Cyclo-cross is a winter sport. It is practiced from October to the end of February. This sport is gaining more and more followers worldwide. Many road cyclists and mountain bikers practice it to prepare the summer season. But don’t be mistaken. Cyclo-cross also attracts true specialists
The art of mastering obstacles and conquering intense cyclo-cross circuits
How does a cyclo-cross race take place ?
In a cyclo-cross race, cyclists are positioned on a starting grid, with eight riders per row. They are placed according to their level (world ranking or specific classifications). A cyclo-cross race lasts between 20 minutes and 1 hour, depending on the category. Each participant completes laps on a circuit approximately 3 kilometers long. The number of laps varies based on the riders’ level and is adjusted in real-time according to the race’s speed. This means the race will end once the lap started at the end of the allotted time is completed.
Riders face all kinds of challenges. Tight turns, steep climbs, sharp descents, off-camber sections, and sandy stretches. Some parts of the course require them to dismount and run while carrying their bikes. These running sections are strategically placed to add extra difficulty. This way, the riders’ endurance is put to the test in short and intense race formats.
Obstacles are numerous and spread throughout the course. Cyclists face :
- stairs, which they must climb while carrying their bikes ;
- planks, which must be jumped over either on the bike or on foot ;
- deep sand sections that slow their progress.
To succeed and achieve good results, riders need speed and the ability to master these obstacles.
Blending energy and festivity, cyclo-cross captivates the world
Today, cyclo-cross is loved around the world. From the United States to Asia, cycling enthusiasts have embraced this captivating sport. It attracts riders of all levels, from professionals to amateurs. Cyclo-cross offers dynamic and demanding races. Riders’ technical skills, endurance, and determination are put to the test. Each year, local, regional, national, and international events are organized.
Cyclo-cross is also a popular discipline. Every race is a unique spectacle. Experience a festive atmosphere, unmatched proximity, and tightly contested races. Cyclo-cross events draw an enthusiastic crowd. It brings together a passionate community that immerses you in a captivating sport.
The best French athletes in cyclo-cross are :
- Clément Venturini ;
- Pauline Ferrand-Prévot ;
- Joshua Dubau ;
- Léo Bisiaux ;
- Hélène Clauzel ;
- Aubin Sparfel ;
- Célia Géry.
At the international level, the riders known as the “3 Giants” are :
- Mathieu Van Der Poel (NED) ;
- Wout Van Aert (BEL) ;
- Tom Pidcock (GB).
Indeed, Belgium and the Netherlands are full of specialists. To name just a few :
- Eli Iserbyt ;
- Michael Vanthourenhout ;
- Laurens Sweeck ;
- Lucinda Brand ;
- Puck Pieterse ;
- Fem Van Empel ;
- Ceylin del Carmen Alvarado ;
- Thibau Nys (2024 European Champion).
