road bikes on the trail?

Go to Forum

john dewitt from orlando fl on 9/30/2012 10:37:05 PM:

I saw in the website that it was a crushed limestone trail and am planning on being in st Charles in a few weeks. Is it road bike friendly because my 650 23s don't do well on unpaved surfaces

Doug from Bluffton on 10/1/2012 6:38:09 AM:

Although you MIGHT be able to get by, that is not a combination I would recommend. I have, and know others have, ridden 700x25 but there are too many soft/loose places especially on drop bars. The Katy is well worth bringing a different bike or renting one more suitable to trail conditions.

john dewitt from orlando fl on 10/1/2012 7:23:20 AM:

Thanks Doug I appreciate the advise. Nice to know before I pack a bike for the vaca.

Anonymous on 10/1/2012 1:52:42 PM:

My wife and I ride road bikes on the KATY and the only time we had a problem was in March when the trail thawed.

Kuhlieken from St Louis on 10/1/2012 2:32:48 PM:

Be careful of the area just East of Rhineland. Did a 65 mile ride three weeks back in that area, and had 5 flats between two bikes. Lots of small thorns that you will not see until in your tires. The area East of St Charles is the same way. Rode on standard 35's with no special tubes.

Billy from Mokane on 10/1/2012 5:18:44 PM:

I wouldn't do the trail on 23's on a bet. 28 or more. Always ride 32's myself. Those little bitty old tires can get you in trouble in more ways than one. But,, you may be just fine,depending upon weather and other factors.

Hank from New Haven, MO on 10/1/2012 5:30:51 PM:

Skinny tires might work in summer but with leaf fall, walnuts and other litter on the trail currently it would not be advisable. My opinion.

El Toro on 10/1/2012 6:14:32 PM:

Agree with the above comments. I personally ride 28s, but think 28-32 is just about perfect for the KATY. Even more important to me is FLAT PROTECTION. I DO NOT enjoy changing flats and kevlar belts/hardcase tires are well worth the money on the KATY in my opinion.

FEEDBACK! - Please let us know if you have suggestions, corrections, complaints, or ideas. Your input is valued and appreciated - thanks in advance!

More info: KT Home Katy Trail Map Trip Planner Travel Timeline Forum Towns & Services Mileage Chart Events Trail Merchandise Search Advertise Contact Us

By using this website, you agree to the Terms and Conditions.
how this website uses cookies
This information may not be copied or reproduced in any way.
© Copyright 2026 BikeKatyTrail. All rights reserved.
BikeKatyTrail and BikeKatyTrail.com are registered trademarks.