Boardman CXR 9.4 (video)

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The Boardman CXR 9.4 is Chris Boardman’s preferred ride, chosen for its go-anywhere versatility as much as its prowess on the cross circuit.

Boardman Bikes have always featured a broad spread of cyclocross models, with three in the Elite CXR range and the two CX bikes in the performance group. There’s also a frameset-only CXR option if you want to choose your own spec.

The range-topping Boardman CXR 9.4 is right on-trend, with disc brakes for assured stopping whatever the conditions, and thru-axle hubs to provide a rigid interface between the frame and wheels. Crucially for quick wheel changes, these are perfect for avoiding problems with disc rotor alignment.

Internal cable routing is pretty much standard on modern bikes; on the Boardman it helps keep the cables out of the way when shouldering the bike and protects them from the typical muddy and wet conditions of cyclocross.

The frame is built from top-grade C10 carbon-fibre and comes with a SRAM Force 1 single-ring groupset with hydraulic brakes. You can opt for a double chainset if you prefer, but single-ring groupsets have taken the cyclocross world by storm in the last few years and we're big fans. They offer a broad gear range, while the combination of a clutched rear mech to maintain chain tension with deep wide/narrow teeth on the chainring, helps prevent chain loss and promote mud clearance.

Boardman’s CXR Elite Five wheelset is tubeless ready and uses classic J-bend stainless spokes for ease of maintenance. Set your tyres up tubeless and you can run them at lower pressure, which improves grip in tricky conditions, while avoiding the risk of a pinch flat. The sealant will also help seal punctures when they occur.

Available in five sizes from XS to XL, the CXR 9.4 is designed to suit riders from 1.67m to 2m in height. The CXR 9.4 is a pure race bike, but other bikes in the CXR range have mudguard and rack mounts, so there’s the versatility to use the CXR as more of an all-rounder or a winter trainer too.

Price            £2299.99

Frame            Boardman CXR, C10 carbon

Fork            Boardman CXR Disc, carbon

Size range            XS – XL

Weight            8.3kg/18.3lb

Groupset            SRAM Force 1

Gear ratios            38, 11-36

Wheels            Boardman CXR Elite Five Disc

Tyres            Vittoria Cross XM Pro

Brakes            SRAM Force hydraulic

Bar            Boardman Elite alloy

Stem            Boardman Elite carbon

Seatpost            Boardman Elite SLR carbon twenty

Saddle            Prologo Navo Evo 141

Distributor           www.boardmanbikes.com (opens in new tab)