Its getting colder, damper and, well, a bit grim outside. That can only mean one thing... Time to ride circles in the mud round a squalid field till, exhausted you fall off. Hopefully past the finishing line.
Yup Cyclecross season is here!
For a good intro to this slightly sado-masochistic entry to a sport that is already chock full of self harmers checkout the Crosstube website for a good selection of videos.
There are some very good reasons why Cyclocross is getting more and more popular each year. For a start its the perfect way to keep fit in the off season. Then there's the fun (seriously). The mass start and more party atmos at the events means that even if you've finished 50th, you've enjoyed beating 51st. Getting a real sense of achievement as you finish and winning your own personal battles.
For those looking to get into this sport, the best place to start is the British Cycling website. If you're looking for a bike; the Kona Jake the Snake, Giant TCX or the Specialized Tricross are some of the best around at the moment.
Photo courtesy of North West Cyclocross Association
