Crosscheck for single track?
 

I have a Surly Cross Check that's setup as a singlespeed cyclocross bike. I will be doing my first race in about 2 weeks.

One thing I really enjoy doing is taking my cross check to the local trails but I have not tried anything too technical yet because I'm not sure if running a carbon Wound Up fork would be adequate for this. I've seen photos of single track races and it looks like a lot of fun, and I would eventually like to try it as the season comes. I was considering getting a Surly 1x1 built up, but I've been told that the Cross Check handles everything pretty well. What do you guys think? Could the cross check handle it or am I better off building something like a 1x1?

I really like riding my 'cross bike offroad. It is a blast, and I can ride virtually everything I can on the MTB. Just make sure to get you gearing right. You definitely don't want too much gear. Mine is geared, and I end up running in the 36/22 to 36/16 range most of the time when out on the trail.

I also have a Winwood carbon fork on mine, and it has held up to this abuse for close to 2 years now. It does have an alloy steerer, though. Your bike shouldn't break. Another tip is to get the biggest tires you can fit, maybe some 700x40 or so.

Why not ride the Cross Check for awhile and see if you like it? If it doesn't cut it, get a 1x1. i found my hands tend to get beat up running the 'cross bike offroad. I am also faster on the MTB since you are traction limited by the skinny cross tires.

I did short track on my cross bike a couple times. Probaly would have been faster on a hardtail for most courses, but I had a blast. Thecrosscheck can fit relaively fat rubber, so consider picking up a pair of Panaracer Fire Cross 700 x 45. Your bike should e able to fit 'em front and rear.

You may also want to gear down a bit, depending on the course.

Or just run what ya brung and have fun.

http://251.org/shared/bike/NewGunnar.jpg

Works fine. Bring spare tubes and a pump.

That picture made my day.

The Cross Check will handle anything you can. Those little tires need a lot of air pressure to avoid pinch flats, but you should be fine in any normal races. If you are planning on doing longer races and all day rides, you will be happier with a 1x1. 2.5" tires are your friend, although after my first six hour race I was almost tempted to buy a suspension fork.

Who are these people and why have glorified road bikes invaded the MTB forum?