Clear, cool and sunny start with essentially no wind during the ride. Good group with Wally, Steve M, Rob, Shaun & Melissa, Greg H, Tom B, Colin, Carrie and Jeff L. Took usual route from KHMS to Oswego, Yorkville and Plano but added a SE leg that traveled almost to Plainfield. Everyone stayed together at a solid ride pace until the last few miles (where Jeff took off on Granart and pulled a few others with him). Roads I had not ridden before included Collins, Douglas, Plainfield and Cherry. All in good shape with minimal traffic (except for Plainfield). Would consider these again, especially by extending the first two further east for future rides battling a SE wind. Only route obstacle was with Fox Road west of Yorkville, where the intersection with Highpoint was compacted gravel due to major road construction. Tom flatted, so all but 4 stayed to assist with the repair then walked/rode through the gravel to the pavement about ¼ mile. The others double backed to Yorkville, adding ~1 mile to the route. Usual gas station stops were well received, especially the last one as the day warmed up to the mid-80s. Finished in under 4 hours ride time. Tom, Greg, Rob and I rehydrated at Open Range.