Are you 'cross?

Winter's here and it's time to hang up your road bike and head indoors to your pain cave, right? No! Why spend hours sweating indoors on a bike that never goes anywhere when you could be outside in the mud?

Yes, it's that time of year when cyclo-crossers will do their best to convert you. The question is will this be the year you give in? As a ‘crosser myself, I'd be happy to bend your ear, extolling the benefits of CX and often have.

So, with the season well underway, let's take a look at those reasons.

10 Reasons to Try Cyclocross

1. Full-body workout: Cyclocross combines cycling, running, and high-intensity training. You’ll ride, dismount, carry your bike, and sprint; building strength and endurance.

2. Short, intense races: Most races last 30-60 minutes, so you get a huge fitness boost without committing to ultra-long events. It also means you spend less time in the wet and cold!

3. Extend your cycling season: Cyclocross runs through autumn and winter, keeping you active when road or mountain biking might slow down.

4. Skill development: Navigating mud, sand, grass, and obstacles sharpens your bike handling skills, which transfer to road and mountain biking.

5. Accessible venues: Races are often held in local parks or fields, making them easy to attend and fun for spectators. Racing with people cheering you on is not something that often happens for us amateurs, so make the most of it. And there’s usually cake, coffee and frites on hand!

6. Family-friendly atmosphere: Events usually include categories for all ages and abilities, so kids and beginners can join in too. It’s not unusual to see parents and kids racing; much more fun than standing on the touch-line shouting. Although you may have to deal with your kids being better than you!

7. Adrenaline and fun: Mud, barriers, and cheering crowds create an exciting, playful environment. It’s as much about smiles as speed. You’ll soon find your level and be racing against your peers, irrespective of where you finish. Which is much more fun than being dropped after the first hill in a road race.

8. Mental toughness: Cyclocross is hard. It pushes you physically and mentally, helping you build resilience.

9. Community spirit: The supportive, festive vibe at races makes it easy to meet fellow riders and feel part of a cycling community.

10. Great spectator sport: Because courses are compact, fans can see most of the action from one spot, making it engaging for friends and family. Did I mention there’s cake?

There you go, ten good reasons to become a muddy-legged ‘crosser. And of course if you’re looking to join the gang, you will need a bike. 

While you could race on a gravel or mountain bike, a cyclocross bike gives you a competitive edge. It’s lighter to carry, faster on grass and pavement, and more responsive in technical sections. In short, it’s the right tool for the job and using one will make your race experience smoother, safer, and more fun. Those advantages are:

Purpose-built geometry: Cyclo-cross bikes have a slightly higher bottom bracket and shorter wheelbase than road bikes, making them more agile and easier to maneuver through tight corners and obstacles.

Wider tire clearance: They’re designed to fit wider, knobby tires that grip mud, grass, sand, and loose dirt; essential for traction on ‘cross courses.

Durability for harsh conditions: Cyclo-cross bikes are built to withstand mud, rain, and rough handling. They often feature reinforced frames and components that can take the abuse of repeated dismounts and remounts.

Efficient braking systems: Modern ‘cross bikes use disc brakes, which provide reliable stopping power in wet and muddy conditions, something rim brakes struggle with.

Lightweight for carrying: Courses often require riders to shoulder their bikes over barriers or up steep hills. Cyclo-cross frames are designed to be light and easy to carry.

Better handling on obstacles: The geometry and tire setup make it easier to hop barriers, ride through sand pits, and descend slippery slopes with confidence.

Versatility beyond racing: Even outside of races, a ‘cross bike doubles as a commuter, gravel bike, or winter trainer. It’s one of the most versatile bike types you can own.

Now that you’ve been convinced that cyclo-cross is for you, let’s take a look at Handsling’s CEXevo. 

The CEXevo is tough, light and durable, ideal for coping with the rigours of cyclocross racing. Designed in-house, the CEXevo frame is an evolution of the championship winning CEX. Improvements include higher grade carbon and changes to the layup used in both headtube and bottom bracket shell, resulting in a laterally stiffer frame while maintaining comfort levels. And thanks to Handsling’s custom options, you can create a bike that is truly yours.