Cyclocross started as a sport in Europe in the early 1900s where the harsh winters did not allow people to cycle around. This was why they developed the sport where cyclists race around a challenging track which combines the disciplines of mountain biking, gravel biking and road cycling into an exciting format.
Today, cyclocross is enjoyed by riders all over the world and has even become an official discipline recognized by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI). So, if you’re looking for an intense racing experience, buying a cross bike and entering a few cyclocross races might just be the thing for you.
But- what is a cross bike?
A cross (or cyclocross) bike is one that is specifically designed for cyclocross racing. They generally look like road bikes, but have slightly larger tyres with treads, and allow a more relaxed riding position. Key features of cross bikes are given below:
Key Features of Cyclocross Bikes
- Tyre tread. Cyclocross bikes have knobby tires with a low profile tread that provides excellent traction on various surfaces such as mud, sand, grass, and gravel. These tires are wider than road bike tires, with more clearance but narrower than mountain bike tires.
- Larger tyre clearance.Another key feature of cyclocross bikes is their ability to accommodate wider tires and larger tire clearance. This makes it easier to ride over obstacles like rocks, roots, and curbs.
- Geometry. Unlike road bikes, cyclocross bikes have a more relaxed geometry that allows for greater stability when riding over rough terrain.
- Lightweight. The frames of cyclocross bikes are built to be durable and withstand the rigors of off-road riding. They are typically made of lightweight materials like aluminum or carbon fiber.
- Brake type. Many cyclocross bikes come equipped with disc brakes which offer better stopping power in wet and muddy conditions compared to traditional rim brakes.
- Anti-mud features. Finally, cyclocross bikes often have additional features like eyelets for fenders and racks which make them versatile enough for commuting or touring.
How To Ride a Cyclocross Bike
It’s fairly simple. The bikes are built for riding on roads, pavement as well as offroad on gravel, muddy terrain- it’s a very good hybrid bike, if you will.
#1 Pick a trail/park
When it comes to riding off-road, my suggestion is to simply pick a beginner level trail near you (simply google “beginner mtb/cross trails near me”) and go for a ride. You could also go for a ride in a park near you. Pick a grassy area, perhaps with a few hillocks so you can get comfortable riding in undulating terrain.
#2 Get used to riding in different conditions
If it rained heavily yesterday and the ground is completely muddy today- that’s a great opportunity to get used to riding in the mud. Or, if it was really cold and the ground is a bit frosty today, you should still go out to get used to riding in slippery conditions- cross bikes are very hardy and can handle these type of things.
#3 Practise the ‘Upright Riding Position’
90% of the time while you’re cyclocross riding, you’ll be in this position. The following is what you should be doing:
- Have your bum on the bike saddle.
- Lower cadence than average. Don’t be afraid to go a bit slow.
- Keep your hands on the brake hoods. Hold them a bit firmly in order to control the bike better.
- Keep your arms firm but slightly bent at the elbows. This allows you to control the bike while absorbing shocks, as well.
#4 Practise the ‘Attack Position’
The balance 10% of your time on the rides will be spent in this attack position.
Most of you would likely have experienced bike riding on smooth roads, so that comes easy. However, riding off-road can seem very jarring with all the bumps in the terrain which physically will tire you out unless you take some steps to soften your positioning.
The best thing to do when you’re traversing bumpy terrain on a cross bike is to get into the attack position, which simply means:
- Get your bum out of the saddle and slightly ahead.
- Get your hands down on the drop bars.
- Keep both your pedals horizontal on nearly the same level.
The first few rides, just try and get comfortable with the upright riding position, mounting and dismounting, as well as the feel of riding in technical terrain (off-road terrain).
You will realise that riding a cross bike is much more of an upper body workout than riding a road bike.
#5 Practise getting traction on slippery climbs
Most people tend to ride out of the saddle when climbing. However, climbing on slippery terrain can be challenging when you do this, as your bike might not get enough traction.
What you should do instead, is to transfer your weight back as much as you can till you’re almost sitting on the saddle. In fact, if you can, sit on the saddle while climbing to get the most amount of traction.
How to Choose the Right Size and Fit for a Cyclocross Bike
If you already own a bike.
If you already have a road bike that suits you perfectly- you can pretty much go ahead and get the same sized cyclocross bike as well.
Traditional advice used to be to buy one size smaller cyclocross bikes than the usual road bikes- but that was because of certain design features in cross bikes that have now been eliminated- such as lower bottom brackets. So, you can ignore the old advice and go for a similar sized cross bike as your road bike.
If you don’t own a bike.
If you don’t own a bike previously/want to be a bit more exact- here are a few things you should look out for when it comes to sizing a cyclocross bike for yourself:
#1 Clearance. Ensure you have around 5 cms of clearance between your groin and the bike frame when you’re standing over it with your feet on the ground.
#2 Seat Height. You should be able to adjust the seat such that when you pedal, there should be just a tiny bend in your knee. For this, most people prefer to have the seat height same as their road bikes or upto 1 cm shorter than that. The seat positioning is also important (how far forward/back and whether it should have a slight tilt) and for this, I have written a guide on bike seat height adjustments that will apply for cross bikes as well. Strongly suggest you read it.
#3 Frame Size. The A-frame of the bike (below the handlebars) should be big enough for you to loop your arm through it and shoulder the bike. This is an essential part of cyclocross riding that beginners don’t think about. If the frame is too small, you’ll have a tough time carrying the bike- and there will be a lot of that during cyclocross racing.
5 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cyclocross Bike
1. Budget
Cross bikes can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on the features and materials used.
If you’re a beginner, I’d suggest buying an entry level cross bike, such as a single speed cross bike, which will be lighter, easier to maintain and much cheaper. In fact, you could even consider a hybrid or gravel bike, like this one on Decathlon.
If you’re slightly more advanced, here’s a great one you could think about buying.
But heart of hearts, if money were no object-I’d really ask you to take a look at this one as well. This is a high end racing model.
2. Type of Riding
If you’re buying your first cross bike, and might like to also use it for general commuting purposes, or leisurely road cycling – you should consider one of the lower end/entry level cross bikes.
However, if you’re buying one solely for the purpose of competing, and that too, very seriously, then go for one of the higher end bikes (links given above).
3. Frame Material
Aluminum frames are more affordable but tend to have a harsher ride than carbon fiber frames which are lighter, more comfortable but come at a higher price point.
Steel frames are also an option, but they tend to be heavier and less popular than aluminum or carbon fiber frames.
Generally, steel frame bikes are the cheapest, followed by Aluminium frame bikes, followed by carbon fiber frame bikes. This is true for all types of bikes- not just cyclocross bikes.
4. Fit
Body type and riding style play significant roles in determining the right size and fit for your bike. Just make sure you read the previous section where I wrote exactly about this!
5. Additional Features
Finally, consider any additional features that may be important for your needs such as eyelets for fenders or racks if you plan on using the bike for commuting or touring.
2 Additional Tips To Set Up Your Cyclocross Bike
#1 Handlebars. The handlebars should be 1-2 cm higher and ~1 cm closer to you than on a road bike- this is more comfortable when riding on rough terrain. This makes drop handlebars much more useable on technical terrain and makes the brakes more accessible as well.
#2 Consider Tubular Tyres. Most avid cross bikers run their bikes on tubular tyres (like this one on Amazon) because they perform much better.
A tubular tyre is simply one in which the inner and outer tubes are stitched and glued onto the wheel rim. You can run these at lower pressure, and still have a fast and comfortable ride.
The tradeoff is that because the tyres are at a lower pressure, there is a slightly increased chance of getting a flat- so if you’re looking to ride in rocky terrain, it might be better to have slightly more tyre pressure. Lower pressures mean higher risk of punctures!
Also, tubular tyres are more expensive than other types of tyres- just something to keep in mind, although, in my opinion- they make up for it by granting a much better riding experience.
Side Note: As per cyclocross racing rules, the tyres should be 33 cm or less in width. Do double check the size of your tyres before buying them, if you intend to enter many races. This is because, at times, there are discrepancies between the advertised size and the actual size of the tyre- which is why it is always best to check for yourself.
What Gear Do You Need For Cyclocross?
Having the right gear is just as important as having the right cross bike, because the sport is really intense and there is a high chance of hurting yourself during a race if you’re not careful. Here are some essential items to consider:
#1 Shoes
Cyclocross shoes are the same as MTB shoes- but they should be comfortable, durable, and provide good traction when running or walking on slippery surfaces. They are also different from road bike clip-in shoes, because the part of the shoe that clips into the pedal is designed differently from road bike shoes- it is highly recessed so that you can walk around on the ground/road if need be while wearing the shoe.
This becomes really important because you’ll have to dismount and physically carry the bike for particular stretches of the cyclocross track.
I suggest buying this pair of MTB shoes and pedals for your cross bike.
#2 Gloves
Gloves are a must-have for cyclocross riding, providing protection from cold weather and helping to maintain grip on handlebars. Look for gloves made from breathable materials that wick away sweat and keep hands dry.
#3 Helmets
Look for helmets that offer maximum coverage and have a secure fit system to ensure maximum protection in case of a fall. I really liked this one on Amazon.
#4 Few additional items
If you don’t have a pair already- definitely buy some padded shorts or cycling pants for yourself.
If you’re riding in cold weather (which is typically how cyclocross originated in Europe)- you should have a base layer as well to keep you warm. These retain the heat in your body while allowing the sweat to dry off quickly.
You could also consider a fluorescent jacket/vest along with the above.
Lastly-having a set of high beam lights (front and rear) for the bike is a must have.
Tips for Maintaining and Cleaning a Cyclocross Bike
If you ride a cyclocross bike how it was intended to be ridden- across muddy, harsh terrain- you will need to maintain it after every ride. Here are some important points:
Clean and Lubricate Your Bike After Every Ride
Use soap and water to remove any dirt or mud that has accumulated on the frame, tires, and components. Be sure to dry your bike completely after washing it to prevent rust from forming.
After wiping down the bike and allowing it to dry, I usually apply lubricating oil to the moving parts like the chain, derailleur, gear-sets. Make sure to remove any excess oil by giving it a quick second wipe after a minute or so of letting the oil sit.
Check Tire Pressure Regularly
Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for optimal performance and longevity of your cyclocross bike. Check the tire pressure regularly using a gauge, and adjust it as needed based on the terrain you’ll be riding on.
How much pressure should you aim for in a cyclocross bike?
Generally speaking, if you have tubular tyres, your tyre pressure should be under 30 psi. For tubeless tyres, 30-40 psi is standard and for clincher tyres, 40-50 psi is the average.
Of course, this is just a rule of thumb and you’ll have to make adjustments based on your weight, riding style and terrain. Just try adjusting the pressure up and down to figure out what works best for you over a couple rides.
Store Your Bike Properly
Having a wall mount for your bike will make your life so much easier- especially if you don’t have a lot of storage space. A simple one like this should do, however if you want something a bit fancier- take a look at this one as well.
Alternatively, if you have a shed where you can keep the bike away from very high or low temperatures- you should place it there.
Cyclocross Bike vs Road Bike Vs Gravel Bike Vs Mountain Bike : A Complete Comparison
To the layperson, there isn’t much that differentiates the different types of bikes. Which makes the buying decision confusing.
When actually purchasing the bike, you might have questions like:
“Why not just buy a mtb/gravel bike and use it for cyclocross racing if you can get a cheaper deal?”
That’s why I made a comparison table that gives you the major differentiating factors between these different types of bikes.
| Bike Type | Tyre width | Geometry | Gearing | Weight | Accessories | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cross Bike | 30-35mm | Race-oriented | Narrow gear range | Light | None usually (you’ll have to buy separately) | Racing on unpaved surfaces |
| Road Bike | 23-28mm | Aerodynamic | Narrow gear range | Light | None usually (you’ll have to buy separately) | Riding on smooth roads |
| Gravel Bike | 35-50mm | More relaxed | Wider gear range | Medium | Mudguards, racks, bottle cages | Riding on gravel roads and trails |
| Mountain Bike | 53-63mm | More upright | Wide gear range | Heavy | Suspension fork, dropper post | Riding on rough terrain |
FAQ
What’s the difference between a Cyclocross Bike vs Road Bike?
Cyclocross bikes, when compared to road bikes have thicker, treaded tires for traction on rough terrain. They also have tighter gears, and MTB pedals. They’re designed for short rides and rough terrain. Road bikes have slick tires, larger chainrings, and are built for speed.
Externally- road bikes and cross bikes look the same as they both have drop bars, as well as (in most cases) disc brakes. The riding position is almost the same, although in a cross bike, you’ll ride in a slightly more upright position.
Few points of difference between road bikes and cyclocross bikes are:
#1 Tyre Size, Tread and Pattern. Road bike tyres are slick whereas cyclocross bike tyres have treads, and come in different tread patterns based on the terrain. The tread on cyclocross tyre helps give traction when rounding corners and you can also ride it with less tyre pressure than a road bike as the tyres are wider- this means it is more comfortable on bumpy terrain.
#2 Gearing. Road bikes will typically have large front chainrings-say in the 50-53t so you can pedal upto 70kmph. Cyclocross bikes will typically have a 36-46t chainring combination with an 11-28t cassette. Some cyclocross bikes may even just have a single chainring.
#3 Pedals. Cyclocross bikes have mtb pedals that are easy to clip into and have slightly recessed cleats on the cycling shoes as compared to road bike pedals. This allows riders to walk around in the cleats and carry the cross bike on their shoulders, which is a big part of the race itself. You can’t do that if you’re walking around in road bike cleats.
#4 Riding Control. Cyclocross bikes are slightly shorter with a higher seat, which gives you a bit more control while riding technical terrain.
Cyclocross vs. Gravel Bikes: What’s the Difference?
Cyclocross bikes are built for speed and agility on off-road terrain, while gravel bikes prioritize comfort and versatility on a variety of surfaces. Differences include geometry, tires, and riding position.
Mountain Bikes vs. Cyclocross Bikes: What’s the Difference?
While both MTB and cross bikes are are designed for off-road riding, MTBs are designed for more technical terrain, have wider tires and lower gears. Cross bikes can handle a mix of terrains, have narrower tires and higher gears (can go faster). Further details are given below:
1. Intended Use
Mountain bikes are designed for technical terrain with steep descents and obstacles like rocks and roots. Cyclocross bikes, on the other hand, are designed for racing on a mix of terrains including grass, mud, gravel, and tarmac.
2. Geometry
Mountain bikes typically have a slacker head tube angle which provides more stability at high speeds and better handling on steep descents. They also have longer wheelbases which provide more traction and balance on technical terrain. Cyclocross bikes have a steeper head tube angle which makes them more responsive to steering input and easier to handle in tight turns.
3. Tires
The tires on mountain bikes are wider than those found on cyclocross bikes with more aggressive tread patterns that provide better grip on loose or uneven terrain. Cyclocross tires are narrower with less aggressive tread patterns that provide better rolling resistance on smoother surfaces while still offering enough grip for off-road conditions.
4. Gearing
Mountain bikes usually have lower gears than cyclocross bikes to help riders climb steep hills or navigate technical terrain. Cyclocross races tend to be shorter than mountain bike races so riders can get away with higher gears that allow them to go faster on straightaways.
What’s the difference between a Cyclocross Vs Hybrid Bike?
Hybrid bikes are designed for a mix of on-road and light off-road riding, while cyclocross bikes are designed specifically for off-road riding and racing. Hybrid bikes have a more relaxed geometry, wider tires, and a wider range of gears than cyclocross bikes. Cyclocross bikes have a more aggressive geometry, narrower tires with a more aggressive tread pattern, and are designed for steep climbs and technical descents.
As someone who owned a Hybrid bike previously, I can safely say that Hybrid bikes are ideal for commuters who want a bike that can handle both smooth roads and occasional gravel paths or dirt trails.
Cyclocross bikes, on the other hand, are designed specifically for off-road riding and racing.
The geometry of hybrid bikes is more relaxed than that of cyclocross bikes, with a lower bottom bracket height and longer chainstays. This makes them more comfortable to ride over longer distances, but less nimble in tight turns.
Hybrid bikes typically have wider tires than road bikes but narrower than mountain bikes or cyclocross bikes. The tread pattern is usually less aggressive than that found on cyclocross tires, providing better rolling resistance on smoother surfaces.
In terms of gearing, hybrid bikes usually have a wider range of gears than cyclocross bikes to accommodate different types of terrain. However, they may not have as many low gears as mountain bikes since they are not designed for steep climbs or technical descents.