XC
Cross-country (XC) cycling is a discipline of mountain biking. Cross-country cycling became an Olympic sport in 1996 and is the only form of mountain biking practiced at the Olympics.
Terrain
Cross-country cycling is defined by the terrain on which itng other trails. Until recently cross-country trails were deemed "easy" or "intermediate", due to the concept that this discical4 trails consist of technical rooty and rocky sections and small and other elements like drops and steep descents to challenge even the experienced riders in the XC World Cup and Summer Olympic Games.
Racing
Cross-country racing emphasizes endurance above technical prowess, and races vary from 30 minutes to 24 hours in length. Additionally, many mountain bike races are divided up into stages so as to span several days. Races can be either point-to-point or lap-based. Short-track cross-country c
Unlike downhill races, nterval start, where riders are released in several large groups divided by age and/or ability. Races with very large fields that do not wish to stagger starts will sometimes employ a Le Mans start where racers begin by running to their bikes.
Start line for the under 23 men's cross-country race at the 2009 UCI World Championships.
Globally, XC racing is governed by t the purview of USACMTB a division of USA Cycling. In the United Kingdom, British Cycling is the governing body.
Racing disciplines
- XCE (Cross-Country eliminator)
- XCO (Cross-Country Olympic)
- XCM (Cross-Country Marathon)
- Cross-Country Eliminator (XCE)
- A race where the last one or two people who go through the finish line are out of the race.
- Cross-Country Olympic (XCO)
- Consists of a lap racing around a short circuit. It's the only discipline which is in the Olympics, and high mountain bike skills are required.
- Cross-Country Marathon (XCM)
- With a route usually between 65 and 100 km. It has gained popularity in the last years, because XCM competition participation is open to everyone, including beginners.
There are some XC racing disciplines, like
