can cyclocross become most popular racing in america ?
 

Can cyclocross become the most popular type of bicycle racing in America ? It seems to me that in the last 2 years the number of participants in cross races have almost reached road criterium levels. From people I talk to some of the reasons for this are....

# 1 - Cross races dont require teams

# 2 - Atmosphere is much more laid back and welcoming of new riders.

# 3 - Cross bikes are generally cheaper

# 4 - Races are shorter

# 5 - Crashing wont kill or seriously injure you

I doubt it will become the most popular in the U.S.

I do love it for reasons #2 and #4. The scence is way more chill and I can be more competitive than road with the same amount of training hrs.

if people do it, they come back (see #2). Also, you don't get dropped in a cross race, so weekend warriors w/ a bit of a spare tire can do the cx equivalent of a crit, but don't get pulled after 2 laps. You can see progress from week to week, while staying with the pack is a big single hurdle to get over for RR. Also, you don't have to drive nearly as far as for most mtb races.

One problem I see, is the fitness aspect. Really fit road racers get pissy when beaten by someone less fit. therefore cross is "stupid". meh
I think it's there, but it's a matter of garnering interest.

If you read "cross threads" in other forums you'll see that there is very limited interest here. :(
Example: In the 50+ forum (don't roll your eyes) there are a few of us who post pics of rides and our bikes but no one seems to care. I guess the same is true for the general cycling population.

I've seen it grow tremendously since I started about 7 years ago. But the road events still take in the most participants. At the rate of growth though who knows. I'd also point out one more note in favour of cross, it is very family friendly.

Around here, the big cross series gets 1000 racers per week, which looks like about 4 to 5 times the turnout for crits. I know a lot of the people, myself included, who do cyclocross aren't really "racers" in the traditional sense but are just out there enjoying some fun competition. My personal goal for this year is to crack the top 75 in a field of 150 or so in a Masters C race.

So, yeah, I think it's possible.

you live in Oregon.

I cant believe that down here in the Los Angeles area we have so many cyclists and such low turnout for cross races. The weather is perfect and the courses are fun.
I guess pacific northwest people are just tougher and more down for action.

So you're saying the rest of the country isn't like Oregon? :eek:

Actually, it's the weather here that's perfect for cyclocross. You'd have to heavily water your courses to reproduce the experience we get up here. :thumb:

he's right. the one wet cx race I did might be the most fun I've ever had on a bike. My wife's mom lives near eugene and her dad and brother are in portland. I'm hoping to get up there and get schooled by some oregonians this fall.