Perhaps you’ve seen riders carrying their bikes over barriers, tackling grassy corners or crossing the finish line covered in mud. That’s cyclo-cross, often shortened to CX.
You might already enjoy road riding, gravel or mountain biking, or be curious about trying a different discipline. Cyclo-cross brings elements of each into a short circuit, with plenty to learn and a new challenge on every lap.
What is cyclo-cross?
Cyclo-cross is a form of bike racing on a closed circuit that combines riding with sections where you dismount and run or carry your bike.
A course might include grass, dirt, sand, paved paths and steep banks, with corners and obstacles breaking up the rhythm. Barriers, steps or a steep slope can mean getting off the bike is the quickest way through.
The challenge is to keep moving.
Oliver Grande racing at the 2026 UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships in Hulst. (Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com)
How does a cyclo-cross race work?
Riders generally start together and race repeated laps of the circuit. Races have a target duration, with the final lap count determined during the race. Once that is set, riders race to the finish.
Race length varies by category and event. Elite races can last around an hour, while junior and other categories often have shorter races.
Although CX usually takes place in autumn and winter, it doesn’t always mean mud and rain. Races can take place on dry, grassy or dusty courses too. The terrain and conditions help make each event different.
Do you need a cyclo-cross bike?
Not necessarily for your first event.
A dedicated cyclo-cross bike looks similar to a road bike, with drop handlebars, tyres with tread for grip and clearance around the tyres for mud.
Some Australian events also offer Open or other categories that allow different bikes, including mountain bikes or gravel bikes. That could give you a way to try CX on a bike you already own.
Bike rules vary between events and categories, so check the listing before entering. If you’re unsure, tell the organiser what bike you have and ask which race would suit.
How to get started in cyclo-cross?
Find an event near you
The AusCycling Cyclo-cross Calendar arrives on November 10. Look for a local event, read the category descriptions for beginner, Open or graded racing options, and get in touch with the organiser if you need help choosing.
Connect with a club
A local cycling club can help you meet other CX riders, find places to practise and understand what happens on race day.
Watching a race is another way to get familiar with the sport. You’ll see how riders handle the course, where they get off their bikes and how the different races run.
Practise a few basic skills
You don’t need to master every technique before your first race. Start somewhere suitable, away from traffic, and build confidence with:
- Braking and cornering on grass or loose surfaces.
- Getting off your bike and back on at a controlled speed.
- Walking or jogging beside your bike.
- Lifting your bike over a small obstacle.
Get your bike and kit ready
Bring a bike in good working order that meets your category’s requirements, a cycling helmet and comfortable riding clothing.
Because CX can involve running, choose footwear you can move in comfortably. If you currently use clip-in pedals, consider mountain bike-style shoes with tread rather than road cycling shoes.
Pack water, something warm for before and after your race, and a change of clothes if the forecast looks wet.
Hayden Vimpani racing at the 2026 UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships in Hulst. (Mathew Wells/SWpix.com)
Check membership and enter
Check the event’s membership requirements, entry deadline and race schedule. Explore the current AusCycling membership options if you need to join or update your membership.
What should you aim for in your first race?
Give yourself a goal you can enjoy working towards; completing the race, riding a tricky section with more confidence or getting smoother each lap.
You may find some sections easier to run than ride, and that’s part of cyclo-cross. Your first event is an opportunity to learn how the course feels, meet other riders and discover what you’d like to improve next time.
Find your first cyclo-cross event
A local race gives you a date to work towards and a chance to experience CX for yourself. Explore the calendar, find an event that interests you and take your first step towards the start line.