It's impossible to describe cyclocross in a word. Or even several words. What the mix of cycling, obstacles, mud, pavement and cowbells requires is a paragraph - much of which will focus on what the sport isn't:

It isn't a mountain bike race, but MTB riders often compete. It isn't an event filled with drafting and climbs, though riders pedal close together and there are the requisite small hills. It is run on courses built in fields and parks that include pavement, single track, dirt, mud, open space. And it does include obstacles that require dismounts during which riders shoulder their bikes and run before jumping back in the saddle.

Cyclocross has a little bit of everything - for everyone - and it's happening for the section straight weekend in Maine. This week's event is the Downeast Cyclocross at Pineland Farms where two days packed with races will kick off at 8:30 a.m. Saturday. The final races each day go off at 3 p.m. and in between will be categories from juniors to pro men to elite women.

View the schedule here.

In cyclocross the courses are designed with spectators in mind and riders are judged by how much of the course they cover in the time allotted for each race. At Pineland races will run from 40 to 60 minutes. With an average lap time of 7 to 10 minutes that's a lot of riding.

If you head out to watch, plan on being loud and rowdy and hearing a lot of cow bells.

If you plan to ride, click here to register online. Registration closes Thursday, Oct. 18 at 11:45 p.m.

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About the Author

Karen Beaudoin is an online editor for Maine Today Media and contributes two blogs to the company's websites.

In the City tells readers what to know if they want to know Portland. Pedal On offers info, events and advice for people who love their bikes more than, well ... almost anything.

Get in touch at kbeaudoin@mainetoday.com

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Previous entries

May 2013

• Lend a hand for BCM's annual Maine Women's Ride
• Moms can get a free ride Sunday at Quest Cycle
• Girls and Gears happens Friday at Gorham Bike and Ski

April 2013

• Best Portland Bike Swap yet for BCM
• Swap your ride at Gorham Bike and Ski Saturday
• Pedal to your next picnic with a carry-all bike
• Sebago's supporting the Trek with Pale Ale brew crew
• Bicycle Coalition wants your help for upcoming swaps

March 2013

• Tour de Cure training rides kick off March 30
• You're invited to Bicycle Coalition's Portland open house
• USM's free 6-week bike mechanics workshops start Wednesday
• Get tix soon for Maine debut of Dempsey-produced 'Peloton Project'
• It's time for Red Riders to sign up for Tour de Cure
• Photos: Portland's Quest Cycle ready to welcome riders

February 2013

• Quest Cycle in Portland: Open house tonight, opening day Friday
• Welcome to Portland: Bicycle Coalition move to Preble Street
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• Bicycle Coalition announces route for 1st BikeMaine ride

January 2013

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December 2012

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