It's almost time for that annual summer phenomenon when Lake Shore Drive closes to automobile traffic and thousands of bicyclists take a beautiful morning ride the Sunday before Memorial Day. The Chicagoland Bicycle Federation and Mayor Richard M. Daley remind everyone that Lake Shore Drive will be temporarily closed on Sunday, May 27 for Chicago's biggest bicycle ride, the Bank of America Bike the Drive.

Lake Shore Drive is closed that morning to automobiles, 5:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., between Hollywood Avenue and 59th Street. Those seeking access to the lakefront are encouraged to use CTA, walk or bicycle. Automobiles can access the Museum Campus via 18th Street and Navy Pier via Illinois Street.

Bank of America Bike the Drive participants are encouraged to bicycle or take their bikes on CTA to get to the event. For additional information on directions, taking CTA or parking garages for the event, visit bikethedrive.org.

Registration for the event is still open and includes four hours of car-free bicycling, an event T-shirt, access to three rest stops and a fun festival after the ride. The ride begins at 5:30 a.m. from Colombus and Balbo. Participants may not start after 9 a.m. Click here to view a route map.

The post-ride festival is from 8 a.m. to noon and offers music, a pancake breakfast ($5 extra when you register), special activities for kids and families, bicycle celebrations, sponsor booths and much more.

For more information about the event and to register, visit bikethedrive.org or call the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation at (312) 427-3325, ext. 251.