First timer

So I will start by saying I am not a bike rider, though I am in my mid 20s and in pretty decent shape.

I am considering doing the C&O in early August, but don't know very much about bikes. I was wondering if anyone could give me any direction on where to start looking. Things Im looking for are what kind of bike one would need to complete this and base starting point (I'll have just finished taking the BAR and will be oh so poor). Thanks for any advice.

I would suggest a hybrid type of bike or a mountain bike. I would not recommend a road bike. I would consider how much and what type of biking you think you may do in the future. This should help you decide on what type of bike to get and how much you may want to spend. Personally, (if money is an issue), I would get a lower end name brand bike before I would buy a big box store bike. Other things to consider: helmet, gloves, biking shorts, some type of bike rack and bike bag/panniers, water bottle cages, bike computer, bike light, etc. You do not neccessarily need all of these things but all are useful. Let me say this, despite all of the cute Facebook postings and other things about growing up and surviving, you need to purchase a good helmet. Nobody plans on crashing, that is why it is called an accident. I have buddies who have wiped out on smoother trails than the C&O and have cracked their helmets. If you choose not to buy a helmet please fill out an organ donor card and carry it with you.....O.K., that is a little harsh but seriously, invest in a quality helmet.

If you have other questions about the trail or what you may need, just ask away. Good luck on your ride!

As for a bicycle, you don't need to own one. While I don't know what it would cost, you could rent one from some of the bicycle shops you find listed on this web site.
In fact, you don't really need a bicycle at all, you could hike the trail like I did back in 2011. It's flat easy walking, you'd be surprised how many miles you can do in a day.

Try this. this is the time of rear that new bikes are purchased, and with that bikes are traded in. In my area, near a college town they are resold to people like you for alot less than new. these are usually very servicable machines.

Hello First Timer,
Since you don't regularly ride a bike your best options are to rent a bike or just hike the C&O Canal Trail. There is a descent bike shop in Hancock, Maryland that rents bikes. You may even be able to rent a bike in your locality. Check your local bike shop.
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You MUST know how to repair a flat tire (front and back) before starting your journey. I've seen several people with flats on the trail due to its rough stony surface. With luck the place you rent your bike from may outfit their bikes with Kenda Kevlar tires which do a beautiful job of deterring flats.
Take a couple spare inner tubes and a pump with you as a precaution.
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Perhaps you should just ride the trail in sections first to get a "feel" for the trail before heading out to cover the whole trail.
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Also, consider the hiking option. I've seen a few hikers/backpackers on the trail.
Best of luck in your journey!

You can get a Raleigh Mountain Bike as a starter. They are great bikes and are built to last. You can get a nice Raleigh for under $500.
Don't get anything too cheap because you may end up really enjoying your cycling experience and make it your Hobby. (Some lower end bikes are unsafe and not designed for a long ride. You run the risk of the frame cracking, among other things.)
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As Derek mentioned you must know how to change a Flat Tire. There are also some esential gear you will need to take along as well.
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Best advice is, try riding the trail in sections first so you can get acclimated with the trail. Set up a couple day trips.
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Best of luck with your decision.

Definitely need a hybrid or mountain bike. You don't need top of the line but a cheap bike rides and performs like a cheap bike. Helmet, gloves, padded shorts, spare inner tube and patch kit plus the know-how to use them. I prefer Trek Bikes and use a Mamba with 29er tiers. Aug. can be hot and buggy if your planning to camp out. Have you considered the Allegheny Passage? It's closer to home and for a first time rider the route is smoother and has less obstacles (mud, ruts, etc.) If your planning on camping out you'll need a rear rack and panniers plus tent, sleeping bag, ground pad, stove and cooking gear although you could plan on eating your meals in the various towns. Do a web search for trail journals and you can get a good feel for what to expect

Thanks everyone. Im looking at getting a Specialized Sirrus Sport. Id rather purchase than rent, as I'd like to start biking some, for exercise and convenience. Also, I want to to the C&O in part because my family will be in DC that week, as will be the Mets. So I think I'm pretty set on buying and doing the whole trail. Appreciate the advice. I've already started doing some research on what it takes to do the trail. Ie. what gear and such is necessary. I'll spend the next couple months doing real research and decide specifically what ill need. Thanks again.

I understand, I'm a Pittsburg Pirates fan (hate the Steelers!) If you'd like feel free to give me a call 757 619-5522 I've biked both the Passage and C&O and can offer a lot of advice. too much to write.