Not too early to think about cyclocross: Clinics start next week

Learn how to fly over
barriers like this guy.
(Photo © J. Maus)

With the Tour de France in the rear view and August approaching, many Portlanders are beginning the annual mental (and physical) shift into cyclocross season. For some, that means it’s time to brush up on those ‘cross-specific skills. Fortunately, there are many clinics and classes to do just that.

One thing that makes Portland’s ‘cross scene so big and successful is that there are ample opportunities for newbies to learn and gain confidence with the sport through a variety of clinics offered each year.

I’ve already come across three four clinics, the first of which begins next week. Even the Multnomah County Library is offering one! See below for details.

Upper Echelon Fitness (1420 NW 17th) is a Northwest Portland based fitness and training studio where cyclocross is taken very seriously. That’s not to say they don’t have fun, but they know their stuff and if you want to learn from the best in a variety of settings, look no further than UEF. This year they’ve got an 8-week training class ($15 per class or $125 for all), twice a week clinics out at Alpenrose on Tuesday and Thursdays, a Cross Swap meet on August 27th, and even a fully immersive Cyclocross Camp on Labor Day Weekend (9/3 – 9/5). It all starts next week. For the full low-down, visit UEF’s website.

Wenzel Coaching offers a series of three cyclocross skills clinics, the first of which is for women only. Their clinics are held out at Portland International Raceway and the cost is $30 per session or $85 for all three. Wenzel’s clinics are taught by a top-notch trio of coaches: Anne Linton, MD (a USA Cycling coach), Rhonda Morin (a cyclocross national master’s bronze medalist) and Martin Baker (an Oregon State cross-country champion). Register and learn more at WenzelCoaching.com.

Cyclocross has so firmly put its stamp on Portland that even the public library offers a cyclocross course. On September 6th from 6:30 to 7:45 pm at the Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), you can attend a free Bike Racing 101: Intro to Cyclocross class. Veteran ‘cross racers and an employee from 21st Avenue Bicycles will be on hand to answer questions about equipment, what to expect on race day, and more. Seating is available on first-come, first-served basis, so get there early!

And finally, local cyclocross expert Molly Cameron will host an informational clinic focused on tubular tires and other equipment. The free clinic will be held at Portland Bicycle Studio (1420 NW 17th, same as UEF) at 6:30 pm this Thursday, July 28th. More info here.

This is just a handful of the many clinics and classes that are sure to be offered this coming cyclocross season. For more, keep your eyes on my Twitter feed and the Oregon Bicycle Racing Association (OBRA) website.