Origins of Cyclocross

[NateGroadie]

I know virtually nothing about Cyclocross except that it predates mountain biking by quite a bit.

Are there old magazines? Videos/films.

Any resources for this stuff?

Myself, I'm not interested in racing, but I would like to check out the history and then do some off road non-competetive riding.

-nate.

[seely]

From what I know of it, it started in the early 1900's as a way for roadies to train during the off season. I'd just start by looking up some of the national CX sites, I'm sure one would have some history and background on the sport.

Theres a short history at http://www.kisscross.com/

[flythebike]

I have heard it said that is was designed to simulate bike messerger duties in wartime, jumping over trenches, fences and the like. Circa WWI.

[oldskoolboarder]

I have heard it said that is was designed to simulate bike messerger duties in wartime, jumping over trenches, fences and the like. Circa WWI.

That sounds like a bike messenger's version of history...

[flythebike]

Well here is one version that is a corallary proof: http://members.aol.com/napavelo/filthyfun1.htm

[legalize_it]

i heard that it was started in the france/belgium area for road races to train in the winter. the running sections are in there to keep the feet warm, or to get through unrideable sections. to me the idea is run when its faster than riding, whether it be in a race or on the trails.