NEW TO THE SPORT OF CYCLOCROSS?

Cyclocross is celebrated for its supportive and welcoming community, and Manitoba is no exception! As a hybrid form of road cycling and racing, cyclocross (often abbreviated as CX) combines elements of road biking with off-road challenges, distinct from mountain biking. Cyclocross bikes resemble traditional road bikes but feature a longer wheelbase, higher bottom-bracket for better clearance over obstacles, and treaded tires for unpaved roads and rough trails.

The sport typically takes place in autumn and winter, with races involving multiple laps of a short course that includes pavement, wooded trails, grass, steep hills, and obstacles. Riders often need to dismount, carry their bike over obstacles, and remount quickly. It’s an excellent sport for beginners due to its friendly atmosphere and focus on fun. The lively spectator culture, complete with cheering and cowbells, adds to the excitement.

Remember, perfection isn’t the goal—cyclocross is all about enjoying yourself, learning, and embracing a bit of mud.

While an MCA race license is not required to compete in cyclocross events, becoming an MCA member and joining a club offers many benefits, including valuable advice, training tips, and race day support. If participants do not have an MCA Race License, they must purchase a single-event day permit

Single-event day permits are available for new participants, but they DO NOT include Sport Accident insurance. This means that, in the event of an injury, you would only have your provincial health care coverage and no additional support for extra costs that may occur (for example: extended physical therapy). In contrast, a Provincial or UCI race license includes Sport Accident Insurance and General Liability Insurance, providing extra protection and coverage for additional expenses.

Each person can purchase up to 3 single-event day permits per year. If you reach this limit, you can upgrade to a Provincial or UCI race license by submitting your receipts to the MCA.

COST OF A DAY PERMIT 
Adult: $20 | U17: $10 | U13: $5

COST OF A PROVINCIAL RACE LICENSE OR UCI RACE LICENSE
Provincial or UCI race license, visit: https://ccnbikes.com/#!/memberships/manitoba-cycling-association-2024-annual-license-membership.

 

For a successful cyclocross experience, having the right equipment is essential. Here’s a quick guide to what you’ll need:

  1. Bike: While a dedicated cyclocross bike is ideal, mountain bikes can also work. Cyclocross bikes are similar to road bikes but feature knobby tires, a more relaxed geometry for stability, and cantilever or disc brakes for better control in muddy conditions.

  2. Tires: Cyclocross tires are wider with tread patterns designed to provide grip on various surfaces like mud and loose dirt.

  3. Pedals: Clipless pedals and shoes with cleats, similar to those used in mountain biking, are commonly used. They facilitate easier running when you need to dismount.

  4. Helmets: Bike helmets are mandatory for all participants—no exceptions.

  5. Clothing: Dress in layers to adapt to the often cold and wet conditions of cyclocross races. A base layer, jersey, and lightweight jacket are recommended, but be prepared for sunny and warm spells as well.

  6. Gloves: Full-finger gloves offer both protection and warmth during your race.
 

Race Format: Cyclocross races are generally organized into a set number of laps, with the winner being the first to complete the most laps within the designated time. Races typically start with a sprint to secure a good position before entering the first technical section. Some races allow pit stops where you can switch bikes if yours becomes too muddy or if you encounter mechanical issues.

Duration: Races usually last between 30 minutes and 1 hour. The circuit features a mix of surfaces, including dirt, grass, sand, mud, and pavement.

Course: Courses are typically 2.5 to 3.5 kilometers long and include obstacles such as barriers or steep hills that require riders to dismount and carry their bikes.

Cyclocross is all about fun, challenges, and embracing the elements. To help you get the most out of your rides and races, here’s a guide to the key skills and training tips that will make your cyclocross experience both enjoyable and rewarding:

Key Skills:

a. Mounting and Dismounting: Mastering the art of hopping on and off your bike smoothly to tackle obstacles is a must-have skill.

b. Cornering: With plenty of twists and turns on the course, learning how to navigate sharp corners on slippery surfaces will make your ride more thrilling.

c. Running with Bike: When you hit those steep hills or barriers, being able to carry your bike effectively, whether it’s a “shoulder carry” or “suitcase carry,” will come in handy.

Training:

a. Interval Training: Get ready to challenge your fitness with interval training, which mimics the fun, fast-paced nature of a cyclocross race.

b. Bike Handling: Sharpen your skills by practicing on loose surfaces, tight corners, and perfecting your mounts and dismounts.

c. Strength and Endurance: Build your strength with off-bike exercises like running on varied terrain and boost your endurance with longer rides to keep up with the fun.

Before you hit the starting line, there are a few key things to take care of to ensure a smooth and enjoyable race day. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

a. Race License or Single-Event Day Permit: To race, you’ll need either a race license or a single-event day permit. If you’re racing within Manitoba, you’ll require a Provincial or Manitoba race license. Purchase your Race License online here: Race License Purchase. Everyone starts in Category C (beginner), and you’ll need to show proof of your race license at the registration desk. If you’re just testing the waters, you can opt for a single-event day permit, which is available during online event registration.

b. Pre-Register: Be sure to pre-register for the race. Event details and registration can be found here: Event Registration. Note that all events have registration deadlines, and not all races accept walk-ups on race day. Late entries typically incur higher fees.

c. Review the Race Technical Guide: Check out the Race Technical Guide for important information and event timelines.

d. Bring Your Race Numbers: If you have cloth race numbers, remember to bring them along with some pins to attach them to your jersey. If you don’t have numbers yet, they will be assigned to you at the registration desk (1 body number + 2 arm numbers).

e. Pack Extra Supplies: Bring along extra water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.

f. Bike Check: Ensure your bike is in good working order before race day.

When race day arrives, a bit of preparation can make all the difference. Here are some helpful tips to ensure you’re ready for a great race:

a. Find Registration: Upon arriving at the venue, look for the “registration” area, which could be a tent outside or an indoor location depending on the venue.

b. Race License: At registration, you’ll need to present your race license. Keep a digital copy on your phone or bring a printed version. You should have received a copy via email from CCNbikes.com.

c. Race Numbers: Cloth race numbers will be assigned by officials and volunteers at the registration desk. They will guide you on how to pin the numbers to your jersey.

d. Course Review: Check the technical guide for the schedule to pre-ride the course. Taking a lap before the race helps you get familiar with challenging sections and find the best lines.

e. Bike Prep: Ensure your bike is race-ready by checking that your tires are properly inflated, your brakes are working, and your drivetrain is clean.

f. Warm-Up: Allocate time for a proper warm-up to get your muscles ready and your mind focused before the race begins.

If you have more questions about Cyclocross feel free to reach out – we are here to help! Contact: 

Cyclocross Director/Committee Coordinator: 
Brad Gauthier
cx.mbcycling@gmail.com

Manitoba Cycling Association
Penny Seier
cycling@sportmanitoba.ca