How to choose a cyclo-cross bike
Cyclo-cross bikes are suitable for roads and even terrain. Along with mountain bikes, they are the most common bike type you can see on bike paths. They are widely used by athletes and recreational cyclists.
Frequently asked questions when choosing a cyclo-cross bike
Is it a good bike for athletes?
Yes. With a cyclo-cross bike you can take long bike trips and it copes well with paved roads and grassy surfaces.
Do I need any accessories?
Cyclo-cross bikes generally don’t come with any accessories, so it’s up to you whether you need fenders, lights and such.
Can I ride a cyclo-cross bike in a forest?
Yes. It’s actually designed for the woods and similar terrain, so you can take it on most bike paths and wooded trails.
How do I sit on a cyclo-cross bike?
Cyclo-cross bikes seat you in the so-called neutral sitting position, with your body posed at a 40° angle. It doesn’t strain your back, but it’s also not as leisurely and relaxing as an upright position.
Cyclo-cross bikes
Important Parameters
Frame height
Frame height is usually measured in inches or sizes S, M, L, XL and is determined by the distance from your foot to crotch or by your total height.
Body height in cm | Frame height according to size | |
|---|---|---|
| less than 165 cm | 15", 16", S, up to 44 cm | |
| 160-170 cm | 17", 18", M, up to 48 cm | |
| 170-185 cm | 19", 20", L, up to 52 cm | |
| 185-200 cm | 21", 22", L, up to 55 cm | |
| over 195 cm | 23", 24" L, 58-60 cm | |
*The chart is only for the general reference, as in rare cases, the details may vary. | ||
Frame material
Steel frames are tough and cheaper than other options. The downside is their higher weight and tendency to rust. Carbon frames are lighter, flexible, and don't weaken over time. Duralumin frames are cheaper, but heavier than carbon frames.
Suspension
Most cyclo-cross bikes have front suspension to provide shock absorption on the pavement and off-road.
Brakes
The most common are the so-called v-brakes, which brake by rubbing the friction pads against the rim. They are cheap, easy to maintain, but their braking effect drops when the mechanism gets wet. The second option are the disc brakes, which work equally well when wet or dry. On the downside, their maintenance is more difficult. Disc brakes are controlled by cable or hydraulically.
Glossary - Bikes
Gears
Featured on most bikes, gears allow you to select the degree of difficulty when pedaling. At low gears (e.g. when cycling uphill), pedalling is easier, but the pedal frequency increases at the same time. Conversely, when using a high gear (e.g. on a flat road), you pedal less but more forcefully. Gears are essential for anyone who plans to cycle on mixed or hilly terrain.
Frame
An ideal bike frame is lightweight and sturdy. Frame sizes are measured in inches or units, or sizes S, M, L, XL. Bicycle frames are typically made from steel, aluminium or carbon fibre. Steel frames were once common but are now in decline; while being strong and relatively cheap, they are heavier and subject to rust. Alloy frames are cheaper but heavier than carbon fibre frames, which offer a lighter, more flexible, and yet equally strong option.
Fork
The front fork is a key component of any bicycle and determines its overall quality. Suspension forks use compressed air or a spring system to insulate the rider from the roughness of the terrain. Air suspension is the more common option, despite it being more expensive than spring suspension; moreover, the air pressure can be adjusted to the weight of the rider. Spring suspension is the cheaper option and provides a slightly more sensitive damping; however, one disadvantage is that the spring force depends on the weight of the rider, and sometimes the spring can harden at low temperatures.
Glossary
Wheel diameter
Most cyclo-cross bikes have 28-inch wheels with narrow tires. These give the bike good traction and speed on pavement and are tough enough to handle some off-road riding.
For more information on how to choose the right bike size, read our article.