Ok, biking enthusiasts. It's time to turn off the TV coverage of the Tour de France and get out to see a real live race in Chicago. This Sunday marks the second installment of the Chicago Criterium, a free all-day event in Grant Park. Described as "NASCAR on bikes," the criterium races will take place on a 1.1-mile closed-circuit loop (start/finish line is at Buckingham Fountain) featuring tight 90-degree turns and fast-paced straight-aways. Who needs the Alps, anyway?

Check out the website for more details; racing begins at 7 a.m. on Sunday.