What we’re about
For more information about BCLC memebership and club rides check out our Web Site!
bikebclc.com
Looking for fun and fitness on two wheels in the northern suburbs of Chicago? <br>Then look no further than the Bicycle Club of Lake County.
Since 1977, BCLC has offered rides in length from ten miles for families to daylong tours of 75 miles or more for experienced cyclists — all led by fellow club members who know the lightly traveled, most scenic routes and out-of-the-way refreshment stops. In addition, the club holds monthly meetings and frequent social activities. Want to try biking on the off-road trails through the forest preserves? BCLC will take you there.
Prefer road riding, or even competitive biking? BCLC members do that, too. Have an idea for a bike trip that you would like to lead? Club members are encouraged to participate in planning new activities.
Want to learn how to cycle more comfortably, do minor cycle repairs yourself, keep in shape in the off-season, or lobby for more trails? BCLC meetings offer education to enthusiasts on a variety of such topics, as well as fellowship. Informative meetings are held the 4th Tuesday of the month, four times a year starting at 7:00 p.m. at the Libertyville Civic Center, Room E on the lower level. View the Calendar
Looking for companionship on weekend or week long bike tours throughout the U.S. and beyond? You’ll find some of BCLC’s over 200 members there, too. There are club parties and social outings as well. You’ll be able to keep track of all the activities through the club’s monthly newsletter and website.
Interested in cycling, but unsure of what equipment to buy? <br>Members will share their expertise and experience and your club membership will earn you discounts at selected bike shops in the area. The club welcomes visitors to meetings, club rides, and our annual non-competitive bike event, the Ramble. All Ramble routes are marked and serviced by sag vehicles (for minor repairs and support along the way). The route features a centrally located rest stop, which insures that riders have regular opportunities to refuel. Every year, club volunteers staff the event, ensuring that the more than 500 cyclists expected to pedal through the scenic lakes region enjoy their day. Funds raised from the Ramble are used to support local club activities, as well as state and regional bicycle advocacy organizations that promote better cycling conditions.
BCLC is an affiliate member of Active Transportation Alliance, American Bicycle Racing, Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin, League of American Bicyclists, League of Illinois Bicyclists, Rails to Trails Conservancy.
To find out more about BCLC, come to a meeting or ride with us. We are a truly diverse group and growing every day.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Unlocking the Adventure: Your Ultimate Guide to BikepackingLink visible for attendees
****VIRTUAL EVENT****
Join Us for an Unforgettable Journey into Bikepacking!
Have you ever dreamed of hopping on your bike and venturing into the great outdoors? Bikepacking might just be the adventure you’ve been seeking! Whether you’re interested in camping or staying in hotels, our upcoming webinar will inspire and equip you with the knowledge needed to embark on a bikepacking journey.Why Should You Join?
Expert Panelists: We’ve assembled a dream team of experienced bikepackers who can’t wait to share their insights with you. Meet Kelly O’Brien, a Chicago-based endurance cyclist with a love for gravel and adventure; Kim Carlson, an outdoor enthusiast who discovered bikepacking during the pandemic; and Kat Leyh, a ride leader with Out Our Front Door (OOFD.org).
Informative Topics: From using any bike (gravel, road, MTB) to planning the perfect route, our panelists will delve into the essentials of bikepacking. Expect to learn about bike setup, gear choices, route planning, and personal safety.
Inspiring Stories: Our three panelists will share their favorite bikepacking trips and experiences. You’ll be inspired to plan your adventure!
Interactive Q&A: Got questions? You’ll have the chance to ask our panelists your burning questions.Moderator:
Sheri Rosenbaum: Cycling has been a passion for over 30 years, sharing her knowledge and love for cycling with those new to the sport and long-time cyclists of all ages and abilities. She’s an advocate for women’s cycling, with a goal to have more women riding. Also, Sheri pushes riders to get out of their comfort zone and accomplish things they never thought were possible. Sheri writes for Road Bike Rider, is a blogger (Sunflowers and Pedals), and has been an ambassador for brands like Trek, Pearl Izumi, Jules Threads, and Strava.Panelists:
Kelly O’Brien: A Chicago-based endurance cyclist focused on gravel and adventure riding since 2019. From big events like The Mid South in Oklahoma and SBT GRVL in Colorado to local grassroots events like The Ten Thousand in the Illinois Driftless, she loves exploring the unpaved and roughest roads possible. She specializes in route planning and point-to-point riding. She’s ridden mostly solo from Chicago to St. Louis, Indianapolis, Madison, and more. Her day job is creating content for SRAM Road, teaching other riders how to use and maintain their SRAM-equipped bikes.
Kim Carlson: A lover of the outdoors, especially when experiencing it on two wheels. She got into bike packing during the pandemic as a way to stay active and explore with friends. She always travels with multiple ways to prepare a good cup of coffee, including a portable espresso maker. Her favorite bikepacking trip has been biking to the Mississippi River via the I&M and Hennepin Canal trails, and next year, she plans to bike around Lake Michigan.
Kat Leyh: Kat travels everywhere by bike. When she first found bike camping through Out Our Front Door (OOFD) in 2016, she biked the furthest she’d ever gone, got some gnarly road rash, and found a wonderful community. She’s been hooked ever since! As a volunteer guide with OOFD, you’ll find Kat hyping up Casey’s General Store or wherever the next meal is.Don’t Miss Out!
Whether you’re eager to dive into your first bikepacking adventure or looking to enhance existing skills, this webinar is for you. Join us for an evening of inspiration, education, and community. Secure your spot now, and let the adventure begin!
