ANY ROAD - ANY DISTANCE - ANY WEATHER


How will I preregister for an event?

You should download and print the  insurance waiver and registration form and fill it out.  You will need to mail it to the RBA. The address is:

Miles Stoneman
P.O. Box 1146
Marion, IL 62959

What are the time limits on a brevet or permanent?

Each event has two time limits. The first is the fastest time in which an event can be completed. The second is the maximum time in which an event must be finished.  These times translate to approximately 20.5 mph for the fastest time and just under 10 mph for the slowest. The maximum times range from 13.5 hours for a 125 mile/200 kilometer event to 40 hours for a 375 mile/600 kilometer event.  Our routes are as close to the minimum distance as is realistic. Events can not be shorter than the official distance, and we try to keep those bonus miles as low as possible.

These times are OVERALL times.  Bike repairs and resting are done while the clock is ticking.  If you can't replace a tube in less than 5 minutes, practice until you can.  You'll also need to practice eating and drinking on the bike, as there won't be much time at the control stops for more than getting your supplies, having your brevet card stamped, and possibly a bathroom call.



Do I need to be a Little Egypt Randonneurs or RUSA member to ride?

You must be a Little Egypt Randonneurs member to ride our brevets.  You do NOT need to be an RUSA member to ride a brevet.  You will need to be a RUSA member to receive RUSA distance awards.

 A Super Randonneur series consists of four brevets:
  • 200 Kilometer (125 Miles) with a time limit of 13.5 hours

  • 300 Kilometer (185 Miles) with a time limit of 20.0 hours

  • 400 Kilometer (250 Miles) with a time limit of 27.0 hours

  • 600 Kilometer (375 Miles) with a time limit of 40.0 hours

Only Super Randonneurs are allowed to attempt the ultimate Randonneuring challenge, the 1200 kilometer (750 mile) randonnee which must be completed in 90 hours. 

We post results on our website.  RUSA members may also see their results on the RUSA website.

Do you charge for brevets and permanents?

No.  Your Little Egypt Randonneurs membership covers our expenses for the event such as the cost of gas, printing of maps, cue-sheets, brevet cards, and mailings. Your membership also covers the cost of the liability insurance required by RUSA.

Is there cell phone coverage on the routes?

Mostly. Our routes are not on main highways. Rather we travel the low traffic roads of Southern Illinois. Cell phone coverage can be spotty depending on your cell phone provider. Make sure you have a fully charged cell phone before the start should you need assistance.

How much climbing is there?

All of our climbs are short. No leg busters. And it is not uncommon to have strong winds from one or more directions during a ride. You may face a headwind on the way out, and/or on the way back. The map has an elevation feature built in, check it for the amount of climbing for each ride.


Is there any night riding?

Yes we have night riding.  Front and rear lights must be attached to your bicycle and be in working order before you can start most rides. Depending on which distance you are riding, you may begin before sunrise and lights (front and rear) along with reflective gear (ankle bands and reflective sash/belt) are required. Also longer events such as the 300K, 400K and 600K events can finish well after dark and again, lights and reflective gear are required.

If the start time and/or the distance will cause you to ride in the dark, you will not be allowed to start the ride if you do not meet the requirements for lighting and reflective gear. Lights and reflective gear are required to be worn/turned on anytime lighting or weather conditions deem. Failure to have lights turned on and reflective gear on after dark, or when weather deems it necessary is grounds for disqualification. Please refer to the Rules For Riders for complete rules.

Do you offer SAG on your rides?

Rarely. Most of the time, the RBA is riding the event with you.  Brevets are long distance self-supported events.  You need to be able to handle flat tires and any mechanical emergencies you encounter along the route. If you abandon an event, you may need to find your own way back to your vehicle. The Rules For Riders do not allow a personal support vehicle along the route. You can, however, have someone meet you at, and only at, official checkpoints. Any planned personal support outside of official checkpoints is against the rules and riders will be disqualified.  Found support is allowed (i.e. purchasing what you need along the way).

What can I expect on a brevet?  What are the rules that I need to follow?

All rules listed on RUSA's website, Rules For Riders need to be followed along with state laws for bicycles. In Illinois, bicyles can ride two abreast as long as you are not interferring with the normal flow of traffic. 

What do I do with my brevet card?

At the beginning of the ride you will be provided a brevet card. Make sure you put your name and address on the brevet card so it can be returned to you at the end of the season with your certified sticker attached. A brevet card is your ride passport. At each checkpoint along the route you will have your brevet card signed or stamped and have the date/time of passage logged. After the final checkpoint you will sign the brevet card and return it to the RBA. 


What do I do in an emergency, or if I can't finish an event?

In case of a medical emergency, dial 911 immediately, then call the RBA's phone number on  your brevet card or route sheet to let him know.

If you feel too pooped to pedal, take a break, eat, drink and rest. You'll be surprised at how quickly your ability to continue will return.   When you get back to the start/finish, drop your brevet card off at the finish location and call the RBA's cell number listed on the card and cue sheet to let him know.


(adapted from the St. Louis Randonneuring website)