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Trail surface
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Deborah from Branford on 6/23/2013 10:54:45 AM:
We are contemplating cycling the length of the GAP/C&O and are curious as to the trail surface. My companions ride hybrids I ride a road bike. Can someone comment on the type/quality of the trail surface, would it be suitable for a road bike or should I be looking to get a hybrid? I am assuming the surface mostly packed/small gravel but would like to be sure. Thank you.
 
JJB from Fairmont, WV on 6/23/2013 5:09:35 PM:
Deborah the GAP trail is beautiful in regards to trail surface. The C&O not so much. All of our flat tires have come on the C&O. GAP is packed crushed gravel but the C&O is pretty rough with rocks and even tree roots. It is also very muddy when it rains. Very muddy! Bottom line is I would not recommend a road bike on the C&O. Read previous posts on this site. It has been discussed a lot.
 
Matt from Altoona PA on 6/23/2013 7:46:45 PM:
Hey there,

I rode the GAP last year fall and it rained the entire first day, poured actually. Day 2 dry. I rode my single speed mountain bike with a pair of slicks. I did not have a single traction issue. The GAP drains very well, very few puddles to navigate. Planning a 3 day GAP & C and O, but been derailed twice, once by weather and then by a bad back. Good luck and make it happen,,,,
 
lenny on 6/24/2013 4:16:34 AM:
I wholly agree with JJB, he speaks truth. But, I have seen the adventurous type ride a road bike on the C&O. If you do, size up your tire to the largest tire you can install.
 
Joni's from Belmont,Oh on 6/26/2013 5:40:58 PM:
We finished the GAP/C&O almost two weeks ago when all the rain was in the area. The C&O was a nightmare! You would hit a "puddle" and would sink into a pond on occasions. It was extremely muddy and rutted. Would definitely do the GAP again and possibly the C&O, but it would HAVE to be In the dry season to do the C&O.
 
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