Cyclocross - Cross bike setup - specifically saddle height

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simonaway427
10-03-11, 07:20 AM
This weekend is my first cross race and I'm trying to nail down the setup of my bike. Right now I have it so my saddle height and reach is identical to my road bike. However I've read that one typically runs about 1 cm lower saddle height to help with mounts/dismounts.

Thoughts?

GrayJay
10-03-11, 05:29 PM
One of the better writeups for CX positioning written by an experienced racer is here;
http://www.cycle-smart.com/articles/secret-set-part-1-dialing-your-cyclo-cross-bike
canflyboy
10-03-11, 06:49 PM
Great article above, I found that 5mm works best for me - not so much for mounts and dismounts but for absorbing the various terrain. Being your first cross race, a 1cm saddle difference will be the least of your concerns. Lower the seat slightly and go out and have fun. After a few races, you'll know better if you need to raise or lower your seat.

Canflyboy

GrayJay
10-12-11, 03:41 PM
Another good arcticle I found covering CX positioning and equipment choice is;
http://www.madcross.org/JPE_Cyclocross_Bike_Tips.pdf
fietsbob
10-13-11, 12:14 PM
Simon Burney's Cyclocross book is in it's third edition..
he has coached the top UK racers for years,
so includes physical training exercises for the Racer fitness, too..