How To

How to Convert a Cross-Country Mountain Bike Into a Cyclocross Bike

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(6 Ratings)

Cyclocross is a brutal, painful sport, and thousands of people love it! These simple tips will help you convert a hardtail mountain bike into a race ready cyclocross bike.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Remove any additional accessories from your bike, including racks, reflectors, mirrors, bells, water bottles and cages, packs, bar-ends or lights.

  2. 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.

  3. Step 3

    Consider replacing your suspension fork with a rigid fork.

  4. 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.

  5. Step 5

    Remove the inner, "granny gear" and limit the front derailleur so that it won't shift down to it.

  6. 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.

  7. Step 7

    Lube the chain, derailleurs and cables. Cyclocross is usually a muddy sport, use lubricants that work well in wet conditions.

Tips & Warnings
  • Almost no cyclcross bikes have front suspension, and if they do they have very short travel (maybe an inch). The courses don't really require them, and a rigid fork will lighten up the bike. Thanks to the ease of threadless headsets, swapping out a fork is easy enough to switch back and forth as needed.
  • If you are switching between a suspension fork and a rigid fork, make sure the rigid fork is suspension adjusted or your bike will not handle properly.
  • Be sure to perform a normal bike check to test the brakes, drivetrain and wheels. Maintain and prepare as you would for muddy mountain bike rides and races.
  • Cyclocross racing is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

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