slide13

It seems that most CX bikes come outfitted with a road groupo of some sort, but I'm looking at a Kelly Knobby X and it typically comes set up with a full mtn bike groupo (LX or XT). What are the advantages/disadvantages of running the mtb groupo versus a road groupo?

I currently have a road bike that I'm in the process of selling. Trying to decide what to get after I do (selling because I work at a bike shop and basically get a new bike every year) I can't afford a nice mtn bike and a nice road bike so I'm starting to think about just getting a cyclocross bike and using it for everything from mid length road rides, to commuting to riding the offroad trails in town. I could afford a cheaper road and mtn bike but after working in a bike shop for so long...well...I've become a bit of a bike snob and can't bring myself to buy something on the lower end.

khuon

MTB drivetrain components can generally handle a wider and lower range of gearing than RB components. Also. and someone will probably argue vehemently against me here but, I believe MTB components are more durable and reliable in "inclimate" conditions. My XTR front derailleur on my MTB is actually more sophisticated and shifts smoother, faster and better under load than my Dura-Ace on my RB. MTB style brakes can handle wider tyres and mud better than road brakes plus they're generally more powerful. Weight is less of a factour in MT and CX than in RR.

peloton

Khuon, I think the word you wanted was "inclement."

For brakes, you really don't have an option, you must use MTB style cantis, or v-brakes with a travel agent. I'm not sure I agree about the durability of MTB parts compared to their road cousins, however. The real advantages of MTB components are:

1. Wider gear range in the cassette, with the potential for really small gears, like 32t. I'm not sure this is much of an advantage, since in a cross race, you'd probably get up any hill that you'd need a 32t for faster by dismounting and running.

2. Top-pull front derailleur, but your frame must be designed to acommodate a top pull derailleur, and most aren't.

khuon

Right... my apologies.

I think in terms of riding constantly through muck and mud, wading/foraging rivers, etc... the MTB components hold up better.

Hunter

Yes MTB components will hold up to more abuse in harsher conditions than road components will. If not then MTB's would come with road components. In the beginning of mountain biking the people who started this sport also discovered this hence the creation of said components.

peloton

You really believe that? MTB components evolved to provide MTBers with specific functionality -- big cassette spreads, compact triple cranksets, 1 1/8" headsets, cantilever, u, vee and disk brakes -- and to create a differentiated product line for better marketing by the big component manufacturers.

I've been racing cyclo-cross bikes buillt up with Campy Chorus for several years now, without any problems. Those road components anre damned tough.