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).
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