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Step 1
Remove any additional accessories from your bike, including racks, reflectors, mirrors, bells, water bottles and cages, packs, bar-ends or lights.
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Step 2
Inspect the frame, fork and all components on the bike for cracks, or other signs of trouble. Repair or replace any obvious problems.
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Step 3
Consider replacing your suspension fork with a rigid fork.
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Step 4
Change your tires to the narrowest tire you can find, usually around a 1.5 inch, or 1.7 inch. Find tires with relatively small knobs to increase clearance on the frame and to reduce mud build up.
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Step 5
Remove the inner, "granny gear" and limit the front derailleur so that it won't shift down to it.
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Step 6
Choose a clipless pedal that functions well in the mud. TIME pedals and Eggbeaters from Crank Brothers are a popular choice. They both work well in mud, sand, snow and dust.
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Step 7
Lube the chain, derailleurs and cables. Cyclocross is usually a muddy sport, use lubricants that work well in wet conditions.
