What Is Cyclocross? How Long Does A Cross Race Last?
An hour of pain on a bicycle
What is cyclocross? Cyclo-cross is a form of cycling sport. Cyclocross (or ‘Cross or CX) events take place usually during the autumn and winter months. And consist of multiple laps of a course of approximately 2-4 kilometers in length which features grass, woodland trails and singletrack, steep hills and obstacles requiring the rider to quickly dismount and remount in one motion while carrying the bike. Courses also feature lots of corners and technical sections to test every rider in the field.
Cyclo cross in action
How long does a cyclo cross race last?
Generally a cx race lasts around 50 minutes however elite races can last longer. Beginners races are becoming more common and these can last around 30-40 minutes and are a great introduction to the sport.
Do I need a special bike for a cyclocross race?
You can ride a cyclocross race on a mountain bike, however for more serious competition a cyclo cross bike is a better choice, A ‘cross bike is very similar to a road bike but with features like wider knobbled tires and greater clearances that help it to deal with muddy conditions which would otherwise clog the frame with mud. Cyclo cross bikes are also significantly lighter than an mtb which makes the bicycle much easier to carry over obstacles.
Cyclocross in action
Can cyclo cross help your bike riding skils and fitness?
Cyclocross is a great way to improve skills for a cyclist, especially during the winter period as it can help maintain cardiovascular fitness and muscular strength. The technical nature of ‘cross means that it improves a cyclist’s cornering skills, descending and general bike handling as cx helps you to handle your bike in all conditions.
Cyclocross techniques and tactics
Cyclo cross is a cycling event like no other. It is recommended to watch a race in action prior to competing to get an idea of what a race is like and to give you an idea of the techniques such as dismounting and re-mounting your bike after carrying it over obstacles like barriers. Mastering these takes time!
Sometimes you just have to get off and run in a cross race
Darling, I need another cyclo cross bike!
Serious cyclocross racers often have two or more bikes. One for riding and one in the pit area (think formula one style pit lanes). They usually have a mechanic who is responsible for preparing the bike for the rider to swap.
Further Cycling and Cyclocross articles
- Planet X Bikes - Uncle John Cyclocross Frameset Review
A review of the Uncle John cyclocross frameset. How does it ride and could you use it as a winter or commuter bicycle? Cyclo Cross is gaining in popularity and a value for money cycle cross bike giving high performance is great for opening up the bik - Training for Better Cycling: Hill Climbing without Tiring
- Best Budget Road Racing Bikes Review
Buying a new road racing bikes for 2011. Check out this review of the best road racer bicycles available. All have top specifications and come complete with tried and tested components. All are available in different sizes to match your needs and can
