First day of riding-Chicago to Springfield, Illinois

The first day of riding was beautiful, big blue sky, warm and no wind.  After a big good luck farewell and a I wish I was going with you, Chicago's finest bicycle police officers sent us on our way at 10:30 am.  What a great guy.  He was so interested in our trip that he asked if he could have his picture taken with his camera.  Many laughs at the start.
The drive through the neighborhoods of western Chicago was exciting for me as it brought back many childhood memories of visiting my Grandparents.  The street names were so familiar.  Ohio Street, Ogden Avenue and all the way out to Harlem Ave.  As you can imagine the neighborhoods have changed since the 60's.
Out of Chicago and on the way to Joliet, Il. Every where you look there is a tribute to the Blues Brothers.  Pontiac, Il. is very proud of their Route 66 museum and the brand new Pontiac car exhibit.  Mayor Bob of Pontiac gave us a personal tour of the car exhibit.  He had so much pride in his home town. Both were fun to go through.
It seems like we were on and off the bikes every few miles.  By now the Illinois sun was hot.  Great riding day!
One last stop in Atlanta, Illinois to take pix with the Paul Bunyon statue. So much to see in Illinois. I have a new appreciation for my home state.
And then on to Springfield, Il., our goal for the first night was reached. My friend Jon Kauffman hosted us at the Drury Inn.

A fun send off from the Chicago Police. What a great guy.

Check all systems and equipment. Ready to roll!  What the hell have I got myself into? Let the Iron Horse go.

First stop Joliet and of course Ice Cream at one of the original Route 66 ice cream stands.

The Joliet Museum and the Blues Brothers have done wonders to boost the tourism trade.

The first of many "GIANT"s along Route 66. Can you remember your Dad stopping the car and letting you get out and stand by these giants?

Small towns in Illinois have done a great job in bringing back memories of the old Route 66 road. We are starting to see people from all over the world.  Europeans seem to love the Mother Road.

Some of the original Route 66 Highway still exists.  A slower ride indeed.

I'm sure Buz and Tod, from the Route 66 TV show of the 1960"s must be out here somewhere in their Corvette.

Another Illinois "GIANT" In the middle of the day in the middle of the week we had to line up and wait for our picture time.

Harley Road King is running great. I need to buy a water bottle with a sippy top like my grandkids have.