Cycloross beginner

[Richard Swanney]

I am looking to get into Cyclocross for the winter, any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. I'd like to use it on track and trails but also as a road winter trainer too.

 

[palinurus]

For dual use a spare set of wheels is handy (even better if you already have them), easier to switch between road and 'cross use, although it should be possible to find a compromise tyre for road and trail assuming you won't need to deal with lots of mud. The other problem is mudguards, if I use my 'cross bike on the road (infrequent in my case) I put on some old Raceblades that I have.

I take it that when you say cyclocross you mean riding off-road for some variety rather than racing.

 

[dan_bo]

For a start, hurry up about it 'cos we're almost a third of the way through the season!

Other than that, practice getting really really out of breath. If indeed you're thinking of racing that is.

 

[Richard Swanney]

Yes I live in Orkney and no cyclocross races here but just thought a cyclocross would be ideal for winter road rides and a bit of off road stuff mostly tracks with some muddy stuff. And fitness won't be a problem Dan lol

 

[ayceejay]

I think Richard is asking if he should buy a cyclocross bike.

 

[Richard Swanney]

Lol I am buying one I just wonder if it will be any use off road? I also read people like a size smaller than their usual as easier to handle and jump on and off.

 

[Richard A Thackeray]

practice getting really really out of breath. If indeed you're thinking of racing that is.

Damned right!!

I remember it well, from my CX racing days

 

[youngoldbloke]

I often wonder just how many people buying CX bikes nowadays know what Cyclocross refers to?

 

[Richard Swanney]

Ah Wikipedia the holy grail of facts. Please tell me more Youngoldbloke, CX,Cyclocross, do they have a single specific use then?

 

[youngoldbloke]

Click on the blue link ^

 

[Richard Swanney]

I did but didn't realise people were so sensitive in the Cyclocross fraternity, I'm sure I won't get struck by lightening if I use it for off road and winter road bike
!

 

[youngoldbloke]

I did but didn't realise people were so sensitive in the Cyclocross fraternity, I'm sure I won't get struck by lightening if I use it for off road and winter road bike
!

... doubt it

 

[ayceejay]

You are still not getting it Richard and I tried to be kind earlier.
'Cyclocross' is a form of cycle racing that usually involves a a circuit over undulating terrain of mud sand etc. during what would normally be the off season for road racing. The bikes used have lower gearing, more relaxed geometry and wider tires making them ideal for everyday riding or off road trips. If you use the word 'cyclocross' most people would think you mean the sport rather than the bike used in the sport so if you say 'cyclocross' but mean 'cyclocross bike' this can lead to confusion as is evident from the replies you've had here.

 

[Richard Swanney]

My bad, thanks for clearing that up.