I'm planning on riding some of our nation's "rail to trail" routes beginning next year. The majority of these seem to have crushed rock surfaces, the Katy Trail in Missouri being archetypical, though some are asphalt. Some are day rides, and many are treks of several days from start to end point. I anticipate carrying no more than rear panniers and a bar bag; essentially "credit card" touring plus. I'm trying to identify the best bicycle for this sort of activity, and I'm gravitating toward the Trek DS or the Giant Roam series. Any thoughts or suggestions, especially based on personal experience?
Rail to Trail Touring
- Thread starter cedube
- Start date
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Gravity Aided
Legendary Member
- Location
- Land of Lincoln
Having ridden the Katy in a few sections, a few trails in Wisconsin and Northern Illinois( Illinois-Michigan and Hennepin Canal Trails) as well as living along the Constitution Trail in Normal(asphalt, but 30+ miles),I'd say either would do, but wider tires are going to be useful. I would definitely discuss this with my LBS as they may have some useful insights as to what will work best.Crushed stone trails can be a surprise at times, what was a good trail 2 weeks before can be a bit sketchy after a few storms or some construction activity. I might also point out that Route 66 has a trail being built along its length in Illinois, I have only seen the progress in McLean County, where it is quite nice, but still not finished. also an asphalt trail here.
