Between gas prices and time crunches on Friday, I've decided that the best way to get my long ride for the week in is to ride to a business apt in Shelbyville. Yes, he knows I will show up hot and sweaty in spandex! I was hoping someone could help me with a fairly direct route other than straight down Church Street--while it does have that huge shoulder, surely there is another way? I thought of parking South of town, then picking up my van on the way back to make it around35--40 miles.Thanks...

I lived in Shelbyville last year. I know a route thats all backroads until you reach Shelbyville. It goes from Murfreesboro, Rockvale, Eagleville, Longview, then to Shelbyville. I can send you a sheet if you want.

Don't know where you are going in Shelbyville so can't help you with the city streets there but I have gone there on my bike several times from home.

Two ways that are fairly direct.
Either way you can park at Christiana Element Sch

1. Head South on 231 and take a right on Hwy 269 (Walnut Grove here). Go Left on Midland Road and head straight into Shelbyville. Left at the last road takes you the light for the new Walmart on 231.

2. Head South a little more and turn left on Hwy 269. Continue through Bell Buckle and head out toward Wartrace. Turn Right on Fairfield Pike which goes more into the east side of town.

Both will be busier the closer you get to town but are better than 231. The first route is flatter. The second route has some hills. If I was doing this, I would consider coming in via route 1 and coming out route 2.

Invest in a new copy of the Tennessee Atlas and Gazetter. It has wonderful topo maps of all the back roads in TN. It is the map most of us use for club rides. I got mine at Sam's for about $11. Cover price is around $20. Most big convenince stores and Walmart have them too.

Good luck and have a great ride!
Cindy

Thank you both! I have a game plan and helmt, now for my water bottles!

I did it! And very proud of myself too. Thanks all for the encouragment.