Chicago Region BMW Motorcycle Owners Assoccrbmw

Hi folks,

In your experience, what is a good way out of Chicago heading towards Michigan that doesn't involve the major expressways/tollways?

Thanks,
John
West Town

At the risk of being a smart alek how about this ferry?
http://www.lake-express.com/schedule/index.aspx

I've never taken it, but have only heard good things about it.

As for the alternative route that will save you tons of time. I'm pretty sure it doesn't exist. From my experience the route or even the time of day isn't important; it's all about luck. Some trips I've made great time and others became the traffic story from hell. Nothing seems to work best.

Wish you good luck, Larry

Thanks for the tip, Larry. The ferry looks interesting if I'm ever headed for northern MI.

John

Head south out of Chicago and pick up Lincoln Hwy (US30). Go east on 30 past the congestion in Schererville, Merrilville, and so forth. Go as far as, say, Valparaiso and pick up Route 2 (I think) northbound to US 6 or US 12. Check this all out on a map first, of course, 'cause I'm basically doing this from memory....

Happy trails!
Tim Colburn
Park Forest, IL

Regarding the Ferry. I took the Badger from Manitowoc WI to Ludington MI. Manitowoc is about 80 miles N or Milwaukee. The trip is 4 hrs long and there is a discount of 15% or so for BMWOA members. Just your average ferry ride. When I took it we met up with a couple of retired brothers riding BMW's from RI. Lots of good stories made the ride fun. Otherwise it is just a long boat ride. They board bikes last on the boat. That means the good seats are taken and you get to sit at a park bench type of deal for the 4 hrs. If you have a passenger, have them get on board if possible with the general passengers so that maybe they can save a lawn chair type of seat which allows you to snooze or sit back instead of sitting at a park bench for the 4 hrs. Be aware if you get sea sick. When we crossed, the winds had been coming almost straight from the north. This provided a noticeable sideways rocking of the boat. There were several people that were heaving their guts out due to the "mal de mer".

Regarding getting out of Chicago on smaller roads. The best way out of Chicago is to go E on I 90. You can go on some smaller roads but the best thing to do is just hit the slab until you can get onto smaller roads. I believe that you can exit at (17) and follow the signs to 12,20. Once you hit 12,20 the road is nice and minimal traffic with beautiful marshes and woody areas. Follow 12 all the way into Mich passing many nice small resort style towns and overall a nice ride.