With the proliferation of cross bikes has spread a lot of mythical information about their capabilities. Here are the main ones:
- Hybrid can not withstand riding on bumps, bumps, jumping from curbs, etc. This is not true – to overcome small obstacles they are quite able to, this is what they are designed for. If you ride a cross bike only on the asphalt, in its acquisition makes no sense.
- Cross bike can not move with the load. Although the bike has a lightweight design, it is able to carry a load of about 100 kg. However, it is still not recommended to ride it with a passenger.
- Cross machine can be converted into a mountain bike, replacing the tires and a shock-absorbed fork. Perhaps some mountain bike characteristics will appear, but the frame will remain adapted to the average style of riding, and he still will not become a full mountain bike.
- There is no difference between the passability of the wheels in 26 and 28 inches. This difference is not very noticeable when riding on rough roads, but on the asphalt becomes appreciable because of the size of the tire.
The benefits of cyclocross
For many enthusiasts, cyclocross is a lot of fun. They enjoy racing through mud and leaves, skirting tree roots, bouncing on bumps and skidding down hills.
In addition to the extreme pleasure, cycling cross-country has other advantages:
- The ability to work the large muscle groups of the body, arms and legs well. Riding on a road bike, this level of stress you will not get, even with a long ride.
- Acquisition of skills in controlling the bike at the professional level. This is understandable: it is impossible to imagine a more complicated race than cyclocross. The acquired skills will not interfere in normal journeys, because no “emergency” situations will not be afraid of any more.
- The cyclocross lessons do not depend on the weather and road surface. The worse they are, the better for riding. In this case, a couple of hours can replace a long workout in the gym.
- Cross-country cycling is a great way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the forest or field scenery. It is the special emotional mood created by cyclocross that has made this sport so popular.