Our new Cyclocross.com website is under development and coming soon. The site will offer the best cyclocross components and equipment, and provide lots of equipment and technique articles to help you do your best in this exciting sport.

Cyclocross is one of the fastest growing segments of cycling - a unique style of racing which originated in central Europe. While it's exact origins are unclear, cyclocross evolved as a way for road cyclists to maintain fitness in the off-season while also getting a break from logging long miles on the road. Cyclocross courses feature pavement, grass, dirt, sand and usually plenty of mud. 'Cross also tests endurance, bike handling and general fitness, as courses usually require riders to dismount and carry their bikes.

Races

Cyclocross races consist of several laps of a relatively short circuit, high level races typically last about 90 minutes. Courses generally have paved and off-road sections, additional obstacles often include natural and man-made barriers that require riders to dismount and carry their bikes, run-ups, sand pits and anything else a race promoter might throw in to add to the excitement. Pro level European races usually consist of mostly grass and pavement with a few stiff climbs and barriers. Amateur 'cross races in the US often have courses similar to cross-country MTB. The most universal aspect of 'cross racing is mud. The October-January cyclocross season typically brings out the worst weather, and the worst weather brings out the best in Cyclocross racers.

Cyclocross is a great way to introduce newcomers to bike racing. Races often have a festival like atmosphere. There is no getting dropped and riding to the finish alone in cyclocross, courses are usually surrounded by spectators and fellow racers. Like MTB racing, cyclocross courses throw the same challenges at the first place rider as the last, providing a skills and fitness workout for all involved.

Bikes

'Cross bikes are essentially modified touring frames, featuring more relaxed geometry and clearance for wide tires and cantilever brakes. While the usual range of full carbon race machines are available, cyclocross racers often toe their first start line on MTB or road bikes.

In general, cyclocross bikes use standard 700c road wheels which are shod with slightly knobby tires that run between 28 and 35mm wide. Tubular tires are especially popular with cyclocross racers, as they can be run at very low pressures, which improve grip in muddy conditions. Road components are usually used, with the exception of brakes, which are typically cantilever. Standard road brakes do not provide clearance for wide tires and mud.

As with all cycling disciplines, the UCI (pro cycling's governing body) sets regulations on bikes which ultimately trickle down and determine the types of bikes available in shops. While these regulations only apply to the tiny percentage of cyclists that race in pro level races, bike manufacturers want their customers to buy the new top of the line pro level race bike, and year after year amateur racers and recreational riders keep buying them.

Some of the UCI rules that effect cyclocross bikes are:

Handlebars must be no wider than 50cm. (Effectively outlaws MTB handlebars).
Tires no wider than 35mm. (Outlaws MTB tires.)
Disc brakes are not allowed.
Bikes must weigh at least 6.8kg.

Most recreational events allow riders to race whatever bike they bring. MTB bikes are very common in these events (heck, our local series here in Portland has a unicycle category). Many racers have started racing cross on a road bike, sporting the widest tires that will fit. This freewheeling, race anything spirit is a big part of the excitement around cyclocross.

MTB pedals and shoes are always used on cyclocross bikes. Racers are often required to dismount and run with their bikes several times a lap. Racing 'cross on road shoes would not be easy (though it would be fun for your friends to watch).