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Reply to Type of bike required
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cc from Washington DC on 6/4/2023 3:57:40 PM:
I only have a mountain bike, and am considering doing the DC - Harper's Ferry ride with my pre teen son, who also has a mountain bike. Assuming we stayed in a lockhouse/motel 1-2 nights, is it realistic to do 30 miles/day with additional panniers on mountain bikes? We easily do 25 mile rides now on them, so it would be a little bit to work up to, but I'm thinking the mountain bikes could be useful on the trail. We would pack light and only be bringing minimal clothing/layers and snacks. Ideally we'd do it in the fall, but would be it be crazy to do this in late October/early November? Many thanks in advance

 
Willy from Alexandria VA on 6/5/2023 10:52:58 AM:
You and your kid will be fine.
Don't overthink it.
A mountain bike might be even preferable on the C&O if you are riding after a rain.
A lot of through riders are doing 60 miles a day, so 30 miles should be well within your skillset.

 
Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 6/5/2023 4:56:36 PM:
Willy’s response was spot on.