Cyclocross bikes differ from regular road bikes in a few ways. The frame's rear triangle and fork are designed to allow greater clearance for wider tires and to help decrease mud buildup. The bikes use cantilever brakes for better control in messy conditions as well as to better handle mud. In terms of weight, cross bikes are typically somewhere between road bikes and lighter weight mountain bikes. Cyclocross bikes are specifically designed to handle messy conditions, having to dismount/remount frequently and are built to handle the abuse a cyclocross course dishes out.
Fuji Cross Comp
The Cross comp features mostly 105 components, cyclocross gearing and decent cantilever brakes. According to Bicycling Magazine, "this bike is a steal." The frame is built out of aluminum for a light yet durable bike. Fuji routed the cables on the top of the top tube to make for more comfortable shouldering when going over obstacles. It also features a carbon fork to dampen some of the pounding.
Stevens Carbon Team Ultegra
The Carbon Team features a carbon frame with a low bottom bracket for handling tight corners, short chainstays for quick changes of speed, and a top tube that is a touch slanted to help with quick dismounts/remounts as well as shouldering. The frame is a tad on the heavy side at 1,235 g, but Stevens is factoring in heft and durability to account for the weight.
Cannondale CX Red
The CX Red is a true cyclocross high-end racing bike featuring top quality components. It has a Hollogram Si SL BB30 cyclocross crank, SRAM Red drivetrain and Mavic Ksyruim tubular wheels. The frame is alloy aluminum so it will not cost an arm and leg to repair. A unique feature is the CX comes in seven fits not five like most major brands cross bikes.
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