PDA

View Full Version : cyclocross instead of mountain biking




cianwoods
10-27-06, 04:33 PM
I just purchased cyclocross bike built up with mountain bike componants and a flat bar.I intend to use it on the same trails as where I mountain bike, should I be concerned about damaging my frame and fork on the single track, it's rough in spots but I seldom leave the ground on my mountain bike.
sfcrossrider
10-27-06, 05:06 PM
I used my my cross bike in a NORBA race last year (had 700 by 45's on it). I think you'll be just fine.
slagjumper
10-30-06, 10:02 AM
What kind of a bike is it? Some manufacturers have better Frame guarantees than others. I often use my Salsa Las Cruces on single track. Recently PTAG and Dirt Rag and others built a wicked trail in Frick Park with banked turns, off camber turns, jumps, 18” wide wood bridges, and see-saws. The SLC handles it pretty well, with the following issues—

1) Look out for steep angled jumps or heading down into a steep angle dirt mound. Seems like you could snap a fork on something like this if you hit too hard.

2) I have flown the SLC about 8 feet. Not a whooping jump distance. I’d avoid going to heavy on the aerial maneuvers.
damocles1
10-31-06, 06:52 AM
My Salsa Las Cruces is pretty much all I ride in the woods around here. I beat the dog out of that thing and have never worried about it breaking.

700x40 on front and 700x38 on rear...
seat_boy
10-31-06, 03:34 PM
I think the bigger worry will be your wheels. Depending on how big a tire you can fit, and what kind of lines you take, they may see quite a bit of stress. I've got a nice flat spot on my Gunnar Crosshair's front rim after taking it singletracking (admittedly, with 28mm road tires)

Eric
slagjumper
11-05-06, 08:23 PM
I think the bigger worry will be your wheels. Depending on how big a tire you can fit, and what kind of lines you take, they may see quite a bit of stress. I've got a nice flat spot on my Gunnar Crosshair's front rim after taking it singletracking (admittedly, with 28mm road tires)

Eric
Good point. Who really knows what is under all of those pretty leaves. I use 32s in the front and a 45 in the back. A good rock or root could do some wheel damage.