Cyclocross is what happens when you combine knobby-tired bicycles on a mud-filled circuit course with steep hills, imposing obstacles, excited fans and lots of cowbell. It’s a hard-won race on wheels and a heart-pumping event to witness. Oregon is home to one of the most active Cyclocross communities in the nation and second-time host to the National Cyclocross Championship this December.  Whether you’re a racer or a spectator, grab your cowbell and join us for a ‘cross adventure!  (for more on this adventure, check out the rest of the story in our magazine)

Cyclocross marries two of Oregon’s true loves: bikes and adventure—and it’s a sport for everyone. The competitions are geared for all ages and levels so even the novice cyclist can get their foot, err pedal, in the game (some races even have toddler and kiddie ‘cross). The season started in October and will culminate in December at the National Championship in Bend, where riders from all over the nation and all around the world come to compete at the Old Mill District.

If you’re in the Portland area, there are weekly races you can attend and compete in. A good place to start is at 21st Avenue Bikes in the Alphabet District or River City Bicycles in Southeast. The staff at these two venerable shops can not only point you in the right direction for race and course information, they’ll also help outfit with the gear and bikes. While you’re there, check out the line of locally made clothing. Thanks to the city’s thriving bike community, international clothing lines Castelli and Rapha headquarter in Portland.

The Cross Crusade hosts races in the fall and is the biggest weekly series in the state, boasting one of the largest attended Cyclocross series in the nation.