Curious about Time Trials?

I have to admit, when I started racing I didn’t think much of time trials. The local scene didn’t have TT races and the only time I saw an aero helmet was on a Strava segment chaser.  Six years later, I found myself in Chicago recovering from a broken ankle and looking for a “safe” way to get back into racing and train for the upcoming cyclocross season. A few of my xXx teammates were racing in the Mid-America Time Trial Series (MATTS) and suggested I give it a try. The thought of being solo without the uncertainty of racing in a group was appealing.  But what about the bike, the helmet, the aero gear? MATTS races have road bike, TT bike, and Paracyclist categories.  My trusty road bike would do nicely. I did invest in some aero socks for good measure.  It turns out, there is something to be said for just putting yourself out there. There is no draft to hide in, no positioning for a sprint finish, minimal terror in the corners. The battle is with yourself and the wind.  It’s about what you can hold, and for how long, against the clock, until the line. It is the ultimate cycling challenge. Yes, it is still a race, and medal opportunities abound in MATTS. But I would argue the victories really lie in the exuberant proclamation of a personal best and possibly a donut at the end. Not a roadie? Here is a great post on how racing TTs can improve Cyclocross performance.  Most TTs are on beautiful quiet roads outside the city where you can find fantastic gravel and road routes.  Bring your gravel or road bike and get two-rides for the drive.

This year, xXx-Racing Athletico is hosting the Kankakee Krono on June 1, 2025.  This race is also the ICA State Time Trial Championships. There are TT, Road Bike and Paracyclist divisions all of which feature a wide range of Masters Categories as well as USAC categories. One-day or Annual USAC license required.

Looking for more TT races? The 2025 MATTS schedule runs April-September, annual ABR membership is required.