SADDLE UP FOR CYCLO-CROSS 2023

Cyclists

3 min read

If you’re an avid cyclist, chances are you know what Cyclo-cross is, but for those who don’t Cyclo-cross is an off-road race that involves difficult terrain such as mud, sand, gravel and grass, as well as obstacles, and it takes place in local parks and open spaces.

Cyclo-cross is one of the most accessible events where people of all ages can take part and push themselves to the max.

Sound like fun? Find a Cyclo-cross location near you and swat up on how to prepare your bike.

Cyclo-cross event locations
Cyclo-cross takes place in the following locations:

•         Bradford

•         Bristol

•         Broxburn

•         Bury St Edmunds

•         Caerphilly

•         Cambridgeshire

•         Cheshire

•         Clanfield

•         Cornwall

•         Gloucestershire

•         Hampshire

•         Heather

•         Hertfordshire

•         Houghton Le Spring

•         Isle of Man

•         Kenilworth

•         Kent

•         Lancashire

•         Leicestershire

•         London

•         Milnthorpe

•         Norfolk

•         Scunthorpe

•         South Ayrshire

•         St Albans

•         Welwyn Garden City

•         West Stow

•         Wolverhampton

For more information about Cyclo-cross, visit: https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/cyclocross

How to prepare your bike for Cyclo-cross with GT85
Before you take off on your way to your local Cyclo-cross event, don’t forget to set up your bike. Here’s a few things you’ll want to do beforehand:

  • Check your saddle height – generally speaking, you should lower your seat around 5mm. As this is an off-road race, you will be riding through rough terrain, which means you will likely ride slightly out of your saddle

  • Stack height – think about the gap between your foot and the pedal axe and consider the thickness of the shoes you decide to wear for the race

  • Release tension – since Cyclo-cross is likely to be a muddy, you might find getting your foot in and out difficult, so it’s a good idea to back off the release tension to make sure you don’t get stuck

  • Handlebars – you might want to nudge your handlebars 1-2cm higher and 1cm closer to the saddle, this will make it easier to handle the bike and make it easier to use your drops

  •  Tyres – inspect your tyres to make sure they’re free from nicks and cuts, and make sure they’re properly inflated too.

How to clean your bike for Cyclo-cross with GT85

  • Clean the chain – grab a bucket of warm soapy water (washing up liquid will do) and a soft bristled-brush, and brush along the drivetrain and the chain ring but steer clear from the wheel hub bearings. Once dry, wipe down with a rag sprayed with GT85 to clean and lube.

  • Clean and check brake pads – spray GT85 on a rag and wipe away dust and dirt. If the brakes are looking worn, make sure you replace them.

  • Clean the cranks – remove your cranks and bottom bracket and wipe them down with a rag sprayed with GT85.

  • Clean the cables – fix the red precision nozzle to your can and spray GT85 on parts of the cable where it enters the housing. Work the brakes and gears to get the lube to move through the housing for added protection.

  • Wipe down and polish – once you’re done with the all-important bike parts, wipe the frame down with GT85 on a rag to lift any dirt and to leave a sweet-smelling shine.


More about GT85

Keep your bike clean, it’ll make your ride more efficient and keep you agile in the race.

We’ve got you covered – use GT85 to clean, lube and protect. Pick it up online from our Amazon store – it couldn’t be more convenient.