For cyclocross riders, there are a large number of special clothes available. However, if you are just starting out, for now, what you already have will be sufficient. At first, we would not recommend buying an expensive carbon bike, because you will definitely ruin it. In some races, you can race on a simple road bike (just replace the simple tires with studded ones), a hybrid or a mountain bike. Check with the organizers’ requirements to be sure.
1.Cyclecross Bikes.
The ideal cyclocross bike is a mix of road bike and mountain bike: lightweight aluminum, carbon, steel or titanium frame, carbon fork, road bike handlebars, built-in hand grips or brake levers, 700c x 30-38c studded tires, mountain bike contact pedals and a single or double chain (shorter than on a regular road bike) with protection. The frame and fork of the bike are stiffer than on a regular road bike, the top tube of the frame is shorter, and the carriage is often located higher. Disc brakes are very popular because they allow braking in all weathers. Some riders still use bikes with cantilever-type V-brakes or cantilever brakes, which, with the proper setup, can perform well. Brake levers are placed on the handlebars for better control of handling. Many cross-country bikes reach their full potential when you add fenders and racks to them for daily commutes or weekend explorations of the surrounding areas.
- cyclocross shoes and pedals
Have you figured out by now that there’s a lot of dirt on cyclocross trails? Dirt can get caught in the cleat and moving parts of the contact pedal and ruin all your efforts. This means that most riders will lean toward choosing mountain bike pedals because they are designed to handle the harsh conditions and keep up the good work. Mountain bike shoes are also popular because of the spikes on their soles.
- cyclocross clothing and equipment
Cyclocross races are often short and steep, and even though they are also held in the winter, it is never cold at them. Regular cycling clothes will suffice, but just think about the conditions of the race and it may turn out that your best choice, is not the best choice at all. With that in mind, make sure you have something to change into when you finish the race.
Cyclocross is a great discipline for keeping you fit and healthy, and it’s great for those who don’t have a lot of free time.