For those with a passing interest in cyclocross, there are some changes for 2010/11.

Skinnier Tires:

33c is the maximum width for a tire.  For most of us, there’s no change because the calculation they use to get to 33c isn’t what’s printed on the side of the tire.  It looks like the average 35c meets the 33c limit.

Disc Brakes are Allowed:

This isn’t a big change for a competitive cyclocross racer. Disc brakes on a ‘cross bike aren’t a big advantage.

-They are heavy.  Even if they come up with a compact model, many generations away, they are really heavy.

-Braking power is relative.  ‘Cross bikes are not suspended mountain bikes.  A ‘cross racer’s speed is very limited by the lack of suspension, skinny tires, and intentionally smooth courses.   These limitations eliminate the need for huge braking power.  To put it another way, there isn’t a slope of head-sized rocks to traverse while flying down a steep section on a UCI/USAC cyclocross course.

I’m working against the bicycle industry on this one because 2012 ‘cross bikes will be made with disc brake capabilities and ‘cantilevers are dead!’ be shouted from the rooftops.

A Word of Caution

In almost every race/ride, you will be slower using a ‘cross bike with disc brakes.  They are a great deal heavier than cantilevers.  You have to compensate for that weight penalty by working much harder than your cantilevered riding partners.  There are no physics that make disc brakes better in most conditions. ‘Cross is still a Watts test on relatively smooth ground.

The greatest fear I have is the old problem of the front quick release skewer loosening with disc brakes.  Unless they mount the caliper on front, this could get ugly.  The other problem is the earliest designs that make it into production will have mechanical flaws that will only be obvious after mechanical failure. (aka crash)

Reality Check

Most of you reading this will ignore it and buy a ‘cross bike with disc brakes in 2012.  Some of you will spend lots of money just to have it for 2010/11.   What’s worse, many sponsored pros will be riding with disc brakes because their sponsor will require it.  You’ve been warned that there are no extra benefits to disc brakes on ‘cross bikes.

Like prior cycling subcultures, they’ll over-promise disc brakes as the new hotness that makes cycling better and therefore drive away more cycling consumers.

2010/11

I’m still looking forward to increased popularity for cyclocross in the U.S.  It’s a great sport and fun to watch too.