[lin_kieu]

I really love watching cyclocross when it's on T.V. and would like to give it a go. Could someone tell me the differences between a 'cross bike and a road bike? I want to get a road bike next month, so would it be feasable to outfit it for 'cross when the season comes, or should I just save up for two new bikes this year (perish the thought;))

[The BikeForums Team]

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[GIANTBIKES]

I'm no expert on the bikes but here is what I do know. The cyclocross for the most part has cantilever brakes. That type of brake allows you to run wider tires. The front fork also allows you to fit the same tire. The bottom bracket is a little taller for more clearance. Usually the bike is outfitted with mountain bike components. The biggest thing I see is the cables are on top of the top bar. This allows you to pick the bike up with your arm through it and run. Now I want you to see what "I" think is the best looking cyclocross.
http://www.bianchiusa.com/site/bikes/road/12_axis.html

[velocipedio]

Good questions.

The difference between a road bike and a cyclocross bike have been discussed before in this thread (http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?s=&threadid=9798) an in this thread (http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?s=&threadid=8257&highlight=cyclocross) .

In essence, a cyclocross bike is a very specialized road bike adapted to challenging off-road conditions. It is possible to ride a road bike off-road, but it would never be a true 'cross bike for a few reasons:

1. Few road bike frames give enough clearance for wide and knobby 'cross tires.

2. Few road bike frames are equipped with cantilever brakes, and can't normally be retrofitted without having modifications made to the frame.

3. Most road bikes have a more agressive geometry than a 'cross bike; you'd probably find one a bit sketchy off-road.

Your options would be to buy two bikes [not such a bad thing], to buy a cyclocross bike and use it on the road with skinny road tires [I have a friend who does that, and I sometimes use my 'cross bike on the road in bad weather], buy a touring bike and use it for 'cross in the winter [touring bikes are similar, in many respects, to cross bikes].

[RacerX]

Bianchi Axis?! It's a good cx bike but ultimate? Now this is the ULTIMATE cx bike--
http://www.cyclocrossworld.com/riders/riders_images/DSC00596.jpg Tight, right and outta sight!

[Rich]

Hmmmm, the Bonfire is a nice bike,

but I think for the bucks, the Morati Ti Cross gets my vote :D

[RacerX]

Aww c'mon, you know the Bonfire will burn that Ti up!:D

[GIANTBIKES]

Where can I get a Bonefire for $1190?

[velocipedio]

You can get a Bonfire Frame and fork at cyclocrossworld (http://www.cyclocrossworld.com/). The new matte black finish is very, very sweet...

Look at this... (http://store6.yimg.com/I/cyclocrossworld_1695_18139)

[lin_kieu]

Is anyone here from the southeast Michigan area? I'd love to get in touch with you.