Clifton CC

Hi Guys

I am just in the process of getting my first cyclocross bike (Giant TCX SLR2), I have in the past raced X Country MTB so I'm not too bad riding off road/x country and i can keep a decent pace on a road bike (the sat morn training rides etc). But i really fancy a crack at cyclocross the only draw back is I have no real idea about training routes around York that are suitable for a cyclocross bike, what type of skills I should be developing i.e. crossing obstacles, mounting and dismounting whilst running (the list goes on i guess)

So if there is any one in the club that would be willing to share some knowledge or a few routes so i can build up my training i would be most grateful. And if that could stretch to even helping me find my first few events then that would be even better (something that would suit a 40yr old without breaking too many bones!).

A lot to ask I know but any pointers would be most grateful accepted

Lee

Hi Lee,

I take it from your post that you are wanting to develop your cyclocross skills with a view to race, if this is the case then a little imagination is all thats needed. Key skills are cornering, riding off camber grass, dismounting/ remounting and bunny hops although most organisers make their hurdles as tall as regulations will allow them in which case dismounting is the safer bet.

Also for people new to cyclocross I would recommend searching Youtube for cross junkie, Alan Dorrington Planet X team rider has posted some tutorial "how to" clips on there which look at different aspects of cyclocross skills with examples of how to practice/ master them.

With regards places to ride, I would recomended the university campus, the Knavesmire and the area to the rear of the old Clifton hospital. I like to use bankings to practice on, steep ones for developing climbing/descending skills and practising run ups both carrying and pushing the bike. Cornering can be practised anywhere, when possible try different surfaces ie hard packed soil, hard ground with a greasy surface and also muddy/ claggy soil.

I hope this gives you an insight, just get out there and explore and most importantly have fun.

Andy

Hi Lee

If you get the chance to call into the shop we can give you as much info as you'd like regarding cross. We all race it and love it.. Regards Fraz

Hello,
If you go on the Yorkshire Cyclocross Association website you will find all the dates you will need for races. They run a Summer series on a Wednesday evening which are a good starting point, 40 mins and a very mixed ability of riders. My son Brandon will be riding as many as exams will allow so if you see us please come over and introduce yourself.

Hope to see you