Bubblecross begins the 2026 NJCX series on October 11, just in time for peak cyclocross. Some racers will be starting their season here while others will be fresh from a double weekend in Baltimore.

Our longtime favorite local race will take place once again at Bubbling Springs Park in West Milford, NJ. So we can expect the usual mix of grassy uphills and downhills with the classic mix of tight to sweeping turns, singletrack in the woods, and spectator favorite a long sandy on the beach section. But this year’s race adds a new twist: peak leaf season and fall weather.

2026 Registration: NJBA CX Cup Race - Bubblecross presented by Team Town Cycle

2025 Race Report: Bubblecross 2025

Our other prior Bubblecross coverage: Bubblecross

The Weather Forecast

Typically held in early September we expected warm temperatures even if it rained. No longer in the end of summer weather confusion, the October the weekend is firmly now in fall. Or is it. Lows in the 40s and a high of 65, windy and overcasts.. seems like proper fall cyclocross weather but that will be debated in the Slack channel right up to the morning drive.

The week leading to race day will by dry and sunny, so the sand sections could be loose. And the falling leaves in the woods sections could be slippery early in the day. But that’s what a pre-ride (and a weather debate) is for. It’s looking like a good weekend to break out the new fall kit weather team kit! If you’re bringing a team tent, don’t forget stakes and mallet because it will be windy.

The Course

By now most of you know to expect a bit of everything. There are two grass sections, two wooded sections, and a beach. The first grass section is all pedaling and turns an a gradual uphill before heading back down and through the bubble gauntlet and onto a short but loose sand pit transition. Then a short gravel road leads along the pond before turning up a rocky single track climb into the woods and through a slight off-camber dirt transition to the second grass section. More off-camber grass turns and sweeping downhills wind back into the woods where the trails are more technical, including a slippery mulch and wood chip decent before another rocky and rooted section of trails. Some years there has been a log-over — a favorite spot for hecklers to gather (to shout encouragement). A fast and bumpy downhill follows leading to the sandy beach. Here, carrying that downhill speed into the sand will take you far.

Hanging out

Bubblecross brings out all the locals and competition will be.. friendly. It’s a great race to introduce to someone new to cyclocross to the scene! The parking and team tent area are in the center of the course making nearly every section of the race accessible for spectating. The park has indoor restrooms and water hoses for bike washing. However, there are no food trucks. Some of us like to go just down the street to Vreeland Store for pre-race food, post race sandwiches and beverages.

Gear

With so much sand a file tread would seem like the first choice. But because of the variety of terrain, a mixed tread like the Griffo or Typhoon, or Baby Limus or Small Bird with slightly more tire pressure for the rocks and roots might be a better choice. Again, we love a pre-ride to dial in tire pressure for conditions on the day.

Can’t wait to see you there! Look for us in our brand new green tent!