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Reply to New to rail trails
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Newt on 5/30/2025 3:47:01 PM:
Do I need pedals for this trail?

 
Gary from Near Tebbetts on 5/30/2025 4:52:36 PM:
They sure make it a lot easier.

 
Eric from KCMO on 5/31/2025 2:48:45 PM:
In the words of Gary Coleman, sitcom actor on the show Diff’rent Strokes, “what you talking about Willis?”
The Katy is mostly flat, although there is a long, gradual hill leaving Boonville if you’re traveling westbound. Trail surface is crushed rock and very firm when dry. It’s as close as you can get to paved without being paved. Might be slightly mushy when wet, but not going to slow you down too much. Skinny road bike tires are often mentioned as being rougher on the comfort level as they don’t absorb bumps, they transfer them to your butt. Ride whatever you like. Plenty of YouTube videos both new and old about the Katy. Look for the ones with the most views. I suggest videos by the eccentric Paul Sucheki, bicycle traveling company Noble Invention, even Mat Ryder for a salty Brit perspective.

 
Jim from St. Thomas on 5/31/2025 9:26:53 PM:
Unless you're on a non pedal assist e-bike you will need pedals.

 
Jim from St. Thomas on 5/31/2025 9:28:56 PM:
The one exception I can think of would be coming down Lard Hill eastbound into Booneville.

 
Bill in Columbia (was Houston) on 6/1/2025 8:26:44 AM:
Yes.