Cyclocross racing is gaining more and more popularity in the UK but on the Continent it's a long-established part of cycling culture.
Most popular in Flanders, 'cross also draws huge crowds in the Netherlands, France, the USA and a number of other destinations.
This video from Specialized speaks to riders ahead of the upcoming World Championships about what fuels their passion for cyclocross, despite the gruelling nature of the races and often adverse weather conditions they compete in.
Christine Majerus sums it up best when she remarks, 'I always say that road racing is my job, and cyclocross is my passion.'
British Cyclocross National Champion Nikki Brammeier adds: 'It's heavy on the body, it's heavy on the mind; but at the same time it's so beautiful to be a part of cyclocross.'
The 2017 Cyclocross World Championships take place in Bieles, Luxembourg over the weekend of 28th and 29th January. Britain's strongest hope for a medal looks to be present European and National Junior Champion Tom Pidcock who goes into his race as one of the favourites.