Cyclocross is a form of cycle sport traditionally undertaken in the winter months. It's profile in the region rose in 2014, as Milton Keynes hosted a World Cup cyclocross round. Dave Goodhew races cyclocross during the winter, and has submitted 10 reasons to ride cross. 2014-15 was his first season, and he was really learning as he went!

1. It is a race but drafting is not part of it so your race isn’t over if dropped like in crit and road races. So have a mini battle every race to gain places or not loose places.
2. This is for all abilities, often one third of the field will lap the other riders.
3. It starts at 2pm for senior races, you can lie in.
4. The central league races have all been fairly close to MK, two races have been at the bowl.
5. This is an hour at threshold pace; this will keep fitness over winter months.
6. You are never cold because you are at threshold heart rate.
7. You will crash and will have to crash to learn the limits. Most crashes are slow speed onto mud so much less risky than other forms of racing.
8. You will gain skills, from riding to bike maintenance you will become more excellent.
9. You can buy another bike, club cyclists like buying bikes. Please note I bought a second hand frame from eBay and used old road bike parts. Looking after your bike and using good tyres is probably the most important.
10. It is fun and a relaxed atmosphere

More information at the British Cycling website.

See also the central cyclocross league website for details of cyclocross events.

Reports on 2015-16 Cyclocross events

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