Anonymous on 6/26/2012 7:06:11 AM:
My 3 day trip I rode an 87 Schwinn garage sale find that I redid with new wheels and paint, etc.. Set it up as a single speed with 28mm hard case tires. Worked like a charm. Loved the simplicity of it. No flats, no mechanicals, etc. Carried minimal stuff and stayed at B&Bs along the way.
Buddy rode his road bike with 25mm Gatorskin tires with no problems either.
The one day guys who were racing were all riding either road or cross bikes with 25-28mm "flat protection" tires with pretty smooth tread.
The trail was hard packed and in good shape the whole way and I didn't find any need for "traction".
Just responding to the question...not advocating any one way of riding the KATY.
That's just what worked for me and I fully recognize that others have other ways they like to ride the KATY. Whatever works for you.