Stray Kats Kankakee 20k

Sunday, May 17, 20261850 River Rd, Kankakee, IL

5.0(1)

Event Details

Event Type

Time Trial

Location

1850 River RdKankakee, IllinoisOpen in Maps

Links

Website

Upcoming Dates

Sunday, May 17, 2026

Event Location

About This Event

The Stray Kats Kankakee 20k Time Trial is a premier individual "race against the clock" and a staple of the Mid-America Time Trial Series (MATTS). Known as "The Race of Truth," this solo effort strips cycling down to pure power and stamina, offering a high-speed challenge for triathletes and road racers alike without the aid of drafting or pack tactics. Course Profile: The race features a classic out-and-back circuit that is notoriously flat and fast. Starting near Splash Valley Aquatic Park, riders head east on River Road through Illinois prairie land. The most notable elevation change is a slight rise over the I-57 overpass, making it an ideal course for maintaining sustained speeds of 25–30 mph. Race Categories: Competition is split into separate Road Bike and Time Trial (TT) Bike divisions. Road bike categories are strictly non-aero, meaning no aero bars or disc wheels are permitted, ensuring a level playing field. Fields are further divided by age (ranging from Juniors to 90+) and skill level (Cat 1–5). Atmosphere & Safety: The event is held on public roads open to traffic, with riders starting at one-minute intervals to ensure safe spacing. It maintains a welcoming, grassroots vibe typical of the Wisconsin-Illinois cycling community. Prizes & Standings: Participants compete for medals awarded five deep in each category. Finishers also earn MATTS points that contribute toward overall season prize banks and series championship standings. Logistics: Registration and the staging area are traditionally located at the Splash Valley Aquatic Park parking lot in Kankakee, IL

Additional Information

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 your 2025 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—your 2025 ride could too. 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-American Bicycle Racing membership required. Annual $25, Junior $10, One day $5.

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