It's no secret that 'cross doesn't play favorites out on the course—only the strong survive. And when it comes to bikes, this is especially true. That's why our CruX Elite was built to deliver a no-nonsense approach to the discipline of cyclocross.

Beginning with the frame, we implemented our Rider-First Engineered™ technology that was first introduced on our Tarmacs. Using size-specific tubes and layups, this technology allows the CruX to feature the same ride characteristics across every size in the range. Not only this, but it also allowed us to significantly drop the frame weight, so the CruX now comes in around a scant 900 grams for a 56cm (*dependent on frame size and color)—over 400 grams lighter than the previous frameset. A light and stiff frame, alone, isn't useful in a 'cross race if it isn't compliant, however, which is why the new CruX also combines stiffness and compliance in all the right places. And to assist with the latter, we lowered the seat collar by two centimeters for more exposed seatpost and cushion for big hits.

We also know that cyclocross races are often won in the corners and over the barriers, which is why the CruX geometry takes this into account. The top tube has been designed for easy shouldering when you're hopping off to clear barriers, as it features a large opening to the front triangle and a flat bottom. For stability in the corners and on off-camber sections, the geometry has a low bottom bracket and a sharp front-end. This combination also helps to initiate corners, regardless of the terrain.

With maximum mud-shedding ability in mind, we included eight millimeters of clearance on all sides of a 33mm tire, providing plenty of clearance for muddy conditions. It's awesome to have a light bike, after all, but frame weight becomes irrelevant when it’s covered in 10 pounds of mud. It also comes with a reliable SRAM Rival 1 hydraulic disc groupset, tough DT R470 Disc wheels, and 2Bliss Ready tires that hookup over nasty terrain.