Cyclocross bikes and road bikes use similar, but not identical, frames, wheels and other components. While cyclocross bikes are designed for off-road or partially off-road rides, road bikes are designed for riding on paved roads. Designed largely for competitive use, a basic cyclocross bike costs more than a basic road bike.
Size
The rear triangle and fork of a cyclocross bike has more clearance than a road bike to fit wider tires and minimize mud buildup. The typical cyclocross bike weighs more than a road bike because the frame is built to withstand harsher impacts and jolts. It weighs less than a lightweight mountain bike because riders occasionally carry their bikes in cyclocross events.
Fit
Cyclocross bikes, because they are used on more complex terrain than road bikes, use a slightly more upright seating position than road bikes. According to Bikesport, this translates to around 1cm shorter reach to the handlebars and 1cm shorter seat height, though the ideal fit varies from person to person.
Tire Features
Cyclocross tires are wider than road tires and generally have some tread on them, though significantly less than the large knobby tread of many mountain bike tires. The width ranges from 25mm to 35mm, which is similar to the range of widths for touring and commuting tires. Different types of cyclocross tires are used for different terrain, in contrast to road bike tires, which are designed to perform optimally on a paved road.
Components
Cyclocross and road bikes commonly feature drop handlebars and clipless pedals. CyclingNews.com points out that crossing the brake cables with the brake levers is convenient for cyclocross because it allows you to brake the rear wheel with the left hand as you slow down near an obstacle, clip out of your right pedal and prepare to dismount. Cyclocross bikes might have only one chain ring to eliminate the weight of the front derailleur and shifter and minimize the risk of the chain jumping off the chain ring during shifting. If they have two chain rings, the range of sizes is smaller than those on a road bike, making them more practical for off-road use and less practical for paved road riding.
Considerations
Cyclocross bikes might lack water bottle cages or the holes to attach one because cyclocross is typically a short and intense event and water bottles can fall out of the cages during carrying or mounting and dismounting. The Commute by Bike website notes that many road bikes and cyclocross bikes are not sized to allow the attachment of fenders or luggage racks. If these features are important to you, check for the correct attachments before buying.
Member Comments