In the late nineteenth century, a French soldier named Daniel Gousseau originated the sport that would eventually become known as cyclocross -- to stay fit during the winter months, Gousseau rode his bicycle over rough trails, stopping to carry it over obstacles. In 1902, the first Cyclocross National Championships were held in France. Today, cyclocross is gaining popularity and adherents, and manufacturers are building lighter and more durable bikes than ever before.
Scott CX Team
The Cross Bike Review website named the Scott CX Team the "Crossbike of the Year" for 2010. The CX Team features a Shimano Ultegra and FSA Gossamer drivetrain, TRP brakes and DT Swiss R-1700 CX wheels. Scwalbe Rocket Ron rubber helps keep you in your groove. The hydroformed aluminum alloy tube, carbon fork and aluminum steerer provide an excellent strength to weight ratio and tracking without the chatter, say reviewers. The CX Team is adept at climbing, handling and especially cornering. The Scott CX Team's retail price is around $1,800 as of 2011.
Fuji Cross Comp
"Bicycling" magazine likes the Fuji Cross Comp, calling it "a flat-out steal" for the price. The Cross Comp is one tough customer thanks to a Fuji Altair 1 aluminum with PowerDiamond down tube, Bonded Carbon Cross fork and Cro-Mo steerer. Throw in a Shimano 105/FSA Gossamer drivetrain, Tektro brakes and, as of 2011, a retail price of only about $1,300, and the Fuji Cross Comp is a hard bike to beat either on or off the track.
Giant TCX 0
If you're going to have one bike for both road and cyclocross, the Giant TCX 0 would be a good choice, according to Scott Mares at Cross Bike Review. The frame combines several multi-shaped aluminum tubes, including a square-shaped down tube, with a BB 30 bottom bracket for strength and power. The TCX 0 comes with Shimano Ultegra components, TRP EuroX-Mag brakes and a DT Swiss R1800 wheelset to make it one of the most reliable and durable bikes on the market. The Giant TCX 0 costs around $2,350 in 2011.
Blue Norcross
The Blue Norcross is "beefy," according to "Bicycling" magazine. Blue is the official sponsor of cyclocross superstar Jonathan Page, so its no wonder they also produce some of the sport's premier bikes. The Norcross is a full-carbon beast that is built for punishment, say reviewers. As of 2011, you can get the Blue Norcross with SRAM Force components for $3,800 or Shimano Ultegra 6700 components for $4,000.
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