The key factor in cyclo cross racing is keeping momentum going whatever situations the course or other riders confront you with. This often means getting off the bike in circumstances where riding is not possible then back on again where it is, often several times in a single lap. The ability to do this at speed, without stopping the bike gives the rider a big advantage over others who have to slow or stop.

Factors influencing when to get off the bike for an obstacle are running speed, surface conditions and the position of other riders around you. Leave the dismount as late as possible before getting off the bike but allowing enough time to pick the bike up if it needs to be lifted/carried over the obstacle.

Dismounting on the non-chainset side (left) is preferable but practicing dismounting from either side is advised. For dismounting on the left, approach the point at which you want to get off and adjust the speed accordingly. Unclip the right foot and swing it backwards, over the saddle and rear wheel placing it on the floor behind the left foot, unclipping the left foot and stepping off the pedal in a running motion as you do so. This a ‘step-back’ dismount and can be advanced into a ‘step through’ dismount which more efficiently maintains momentum and brings the rider off the bike with a more natural running momentum.

The technique is the same for the step through dismount, but lean the bike slightly away from you as you bring the right leg over the rear wheel and step through between the frame and your left leg, unclipping the left foot as you take the first running step. In both cases it is essential to keep looking ahead to maintain a straight line and riders should think about selecting the correct gear in advance of the dismount, anticipating the remount that is to follow.