Cool, damp but clear start evolved into lower humidity, bright and clear route to Marengo. Moisture evaporated from the pavement by the time we reached Hampshire. Big/fast group with Wally, Rob, Tim, Chris, Carrie, Erin, Gina & Natalie, Bruce, Jeff L (with guests Ken and Brian P), Michelle C, Julia S & Kim A. Angie joined us at the first rest stop but Brian's DI2 battery died on the hill up to Ketchum Road and returned to the start. Persistent NW winds increased by the time we made the run into Marengo. Quick lunch at Subway was followed by an indirect route back to Hampshire/Burlington and then home. True accordion pace as several groups split apart but came back together at stops and turns. Ken and I helped Julia on the return leg as she could not keep the pace. Best road portions were Brier Hill, Seeman, E Coral Road, Olson (near Illinois Railway Museum) and Maple Street (where the group flew down together at a very fast pace). Was especially great to see many new folks conversing with others they had never met. Good average for me for the distance, and we probably could have completed a century if time allowed. Great to see new Club members join these rides!