Those racing in the A and B races (Cat 1/2 and 3 categories) are required to ride a regulation cross bike. This means you must have a drop-bar bike with tires that do not exceed 33 mm in width for 700cc wheels.

With the popularity of gravel bikes, which come with wider rims, we are aware that a tire that has 33mm printed on the side might mount and measure wider than 33mm. For this reason, we will be applying the “Spirit of the Rule” when measuring. If your tires say 33mm on the side but measure wider than 33, that will be fine. But for tires that are listed as being 35, 38, 42 or wider, race officials will make a note of this during pre-race inspection.

It is important to note that you will be allowed to race with tires that are wider than regulation. We don’t want to stop people from participating in the sport we all love; however, after a first warning, racers whose tires are not compliant will not receive any points from a race, will not be allowed to podium if they finish in the top 3, and will start at the back of the field for each race they use tires outside of the regulations.   

Cyclocross is a bicycle racing discipline held in the fall months (winter in Europe). In Manitoba, races are typically held in parks and feature a variety of surfaces: grass, paths, dirt, gravel, mud, sand, and pavement. Racers complete laps on a closed course, competing against each other for finishing positions.

With categories for riders of all ages and experience levels and courses ranging from 2.5 to 3 km, cyclocross is one of the most enjoyable disciplines for both racers and fans. The sport combines the speed of road cycling with the bike handling skills of mountain biking, making every race thrilling and dynamic.

Cyclocross races (sometimes called “cross” or “cx racing”) take place on mixed surfaces, including grass, dirt, gravel, mud, sand, and pavement. Fans can stand close to the taped course and cheer as riders navigate obstacles—dismounting to carry their bikes over barriers, up hills, up stairs, or through sand pits before remounting to continue racing. The first rider to cross the finish line is the winner. These challenges are what make cyclocross both fun and demanding.

If you’re new to cyclocross, interested in trying it, or just want to learn more about the sport, check out our Frequently Asked Questions PDF for all things cross—because Cross is Boss!

CHECK OUT OUR UPCOMING CROSS CLINICS

• Try Cyclocross Racing – Beginner Friendly Clinic (All Ages 7 Skill Levels)
• HopOn Cyclocross – Youth Clinic

For riders who have raced before and are looking for information on race categories or technical bike requirements, consult our Cyclocross Technical Guide.