Cyclocross
Races typically take place in the autumn and winter (the international or "World Cup" season is October–February), and consist of many laps of a short (2.5–3.5 km or 1.5–2 mile) course featuring pavement, wooded trails, grass, steep hills and obstacles requiring the rider to quickly dismount, carry the bike while navigating the obstruction and remount.Races for senior categories are generally between 30 minutes and an hour long, with the distance varying depending on the ground conditions.
Mountain Bike XC
Cross-country cycling is defined by the terrain on which it is performed. XC courses and trails consist of a mix of rough forest paths and singletrack (also referred to as doubletrack depending on width), smooth fireroads, and even paved paths connecting other trails. Most cross-country trails are deemed "easy" or "intermediate", however, some paths can be difficult, even for experienced riders, such as the trails used during the Summer Olympic Games.
Road
Road racing is the most popular professional form of bicycle racing, in terms of numbers of competitors, events and spectators. Races can typically be split into 'mass-start' events where riders start simultaneously (though sometimes with a handicap), racing to set finish point, or individual and team time trials where riders or teams race a course individually against the clock. Races such as the Lincoln Gran Prix, National Road Race Champs.
