Cross-n-Brats
WHEN: November 2 -- 3:00 pm
WHERE: TBD (I'll release details soon)
WHAT: A "training ride" in the style of cyclo-cross. While technically not a race, it is intended to simulate race conditions with a decidedly relaxed flavor. We're more interested in having a good time than in posting the fastest time.
But what the heck is cyclo-cross? Wikipedia does a good job, we'll start with their answer:
Cyclo-cross (sometimes cyclocross, CX, cyclo-X or 'cross) is a form of bicycle racing. Races take place typically in the autumn and winter (the international or "World Cup" season is September-January), and consists of many laps of a short (2.5–3.5 km or 1.5–2 mile) course featuring pavement, wooded trails, grass, steep hills and obstacles requiring the rider to quickly dismount, carry the bike whilst navigating the obstruction and remount in one motion.[1][2] Races for senior categories are generally between 30 minutes and an hour long, with the distance varying depending on the ground conditions. The sport is strongest in the traditional road cycling countries such as Belgium (and Flanders in particular), The Netherlands and the Czech Republic .
Just for kicks, you should also check out some of the cyclo-cross instructional videos on VeloNews.
But what kind of bike should I use? Basically, whatever works for you. There are dedicated cross bikes that are available, however, you can also modify your road bike to do the job as well. Fit some wider "cross-type" tires on your bike and your pretty much set. Of course, you can also use your mountain bike, too. Whatever you do, please make sure there are not any bar extensions on whatever you ride.
What kind of course will this be on? I'll post course details, maps, etc. in a few days. Generally speaking though, expect the course to be between 1 and 1.5 miles in length. There will be a mix of terrain to include grass, pavement, existing trails, and a few obstacles to make things interesting. It definitely won't be a mountain bike type course (cyclo-cross is not primarily about technical riding skills), but don't expect a paved bike trail, either. Basically, imagine a city park type setting and recall the days when you would play follow the leader on your bike. You get the idea . . .
SCHEDULE:
2:30 Course Opens -- pre-ride, warm-up, whatever
3:00 Citizen's Category -- 20 minutes; top 3 female and top 3 male riders recognized
3:40 Team Time Trial -- Create a team of three riders to post the fastest lap time (time will be taken on the third rider to cross the line).
4:00 Open Category -- 40 minutes; top 3 female and top 3 male riders recognized
4:45 Brats, Baby -- We'll throw some bratwurst on the grill and have some 'kraut and other fixin's ready