pgs

We are looking for new bikes to ride primarily crushed stone trails (like the Katy Trail in Missouri). What kind should we get? Cyclocross, Touring, or Hybrid? Can anyone suggest some good brands and the right type of bike?

twahl

I'd go hybrid or comfort. My wife and I have Specialized Expedition Sports, and I'd consider them to be perfect for crushed stone. We recently did a metric century on them, so they can be used for longish road rides too.

wildjim

I've ridden the NCR Trail here in Maryland on several bicycles. It's stone is fine and packed hard enough to ride a Road Bike with Tubular Tires(120 lbs air); although I felt a slight constant vibration. The Hard Tail MTB Bicycle (Giant XTC) felt smoother and fitted to this type of trail. I've used Slick Tires(60 lbs air) and Nobbed Tires(50 lbs air) on the MTB and they both feel smooth enough on the crushed stone surface. I am also considering a Cyclocross Bicycle just for this purpose. I prefer a quick steering racing type bicycle.

As for brands Giant Bicycles offer great value for the price as they are one of largest bicycle manufacturers in the world. I own two Giant Bicycles and they are my favorites. They are smooth, quiet and flawless in workmanship and operation. I also own a Cannondale and a Bianchi which function perfectly as well.