Ten starter cyclo-cross bikes

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So there we have it, a list of 10 bikes that could get you onto the slippery slope of cyclo-cross. While some are pure out and out race bikes, others are more “multi-sport” bikes, and this is all part of the appeal of cyclo-cross racing; using a bike that you could, with a few small tweaks, use for pretty much anything you like.

Here’s a few things to consider before making that choice…

With the UCI deciding that disc brakes are now race legal, you will have to decide if the greater power you get from discs is really needed in cyclo-cross racing, where the courses aren’t as radical as mountain bike courses and you’re only looking to scrub off speed, rather than slamming on full anchors. Of course, the mud avoiding abilities of disc brakes make them a real advantage on muddy, leaf blown courses.

Another advantage with disc brakes is that instead of grinding your rims down to nothing, which means rebuilding your wheels, you can simply replace a disc rotor for about £20 upwards. Its a lot cheaper than a new wheel, which means you can build your ultimate wheel and it will last.

However, with new bikes coming out with discs and an increased demand for this style of frame, keep an eye out for older cantilever only bikes being sold off cheap. Bear in mind that at the top pro level very few riders use disc bikes in races…

Could discs spell the end for the humble cantilever? Photo by Tylernol

As for chainring choice, many of the bikes come with a compact set-up, typically 50-34t, or even a triple. Whereas the latter is a bit on the heavy side, a 50 tooth chainring may be a little too high for cross, so you might want to check if a 46t ring is an option, or budget for a replacement.

Some riders are also running single chainrings, but you’ve got to know your course and your fitness before going down that route. And there’s always the mtb madness of the single speed, if you want to make life difficult, although on the up side it is one less place for mud to collect…

Gear choice is very important in cyclo-cross Photo by Bill Mulder

Of course if you are going to buy one bike to do it all, then maybe you could look at spending a little more? And we all know where that kind of thinking leads! Fortunately CycleTechReview.com has got that covered, check out our feature looking at the best cyclocross bikes out there…

 
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