Trek Biker from St. Joseph, MO on 9/17/2006 10:52:09 PM:
I'd keep in mind that the distance from Mokane to McKittrick is twice to four times what you are used to riding about the 'ville. Rolling resistance is somewhat greater on the Katy than it is on the town streets. Unless you are visiting someone in either of those towns, I'd consider getting on the trail at Rocheport and riding towards McBaine and back. It's about nine miles from Rocheport to McBain. There are some neat things to see along there that may be of interest to the family......a tunnel to ride thru, an old amunitions bunker, a cave, petroglyphs, stately limestone bluffs, etc. A portion of this ride parallels, with close proximity to, the river also. Rocheport also has a nice bike shop with a family oriented resturant.
The advantage of "spandex" is the padding in the shorts....not the spandex itself. If as a general rule....your family rumps get along well with the bike seats, you'll be fine without spandex. My need for the padding within usually hits at around the 35 mile mark the first day. Enjoy the ride....from a fellow Bearcat '84 & '90.