What makes a cyclocross bike different from a road bike?

26-07-21 | Simon

The fundamental difference between a cyclocross bike and a road bike is in the tyre clearance and brake design. As cyclocross bikes are designed for racing over a course that can consist of mud and grass then they are designed to fit suitable treaded tyres of up to 35mm in width - more modern designs can fit even wider tyres. Cyclocross bikes are then fitted with either disc brakes or wider cantilever style rim brakes in order to provide the clearances needed for using wider tyres. There might also be a few subtle differences in frame geometry in order to make a cyclocross bike handle better off-road. Gearing will also be slightly easier than that found on a road bike. In general a cyclocross bike will share most of the remaining features with road bikes including drivetrain, handlebars and wheel size.