1. Motocross Without a Motor
Cyclocross is similar to motocross except racers are on bicycles rather than motorcycles. A cyclocross racecourse consists of several obstacles you must traverse over, either by pedaling your bike or carrying it. Most courses are approximately 2 miles and contain pavement, muddy hills, wooded trails and grass. Racers must complete several laps on the course, and the races typically last 30 minutes to an hour. Cyclocross is traditionally a fall sport, with races taking places September through January.
2. Know the Anatomy of a Cyclocross Bike
Cyclocross bikes are designed specifically for the sport. They resemble a hybrid between a racing road bicycle and a mountain bike. Although cyclocross frames look very similar to road bike frames, cyclocross bicycles have a larger clearance and larger tires. Cyclocross frames must be stiff enough to withstand the shocks of the course but extremely lightweight because racers must carry their bikes dozens of times during a single race. Cyclocross tires are large and knobby to provide traction over various surfaces. Disc brakes generally aren't used because of their tendency to become clogged with mud. Most cyclocross riders prefer to use clip-less pedals for easy dismounting and to avoid dragging toeclips.
3. Race by the Rules
A cyclocross race is over when a time limit has expired rather than when a certain number of laps have been completed. Races for advanced riders are typically 1 hour long. The majority of the course is ridable, but certain sections require you to run through the terrain while carrying your bicycle. Usually, there aren't any long sections of one specific terrain, which requires you to continually change your speed and riding technique. You can swap out bikes in the middle of the course and use a mechanic or pit crew to clean and repair your bicycle.
4. Wear a Proper Cyclocross Uniform
Because of the fall and winter months during the cyclocross season, you will generally wear warmer clothing than your road racing counterparts. Cycloracing clothing is similar to road racing gear, which is the tight, formfitting shorts, pants and jerseys that are preferred. When the weather permits, you can wear skin suits without any top layers to cut down on the amount of clothing that could potentially get snagged. Mountain bike shoes with toe studs are comfortable while running and provide good traction while scaling steep hills.
5. The Aerobic Advantage
The best cyclocross racers are extremely fit and can easily handle the changes in speed and terrain. Cyclocross courses don't require the technical skills demanded in mountain biking, although skilled riders have an easier time maneuvering through obstacles. Cyclocross requires excellent upper-body strength as valuable time can be lost while carrying the bicycle. Many race directors set up barriers to encourage dismounting, but skilled riders can hop over these barriers, easily passing those riders on foot.
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