new to cyclocross

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Permalink Reply by aaron harper on August 8, 2011 at 12:52pm

Thanks for the advice.  For now I have a Dawes frame.  Not the best but it will get me started.  I got the tires on and they are a little tight fitting but they dont rub. 

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Permalink Reply by aaron harper on August 8, 2011 at 1:05pm

It is still geared but I am thinking of making it a single speed just so there is a few less things to worry about.

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Permalink Reply by Hamilton on August 8, 2011 at 12:55pm

If you can get to a cyclocross clinic that will help a lot. I know it helped me to feel a lot more confident in my first race. Other than that, just try to get out and ride some trails, grass, gravel, etc., so that it's not an unfamiliar sensation when racing at high speed on skinny off road tires. Most of all, remember to have fun.

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Permalink Reply by Brian Staby on August 8, 2011 at 6:21pm

I highly recommend a clinic.  They are informative and fun...at the same time.  CX Magazine just posted some clinics in their calendar of events.  Check it out and find a clinic in your neighborhood.

 

Brian

CX Nation

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Permalink Reply by J.D. Kimple on August 12, 2011 at 4:23am

In addition to all the recommendations to do a clinic, I'd say just get out there and do it! It's a great time and of al the race scenes, I think 'cross is the easiest to get into. The racers and promoters are generally very helpful and encouraged by first timers and the spectators (usually other racers) are very supportive.

With your current bike you mention the tires fit but it's a bit close. You'll want to be careful of this because if you hit a rock or root and it knocks the rim a tick out of true you cold end up with some tire rub. Not to scare you, just to make you aware. The method you are pursuing is a common one (converting an old road bike) and as Oliver has mentioned, if you've been riding geared up until now, I'd stay with that for your first foray into 'cross.

 

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