The sport of cyclo-cross is an intense, fun mix of cycling (generally over rolling, grassy and muddy terrain), obstacles and running. Some obstacles can be ridden (much to the crowd’s delight) but some require the rider to leap off the bike, typically carrying some speed, picking up the bike, running with it and scaling the obstacle, jumping back on, and riding.
For that reason, ‘cross bikes need to be sturdy yet light, and have ample clearance for wider, knobby tires. Many road frames cannot be converted to ‘cross because of the lack of tire clearance; likewise, mountain frames cannot be converted to ‘cross because of the different wheel sizes. ‘Cross bikes have to be light – the rider may have to carry the bike as many as 30 times during a race! Many have high bottom brackets for mud clearance and have old-style cantilever brakes which shed mud easily.
For many people, a stable of bikes is not an option. For a bike that can truly, honestly do it all, I would recommend a cyclo-cross bike over any other type. With a relaxed road geometry (more upright riding position), road handlebars and shifters, geared somewhere between a road bike and a mountain bike gearing, and wide, knobby tires (typically 28-35c), a cyclo-cross bike is equally at home on the road or (non-technical) trail.
Frames can be any material: steel, titanium, aluminum, carbon. Forks are typically carbon, but sturdier than a road fork. Wheels are surprisingly not much beefier than modern road wheels, but hold up well.
This is a perfect commuter bike, even if the sport of cyclo-cross isn’t appealing. It handles gravel roads, mud and rough pavement with much more confidence than a road bike, yet is much faster than a mountain bike.
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