z tour

May 22, 2020

Announcement

Riders, supporters, and community members; The Z Tour will be postponed this year. After much deliberation the Z Tour steering committee has determined that postponing this year’s edition of the Z Tour is the safest course of action for all concerned. This was a very difficult decision and we will miss hosting our great rider friends, but health and safety are paramount. The ride will be back on the third weekend of July 2021 to celebrate its 10th anniversary. Plans are already in the works. Again, this year’s Z Tour will be postponed until 2021.

In the meantime, we would like to invite riders to enjoy our wonderful Bureau County on an individual basis as each feels comfortable. Bureau County offers some of the most scenic and finest riding conditions in the midwest for any and all riders who would like to get out there and enjoy our beautiful riding here in the Princeton Illinois area. All riders are welcome to freely enjoy our friendly community as they feel safely able and guidelines allow. Watch our website and Facebook posts for suggested routes!

Here at Z tour, we are committed to two consistent goals: supporting the Zearing Child Enrichment Center and providing a ride of the highest quality and safety to you, our loyal cyclists.

So, as promised to our pre-registered participants, if you wish a full refund, we will send it, no questions asked. These are trying times and no one needs an extra hassle. If you would like to donate some, or all, of your registration fee, just let us know and we will make that happen with great appreciation.  Or, you might want to participate in our Super Early Bird Sign Up and use your entry toward next year’s special edition ride.  Again, just let us know and you’re in for 2021. Your satisfaction with the Z Tour experience is our highest priority. You can contact us with your decision at widmerl.zcec@gmail.com at your earliest convenience.

In the meantime we want you to stay connected with Z Tour and the greater cycling community. We will be posting information concerning our exciting plans for 2021, our fantastic “cycle supportive” community, and helpful hints and links all for your cycling enjoyment. Follow the developments at our web site and on Facebook. Whether you are a repeat rider or first time guest you are now one of the Z Tour community.

March 25, 2020

End of March Tune-Up Time

It may not seem like it but the riding season is just around the corner. Late March will offer some early riding opportunities and you will want your bike to be ready! While it might not be possible to get your bike to a shop just now, here are some key points to consider for getting your riding season off to a great start:

Is the drive train in good order? Is the chain clean and well lubed and are the gears and sprockets in good working order?

Are the tires useable and safe: Check the tread for worn and thin spots.  Look at the sidewalls for cracks, sun damage, or dry rot. If any problems are seen, replace the tires and tubes.

Check the brakes. Do both front and back brakes work? Do both pads on the front and back grab the rim of the tire? Do they squeak when stopping?

And finally, inspect the cables for shifting and braking. Are there any frayed ends on any cables? This might require a shop visit or a shout out to a biking buddy. But do check them… brakes are a good thing to have, at times.

With a few simple tools and access to YouTube, you can order the parts online and do much of the routine maintenance at home yourself.

Don’t miss these first opportunities to get out and get rolling! It’ll be great for your psyche and your immune system! Get rolling and get registered for the Z Tour!

We are hoping to see you in Princeton on the third weekend in July for the annual Z Tour weekend! I’m Bill Schnabel, director of this year’s Z Tour, and I approve this message.

February 16, 2020

Registration for 2020 begins today!

The 10th Annual Z Tour Bike Ride is a charity road ride, supporting the Zearing Child Enrichment Center in Princeton, which provides riders a chance to enjoy some of the finest bike riding roads that North-Central Illinois has to offer. The five well marked and supported routes featured incorporate hills, rolling terrain, and beautiful views of Bureau Creek and the Hennepin Canal all with minimal traffic. 

Get more information for this great ride held in Princeton, Illinois online at ztour.org. Early check-in is offered on Friday night’s “Down on Main Street” live concert Friday evening featuring the band Tons-O-Fun. Enjoy live music, food vendors and drinks as you check in for the ride. Merchandise pick-up and sales are also available during these times.

Back by popular demand is the Group Registration Option- Me + 3 = 

  • 1 Leader should create a catchy group name
  • Each individual should register under that catchy name
  • At least 4 riders in a group
  • Receive (1) $25.00 in Chamber Bucks to spend at Princeton businesses OR $25.00 on select Z Tour Merchandise! 

Register your group today and join the Z Tour and city of Princeton for all the fun starting Friday evening at 5:00 pm. 

  • Easy and really fast check-in opening at 5:45 am.
  • Detailed maps and cue for our five road routes
  • Five themed rest stops supplied with nutritional food, beverages, and music. 10-mile with an optional hill challenge, 30-mile, 55-mile, 75 mile, and 100 mile. 
  • Camping options at the Bureau County Fairgrouns (nominal fee).
  • Radio-dispatched SAG and support by the Bureau Countu EMA until 3:00 pm
  • Light breakfast offered from 6:00-9:00 am at Zearing Park
  • Post-ride meal served from 10:30-4:00 pm at Zearing Park
  • All 55, 75, and 100 Mile riders MUST start between 6:00-8:00 AM. Helmets required!
  • 30 Mile riders MUST leave between 6:00-9:00 AM. Helmets required!
  • 10 Mile riders MUST leave between 9:00-9:30 AM. Helmets required!
  • All routes begin and end at Princeton’s beautiful Zearing Park.
  • Once online registration closes, our fee is $45.00- You will be able to register Friday night at the Down On Main Street Concert from 5:00-8:00 PM in the Prouty Building on Main Street OR on Saturday morning beginning at 5:45 AM at Zearing Park. 

Download the Ride with GPS app. Some routes subject to change closer to the ride date. 

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