Cyclo-cross is roughly the equivalent of cross-country running for bicyclists.
The sport, which originated in Europe more than 75 years ago, was intended
as off-season (Oct.-Jan.) training for road riders. Riders practiced on
forest trails, parks, and soccer fields, etc. This often meant crossing
streams, climbing over fallen trees and carrying their bikes through
unridable sections.The typical 'cross course consists of a 1 to 2 mile loop of varied terrain, including dirt, pavement, steep run-ups and off-camber turns. Natural and artificial barriers are often used to force the riders to dismount and remount their bicycles at speed. The races are timed events which last between 30 and 60 minutes each, depending on the riders's age and/or ability level.
Cyclo-cross Q & A
Q: What type of bicycle is used for cyclocross?
A: Though the use of mountain bikes has increased in recent years, a 'cross bike consists of a road bike modified to withstand the rigors of off-road riding. Modifications to the bike typically consist of the addition of knobby tires, bar-end shifters, and cantilever brakes. A frame built specifically for 'cross includes a raised bottom bracket for increased ground clearance.
Q: Why do people race 'cross?
A: Due to the running sections and constant "on again/off again" nature of the sport, participants find that racing 'cross improves their bike handling skills and provides a more well rounded workout than regular road or mt. bike cycling. More importantly, riders enjoy the typically low-key, friendly competition they find in cyclocross. Though there exist national and world cyclocross championship events, 'cross remains a relatively fringe sport with a dedicated following who continue to race the Surf City series year after year.
Q: How does one learn cyclocross?
A: The Santa Cruz County Cycling Club offers training clinics, offered throughout the series, taught by experienced cyclocrossers. The clinics include breakfast, a lecture on technique and equipment, actual practice dismounting and remounting the bicycle, and a pre-ride of the course with analysis by the instructors.
Cyclo-cross/cycling links
Here are some sites that you may find useful
The UCI CX web site
1997 SCCX Web Site
1996 SCCX Web Site
NCNCA Page
