Originally Posted by
WestTx28
I read some about the cyclocross bikes and browsed some of the threads in that section of this forum. They look intimidating as hell. I didn't know if they would be suitable for my situation and a first bike. But this is the kind of advice I’m looking for. Any specific one you would recommend?
Just before this reply I was looking at the Trek 8.5 DS. Looks like they call it a dual sport bike. Any opinions on that?
I like cyclocross bikes but make do with '80s 12 speed bikes. I never tried a modern cyclocrosser. The older, lower end road bikes came with wider rims and tires than today's road bikes, almost hybrid or cyclocross size. The brakes aren't as strong as cantilevers but I don't ride in mud. It destroys the hilly trails and is discouraged in my area. The only advantage to a new cyclocrosser for me would be the shift/brake levers which let you shift without releasing the handlebar, and are much more comfortable to grasp from the top of the bar.
I have a hardtail mtb but I find that unless the riding really demands 54mm wide knobbies, it can feel a bit slower than other bikes. It's a personal choice. On trails, a more efficient, narrower tire is better most of the time although you have to corner a bit more carefully.