Thinking About Trying Cyclocross? Here’s Your Chance!

A spectator offering a hand-up to a cyclocross racer at Go Cross in Fallon Park in Roanoke, Virginia.

Gravel riders. Mountain bikers. Weekend warriors. Bike-curious friends who just like getting dirty. Cyclocross is calling your name.

What’s cyclocross? Imagine ripping around a short course with grass, dirt, barriers, and a few “what the heck was that?!” moments, all while people cheer, cowbells ring, and food trucks and beer keep the party rolling. It’s fast. It’s rowdy. And it’s ridiculously fun.

This fall, GO Cross at Fallon Park (Sept. 13–14) is your ticket in. Here’s how to jump in without overthinking it:

Bring Whatever Bike You’ve Got

Cyclocross bike? Cool. Gravel bike? Perfect. Mountain bike? Even better. Helmet? You’re all set! The motto is simple: run what ya brung. If it’s got knobby tires, it’s game on.

First-Timers Get a Sweet Deal

If you’ve never raced before, you get discounted registration at Go Cross. The beginner categories are stacked with people just like you: stoked to try it, not taking it too seriously, and maybe secretly in it for the beer and bragging rights. Just attend one of the practices or the Sunset Spin event, talk to Frank Deal, and you’ll get the hook-up.

All smiles at VBR Go Cross cyclocross race in Roanoke, Virginia.

Practice Nights = Free Skills + Free Laughs

Every Wednesday night at Fallon Park, the local CX crew is out there showing the ropes. You’ll learn how to corner, hop a barrier, or gracefully eat it and get back up—because falling is part of the fun. Bring water, bring your bike, and get ready to laugh, sweat, and maybe discover your new favorite way to ride.

Sunset Spin: The Pre-Party

On September 3, the whole community rolls out for the Sunset Spin—a chance to preview the course before race weekend. Think of it as a laid-back kickoff party for the cyclocross season. You’ll be teamed up with other riders for a little friendly competition.

It’s Not Just a Race. It’s a Vibe.

Go Cross Cyclocross in Roanoke, Virginia

Even if you’re racing once, you’ll want to stay. Go Cross is basically a festival disguised as a bike race—food trucks, music, craft beer, cowbells, heckling (the good kind), and a weekend-long party that’ll make you wonder why you didn’t try cyclocross sooner.

👉 Ready to stop watching from the sidelines and join the chaos? Hit up the First-Timer’s Guide, come to a Wednesday practice, spin with us on Sept. 3, and then line up at Fallon Park on September 13 and 14 for Go Cross.

Cowbells and glory are waiting. 🔔🚴‍♂️💨