Posts in category Issue 8

Williams has brought to market a cyclocross specific tubular wheel set that is a strong performer yet durable enough for even the most aggressive Clydesdale. The wheels are built with stout 14 straight gauge spokes: 2-cross lacing on the front and 3-cross on the rear. The semi-aero, aluminum rim is robust, benefiting from a simple tubular cross section. The rims are completed with a brilliant white paint scheme, and their `cross-specific pedigree is emphasized by bold decals.

It’s a popular belief that if you can upgrade only one part on your bike, it should be your wheels. There are a lot of good reasons behind this, as wheels have a profound impact on predictable handling, braking, acceleration and even coasting. In cyclocross use, we’d argue that most of these variables are exaggerated when compared to road cycling and that upgrading to a new set of wheels for cyclocross is even more justified.

Cyclocross Wheel Review: Zipp 303 Carbon Tubular Wheelset

Rolf Prima VCX Cyclocross Clincher Wheelset Review

The Ibis Hakkalugi disappeared, went on a crash diet, got a new wardrobe, but is still waiting for your next cyclocross adventure. The two standout features of the bike have got to be the handjob rear cable hanger and “Phlegmish” paintjob. Ibis shows its mountain bike heritage in the frame’s geometry, with a slightly sloping top tube, bottom bracket a bit on the higher side (6.2cm drop) and slacker angles (71.5 head angle, 72 degree seat angle on our 55cm test bike).

Kona gets single-minded with the scandium Major One. The Major One singlespeed cyclocross bike, at $1099 retail, is a capable allaround workhorse of a bike and a great way to try the fun of singlespeeding.

Redline shows off its cyclocross expertise with a race-ready spec on the aluminum Conquest Team.

Even if the proliferation of UCI races here in the States may have had a trickle-down effect in reducing the number of high-speed dismounts at …