains
Winter training—whether hammering Zwift or braving frosty roads—sets the stage for your season. But how do you measure it? The John Fraser TT’s 7.36-mile flat, fast out-and-back course, with just one turnaround and a couple of easy curves, is built for speed and simplicity. Current record holder Dan Casper blazed it in 14:39, averaging over 30 mph—a mark to marvel at or chase. Your time on this straightforward layout gives you a clean, early snapshot of your power and endurance to track all season long. Plus, we’ll run the exact same course at the Fall Fling on September 14, so you can see how much you’ve improved by summer’s end.
Give Your Training Focus and Purpose
Locking in the John Fraser TT on April 13 transforms your winter grind into a mission. With a firm date on a fast, flat course, your rides gain purpose—whether it’s nailing threshold efforts, building speed, or fine-tuning your position. That early target keeps you honest and motivated, turning every pedal stroke into prep for a sub-15-minute shot at glory (or just a personal best). It’s the kick you need to make those early miles matter.
Sharpen Your Race-Ready Mindset
Time trials hone mental toughness and pacing—skills that elevate every ride. The John Fraser TT’s solo format demands you stay dialed in over its quick 7.36 miles, pushing through discomfort without a pack to lean on. Held early in the season, it’s a low-pressure way to reignite your competitive fire before the chaos of criteriums and group rides. Welcoming all bikes and abilities, it’s an ideal reentry—or debut—into racing.
Test Your Gear and Tactics
April’s fickle weather—cool breezes or damp asphalt—mirrors the season’s challenges. This flat, non-technical course lets you experiment with your setup: road bike or TT rig? Deep wheels or light climbers? The single turnaround and gentle curves keep it simple, so you can focus on power and aero efficiency. Casper’s 30+ mph pace proves what’s possible with the right combo—use April 13 to find yours and tweak it by the Fall Fling redo on September 14.
Set the Tone for the Season
Nailing an early time trial builds momentum. At just 7.36 miles, the John Fraser TT is short enough to feel achievable yet fast enough to fire you up. As the opener for the Mid-America Time Trial Series (MATTS), it draws a diverse field—juniors to masters, casual riders to speed demons. And, you’ll earn points toward the season long MATTS and Rider of the Year (ROTY) awards while your competition may be still in their basement! Finishing strong on April 13 plants a seed of confidence that grows all season. Can’t make it? Mark your calendar for the Rock River Multisport Cherry Valley 20K TT on April 27—all the same benefits apply.
Embrace the Community Vibe
Time trials blend solo effort with a shared vibe. The John Fraser TT brings out a friendly crew eager to kick things off, and after you’ve crushed the course, you can swap stories over free coffee and donuts at Lions Park in Maple Park (a perk for all riders and volunteers). The MATTS team runs a tight ship—smooth organization means you focus on riding, not logistics. It’s a perfect mix of competition and connection.
Why April 13 Matters
Just 11 days away (as of April 2, 2025), the John Fraser TT is timed to wake you up without clashing with summer races. Its flat, fast profile and 7.36-mile length make it approachable yet challenging—ideal for testing your legs early. Casper’s 14:39 record sets the bar high, but the real win is starting strong. If April 13 doesn’t work, the Cherry Valley 20K on April 27 offers another shot at the same gains. Either way, post-race coffee and donuts await.
Sign up, rip the course, and let April 13—or April 27—launch your season. Your bike’s ready. Are you?