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The C&O Canal Towpath Trail and Great Allegheny Passage
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Trail surface and tire choice
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PG on 10/21/2015 2:01:29 PM:
1. Is it correct that the route is not paved asphalt the entire 300+ miles?

2. If so, how much is paved/not paved?

3. Do you think it's ok for a road bike?

4. If so, should I use 28s instead of 23s or 25s?
 
Willy Prost from Arlijngton VA on 10/21/2015 3:55:58 PM:
1. Correct. from DC to Pittsburgh I would estimate that less than 20% is paved asphalt.

2.The C&O Towpath form DC to Cumberland is a "Tow path" designed for oxen to pull canal boats. Think single lane gravel/dirt road. There is a 20 mile section around Hancock that you can take the adjoining Western Maryland Rail trail. That part is asphalt paved.

The GAP is crushed limestone. Much easier than the towpath. Be happy that the incline is 2% or less.

3. I used a 20 year old hybrid with 700x 38 tires.
I saw a number of other through bikers that were using road bikes.
4. My preference would be 28s. Especially if the C&O had just been rained on in the previous 48 hours. The towpath just doesn't drain as well as the crushed limestone of the GAP trail.
 
Ryan Drummond from Philadelphia, PA on 10/21/2015 8:17:19 PM:
I didn't see many road bikes on my ride, if any. All mountain bikes, hybrids, or "touring" bikes, e.g. Surly Long Haul Truckers or the like. IMO, wider tires are better for this trip, and a really stiff road bike frame won't be pleasant esp. on the C&O. I personally rode a Trek hybrid with 35's. No flats, but some broken spokes. Have a good ride!
 
lenny on 10/22/2015 4:33:24 AM:
The 20 mile paved trail east and west of Hancock is the Western Ma. Rail Trail. Which is to eventually continue to Little Orleans then on to Cumberland.
 
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