Dr Hutch doesn't do much off road riding, there are too many categories of bike: And he keeps falling off

Dr Michael Hutchinson, a multiple national time trial champion and respected cycling commentator, reflects on his limited experience with off-road riding, attributing it partly to his preference for road cycling and the scarcity of suitable terrain near his home. Despite a brief period when he attempted mountain biking, his lack of technical skills combined with a powerful riding style led to frequent falls, underscoring the challenges he faced adapting to off-road conditions. Hutchinson expresses admiration for the high skill levels displayed in off-road disciplines such as cyclocross, which he follows avidly, though he remains somewhat of an outsider to the scene. A significant portion of Hutchinson’s commentary focuses on the complexity and proliferation of off-road bike categories, which he finds bewildering. He highlights the blurred lines between cyclocross, gravel, and all-road bikes, noting examples such as Toon Aerts winning the European cyclocross championships on a modified road frame and riders like Lachlan Morton adapting gravel bikes to meet race regulations. Hutchinson questions the necessity of so many nuanced bike types, suggesting that some distinctions may be driven more by marketing and industry trends than by clear functional differences. Hutchinson draws parallels between the current fragmentation of bike categories and past trends in cycling, such as the fleeting popularity of “crit” bikes in the 2000s and the ongoing debate over whether aero and climbing road bikes remain separate or have converged. He speculates that the industry’s push for multiple niche products may be a response to post-pandemic market pressures, encouraging consumers to purchase several specialised bikes rather than one versatile model. This proliferation can make it difficult even for experienced riders to keep track of the latest developments and distinctions. The article also touches on the humorous and human side of cycling culture, with anecdotes about early experiences using aerodynamic equipment and the challenges of dressing appropriately for winter rides. These stories provide a light-hearted counterpoint to the technical discussion, reminding readers of the everyday realities and occasional mishaps that come with engaging in the sport. Hutchinson’s reflections ultimately offer a candid and thoughtful perspective on the evolving landscape of cycling equipment and the personal challenges riders face in adapting to it.