Katy Trail Home  The Katy Trail and Rock Island Trail Rock Island Trail Home
Katy Trail Home Clinton Windsor Calhoun Green Ridge Sedalia Clifton City Boonville New Franklin Rocheport McBaine Hartsburg N Jefferson Tebbetts Mokane Portland Bluffton Rhineland McKittrick Treloar Marthasville Matson Defiance Weldon Spring St Charles Machens Easley Pilot Grove Hermann Huntsdale Columbia Jefferson City Dutzow Washington Augusta KT sticker Rock Island Spur Map Katy Trail Katy Trail Merchandise
switch to Rock Island map

Mountain bike acceptable?
Go to Forum
James on 9/2/2013 9:07:34 PM:
I'm looking at going on a trip with a few friends and was wondering if my mountain bike would be fine for the trail? we are looking at riding around 30-50 miles a day. I know a hybrid would probably be more ideal but all I have is a mountain bike. Should I invest in a new bike?
 
ArkyKenny on 9/2/2013 9:37:43 PM:
Those knobbies get tiresome real fast on a hard surface. Think about buying a pair of slicks for your mountain bike.

There are a bunch of inexpensive 26 models ( eBay--there are some no name semi slicks from Chen Shin that are smooth in the middle with lugs on the side--they work great)

If you have a 29er, 700c hybrid tires work great on 29er rims-- I'd get 37's if you go that way. That is what I ride most of the time.

I say that because I think it's more fun if everyone in the group rides at the same speed. You don't all need high dollar bikes, but you need to be in similar shape with similar speed bikes: Waiting on someone (or trying to catch up) all day gets old real fast.
 
kevin from Jeff City on 9/3/2013 1:37:44 PM:
Ditto on ditching the knobbies. A good set of road tires with some puncture resistance will make it a more enjoyable experience.

That being said, you can ride with knobbies, but they will slow you down.

Also, consider a rack and panniers, or a trailer if you are hauling camping gear. A backpack over distances is a recipe for back pain.
 
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.