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Comments from recumbent rides on the Katy Trail?
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Paul from Lincoln, NE on 4/30/2007 3:43:40 PM:
In addition to my "upright" bike, I have a recumbent tricycle (tadpole configuration). I love the latter for the comfort, ease on muscles, and added miles I find I can put in as a result. (I find I take in more of the scenery, too.) However, I wonder if the small rims/tire would be problematic on a limestone trail. Another other 'bent rider take their wheels on the Katy? I'd welcome comments, suggestion and cautionary tales. Also, would you recommend "fatter" or skinnier" tires to best accomodate the vagaries of the trail?
Thanks!
 
Trek Biker from St. Joseph, MO on 5/1/2007 9:03:55 AM:
There were two Catrike riders at the trailhead in Pilot Grove Sunday afternoon when we passed through. They appeared to have a tire issue.....were arguing over who's fault it was....not sure what the problem was, but choose to avoid the issue....didn't want to be the one responsible for their tire debacle. lol
 
brad from st louis on 5/1/2007 9:58:46 AM:
I've ridden the trail on both uprights and a recumbent. The recumbent is a two-wheeled, short wheel based model (Bacchetta Giro 20). It has 1.5" semi-smooth tires, 20" in front and 26" in back.

No problems. The trail is mostly hard-packed, sometimes a little soft on the edges after a storm. You do have to watch the trail for branches, snakes and washouts.

I can't imagine any problems caused by riding a recumbent trike. In fact, the lower position of a trike would probably make it easier to pass through the gates at mark road crossings.

I would recommend tire liners or kevlar belts. There seems to be enough stuff on the trail to cause occasional punctures. I would stick with tires at least 1-1/8" wide. No need to go extremely wide or knobby. Wider probably gives you a little more cushioning.
 
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