A number of posters have indicated interest in a Katy Trail get together ride. I propose starting in St Charles, riding west until you are 1/2 way tired, and riding back so each rider can pick their own distance. St Charles to the Defiance biker bar and back is about 35 miles. St Charles to Augusta and back is about 50 miles. The Katy Trail is crushed limestone so, unless it rains, your bike is going to get dusty. On the other hand, it's hard packed enough that road bike tires work fine for this section of the trail. During the summer weekends this section of the trail is heavily traveled so you will also encounter kids and dog walkers. For reference, I normally ride in the 12 to 15 MPH range.

East from St Charles the trail doesn't go very far but there's a network of paved roads between the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. All are table top flat and traffic isn't too bad. New town has a store and some outdoor vendors and seating area so I could put together a short Sunday morning ride.

St Charles has a number of attractions other than bicycling and it has a bunch of restaurants. I think this would be a good place for a social get-together.

As I write this my July weekends are all available. Who thinks they want to come and which July Saturday is best for you?