It’s the world’s fastest-growing segment, according to USA Cycling. Participation has more than tripled in the past seven years, and for good reason: the carnival-like vibe at races is family-friendly, and blasting around a short, obstacle-strewn course on a beefed-up road bike with knobby tires is a great workout — and fun as hell.
As the sport gains popularity, more and better cross bikes are hitting the market. These are our favorites.
— BY AARON GULLEY
BEST FOR: WINNING AT ALL COSTS—
MOOTS PSYCHLO X RSL
The Psychlo X RSL was released in 2011, and it’s still one of the best. The titanium chain— and seatstays are tapered for tire clearance, and a flattened top tube makes for comfortable shouldering.
Ours came quick, mid-depth Reynolds Assault wheels and an Enve carbon fork, one of the stiffest-steering models we’ve tried. And we like the distinct click of SRAM Red shifting when fingers get cold and go numb. Moot’s Cinch seatpost is aptly named: adjustments are intuitive, and you can tighten everything down with one bolt. 16.5lbs.