Best Cyclocross Bikes under $500

Cyclocross combines both on-road and off-road cycling in a competitive manner. A typical cyclocross terrain features grass, woodland trails, pavement, mud, and sand. To tackle such a varied combination of terrains, you need to get one of the best cyclocross bikes.

As the world moves towards a more fitness and health-oriented attitude, the demand for the best cyclocross bikes is increasing. With so many options on the market it can be difficult to pick a good cyclocross bike. Luckily, we’ve done all the research so you don’t have to!

We understand that every cyclist has a different budget, that’s why we’re classified the best cyclocross bikes according to three different budgets. Without much further ado, here are the best cyclocross bikes in 2022!

Best Cyclocross Bikes Under $500 – bikes reviews

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Vilano R2

Hiland Cyclocross Bike (Shimano ed.)

Hiland Cyclocross Bike for Woman

Schwinn Volare

Hiland Aluminum Road Bike

State Bicycle Co. Fixed-Gear-Bicycles

Staying on the tangent of fixed-gear-bicycles, another option available for those looking to get a start in cyclocross racing is the State Bicycle Co. 6.0!

If you want to get the most cyclocross performance out of the State Bicycle Co 6.0, then going with the riser bar version is the best idea. The drop bar variant of the bicycle is more geared to on-road performance.

What makes the State Bicycle Co. 6.0 perfect for cyclocross competition is the durable frame design. Instead of going with regular steel, State Bicycle are offering a superior and lightweight 4130 chromoly frame set.

While the aesthetic design of the bike is brilliant, the Matte black color scheme isn’t the best for cyclocross. Because of the rough and tumble nature of cyclocross riding, you can definitely expect the paint job to get really muddy.

You’re also going to need a set of wider tyres to get more balanced cyclocross performance out of the State Bicycle Co. 6.0.

Pros:

• Uses an interesting lightweight chromoly frame set
• Riser bar allows for a decent geometry

Cons:

• Matte black paint gets muddy easily
• Requires new tyres for cyclocross

Giordano Libero Aluminum Road Bike, 700c Medium

If you want to look your stylish best while riding a cyclocross bike then the Giordano Libero is a great option. It features a 6061 aluminum frame that’s both lightweight and incredibly durable.

On top of a lightweight frame, you also get a dual suspension type that’s capable of absorbing bumps and divots to ensure that the ride remains smooth. The wheel size comes in around 29-inches.

To further help with performance on difficult terrains, the Giordano Libero also features 16 different gears to choose between. Shifting between these gears can make pedalling on specific terrains much easier.

Thanks to the presence of Shimano Claris STI shifters, shifting between gears is a breeze and actually feels enjoyable.

Another feature that’s essential in a good cyclocross bike is the ability to stop quickly and safely. Thanks to the alloy dual pivot brakes, the bike will come to a stop at a moment’s notice.

However, the Libero does need better tyres to realize its maximum potential. A few customers also complained about having to make multiple adjustments to properly assemble the bike!

Pros:

• Brilliant design
• Smart suspension system
• Shifting gears on the bike is enjoyable

Cons:

• Requires better off-road tyres
• Assembly requires a lot of adjustment

Merax Finiss Road Bike Aluminum 21 Speed 700C Racing Bicycle

It’s definitely challenging to find a purpose-built cyclocross bike in this budget. Many of the best cyclocross bikes under $500 are road bikes with a different set of tyres. One of the best among these is the Merax Finiss road bike!

Aside from the eye-catching design, the first thing that stands out is the superb build quality. It features a 6061 aluminum frame that’s lightweight and durable. The lightweight ensures that the bicycle is easy to ride and transport as well.

Another attractive feature of the Merax Finiss is that it’s super easy to install. Even a cyclist without any tools can easily assemble the bike thanks to the quick-release pin.

The bicycle features a 21-speed Shimano shifting system that provides smooth gear changes on rough and mixed terrain. If you have previous experience with a mountain bike, then riding the Merax Finiss will completely change your world.

To get the most off-road performance out of the Giordano Libero, including a new set of more off-road friendly tyres is a good idea.

If it wasn’t for the 700C tyres, then the Merax Finiss would definitely be the best cyclocross bike under $500!

Pros:

• Eye-catching design
• Wide gear ratio helps with riding on hills
• Quick-release pin ensures easy assembly

Cons:

• Off-road performance isn’t up to par
• Needs wider tyres to perform effectively

6KU Aluminum Fixed Gear Single-Speed

The 6KU aluminum fixed gear single-speed urban track bike is a brilliant cyclocross bike. However, to get the best cyclocross performance from the bicycle you’re going to need to change the tyres.

It features a lightweight full aluminum frame and fork that ensures the bike remains durable while remaining easy to pedal. The bike features a rear and front suspension that ensures the ride remains smooth.

6KU’s fixed bicycle features a fixed gear or freewheel mode that cyclists can choose between depending on what terrain they pick.

Thanks to the beautiful design of the bike, it makes maintenance and upkeep much easier. There are front and rear brakes to ensure that you can easily slow down .

To fully take advantage of the cyclocross capabilities of the 6KU, you’ll need to fit it with a set of new tyres. Wider tyres will improve the grip and improve the off-road performance significantly.

Overall, it’s a great option for anyone that’s just starting out with cyclocross bikes and wants to get more familiar with the type before making a major investment.

Pros:

• Easy to ride
• Beautiful aesthetic

Cons:

• Need to fit new tyres

Follure Folding Mountain Cyclocross Bik

A major mistake that most buyers make while getting a cyclocross bike is not placing enough focus on how they’re going to transport the bike.

While it’s not an issue if you live close to a trail, if you live far away from one, you’ll need to drive a trail to get the full cyclocross experience. Then there are all the different cyclocross events as well.

That’s where the follure folding mountain cyclocross bike comes into the equation. Whenever you need to transport the bike somewhere, you can simply fold it up and take it to your desired destination.

Aside from the convenient folding, it also features a lightweight and high-quality high carbon steel frame. The use of a high carbon steel frame ensures that the cyclocross bike is both durable and performs exceptionally well!

To make the bicycle as smooth as possible, a 21-speed rear derailleur allows you to switch between whatever gear suits the terrain the best. Fixed-gear bikes simply can’t match up with multi-gear bikes when it comes to cyclocross performance!

Pros:

• Folds up conveniently
• Wide Gear ratio
• Performs well on both off-road and on-road terrains

Cons:

• High steel carbon is brittle and can potentially shatter

Best Cyclocross Bikes – Why should you buy? 

Before we get into the best cyclocross bikes in the market, let’s take a look at why most cyclists decide to buy this particular type of bike in the first place.

Cyclocross Bikes are Versatile

Primarily, one of the main benefits of opting for a cyclocross bike is the high level of versatility. Cyclocross bikes are capable of performing competitively on both on-road and off-road terrains.

When you equip the cyclocross bike with knobbly off-road tyres, they’re capable of handling rough trails, mud, sand, and gravel. On the other hand, when you throw on a pair of slicks, you’ll be able to race along with the best of them on pavements.

Instead of just racing, these bikes work well for long commutes as well. Thanks to the relatively upright riding position and long-lasting wheels, a cyclocross bike can just about handle any route.

Winter Bikes 

While this might not be an issue for cyclists that live in areas without harsh winters, it becomes impossible to ride road bikes and gravel bikes on snow-packed roads and black ice.

However, the longer wheelbase on cyclocross bikes ensures that there’s additional stability in low-traction situations. On top of the longer wheelbase, there’s a shorter top tube and better upright geometry to put the cyclist in the best position to control.

These bikes also tend to have a bit of additional tyre clearance which helps prevent the snow and general grime slowing down the bike.

Fun Unlimited 

Cyclocross racing can trace its routes to the early 1900s. Initially, it was a way for road bike racers to manage their fitness through the winters.

Instead of just sticking to the pavement, racers would cut through different fields and fences. Any potential shortcuts in the way were all game.

Modern cyclocross have seen a significant evolution through the years, and aren’t just winter exclusives for the pros anymore. They can capably handle all kinds of terrains and that’s what makes them so enticing.

Where a mountain bike will struggle on a paved road, the cyclocross excels. At the same time, riding on a trail with a road bike is terrifying. It’ll be a complete breeze on your cyclocross bike.

Getting a cyclocross bike means that you’ll be able to explore new terrains and roads that were previously inaccessible.

Cyclocross Bikes Improve your Skill

Another advantage of cyclocross bikes is that they’ll turn you into a better rider. They’ll drastically improve your off-roading skills. Unlike mountain bikes, the tyres on cyclocross bikes are thinner.

Because of the relatively thinner tyres, cyclocross bikes will have less grip and won’t just roll over all obstacles. While riding the cyclocross bikes on off-road terrains, you’ll need to work hard to maintain control and ensure that the bike doesn’t slip.

Initially, sliding through the corners might seem scary but it’ll definitely benefit later. It’ll help you develop the skills necessary to maintain composure, even when things start going a little sideways.

Evolving Competition 

There are all kinds of cycling competitions that are gaining traction. However, one of the fastest growing niches is cyclocross racing. It’s growing so rapidly because of the massive levels of fun that racers have during the events.

Instead of looking at the amount of distance, cyclocross events are judged according to the time limit and certain set criteria. Even crashing in a cyclocross race will bring you a lot of joy.

When it comes to venues, most cyclocross races take place in your standard suburban parks. The event organizers tend to set up an obstacle course that competitors can enjoy!

These aren’t just your run off the mill obstacle courses either. The courses will have you riding, running, jumping, and potentially even crawling under obstacles. It’s quite an experience, especially if it’s your first time running such a race.

Another great thing about the event is the feeling of camaraderie. Instead of feeling like a competition, the events feel like a party. The cyclocross community is one that’s very accepting and welcomes new riders!

Now that you know about the multiple different reasons behind why it’s a good idea to get a cyclocross bike, let’s take a look at some of the best cyclocross bikes on the market.

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Conclusion

There you have it, now regardless of your budget, you can pick the one of the best cyclocross bikes in the market.

If you’re shopping for the best cyclocross bikes under $500, then the Follure folding mountain/ commuter bike is the best option. It combines performance, safety, comfort, and style, all in an easy to fold frame.

For the best cyclocross bikes under $1000, the Tomasso Siena Shimano stands heads and shoulders above the rest of the competition. It’s such a quality cyclocross bike and will truly help you enjoy it to the max.

Lastly, for the best cyclocross bikes under $2000 then we have to mention the Sporterra. Even though it has some assembly issues, it’s definitely worth talking to a professional and getting it assembled properly. The bike does everything you’d want out of a cyclocross bike and more!

Best Cyclocross Bikes – FAQs

Q1. What are cyclocross events? 

Cyclocross events typically involve a variety of different small competitions. Generally, there’s an obstacle course that cyclists will have to maneuver through. Instead of focusing on distance, they look at time!

Q2. What’s the difference between a cyclocross and hybrid bike?

Cyclocross bikes and hybrid bikes are incredibly similar. There are several hybrid bikes that’ll do well in cyclocross racing. Still, there are a few differences though. Cyclocross bikes are designed for competition and feature a sporty design!

Q3. Can I use my road bike for cyclocross events?

You can definitely use certain road bikes for cyclocross events, but you’re going to need to change the tyres. It’s also important to objectively assess whether the road bike can perform off-road, because some are purely on-road specialists.

Q4. Can I customize my cyclocross bike? 

Like all bikes, you can pretty much take your cyclocross bike apart and customize it however you want. Before making any major customizations, start off small with changing something like the paint of the bike!