Biker-cross is a bicycle race between four competitors on a track with a slight gradient and obstacles in the form of steep turns and jumps. This discipline, also called the 4X, was isolated from mountain biking and is quite young. But its spectacular and dynamic makes more and more people join the ranks of the fans. Biker cross is especially popular in Western countries, where it is called “4 cross.” In the United States, where its official name is “mountain cross”. The most famous competition in this sport is the “Biker Super Cross”, which involves six riders in one race on a very difficult track.
Biker cross and its rules
Before the competition, all participants undergo a registration procedure. Then the tournament begins, which includes several stages:
Qualifying (qualifying) – single races for time. Half of the declared number of riders, who showed the best results, pass to the semi-finals, from which the top four are formed.
Semifinals – directly biker-cross, by the results of which each of the four to the final pass two riders who came to the finish line first. There is a break after the semifinal heats. Those eliminated in the semifinals meet again after the semifinals, drawing between 5-8 places.
Finals – races between the four strongest bikers to determine the winner.
Before going to the start, the athletes are allowed to walk the track to look around and learn the particularly difficult areas. Only after that the real battle begins.
The race proceeds as follows. Four competitors perform a simultaneous start and move along the same track length of up to 250 meters. During the race, some contact between rivals is allowed, but it must be unintentional and not contrary to the principles of fair play. Failure to do so will result in a penalty. Nevertheless, this fact increases the attractiveness of the competitions and attracts spectators.
The main stages of the race are elimination races, each of which involves a group of four bikers. Arrangement is made in accordance with the standings in such a way that the strongest meet only in the final stage. The main task of each athlete – to come to the finish line first. Even if one of the riders fell off his or her bike in the course, the struggle between the remaining competitors continues.
Track
For the 4X events, the courses are wide enough for all four competitors to maneuver and overtake each other freely. Usually moderate slopes are used, with plenty of terrain obstacles in the form of natural elevations, ledges, embankments, downhills, ridges, turns, flat sections, etc. In the absence of such, they can be equipped with an artificial way. The only thing that should not be on the route are the climbs, because to overcome them athletes will have to pedal hard.
Biker-cross requires athletes to have good speed skills and an excellent reaction to changes in the track. The start is important, because it is easier for the one who has enough speed at once to hold the leading position until the finish. In addition, a good bike is important, one that is stiff and malleable and that meets certain technical specifications.
Bike for biker-cross
It is believed that the best option for competitions in the 4X format is a hardtail – a bike without a rear shock absorber (although on certain types of trails can be used and two-suspension units). This unit has a slightly smaller top tube, has shortened rear feathers, and a rigid fork that triggers only on particularly hard landings. Parts of cross country or cyclocross units (such as derailleurs and brakes) can be used in the design of the bike. But in general, its entire geometry is aimed at maximizing maneuverability and speed performance.
The bike’s stability is achieved by a large wheel spacing and a lowered center of gravity. Lightweight aluminum suspension, rolling tires and contact pedals are also important.
The total weight of the bike should not exceed 13 kg. On a lightweight bike is easier to overcome all the difficulties of the track, which abounds biker-cross. The same requirement applies to all kinds of attachments – it should not be light and at the same time shock resistant.