Cross-Country or XC is probably the most well-known of MTB disciplines. It is easy to get into and the least extreme compared to other styles. It involves riding through various terrains across all types of countryside. XC riders experience variety, adventure, nature and the feeling of freedom. The variety of terrains means that a number of skills are required, riders could need to tackle steep climbs, gnarly descents and tight, twisty singletrack in the bush.

XC was the first MTB racing discipline and is also an Olympic sport. Races are typically mass start events and involve a point to point course.

Race tracks can vary in size, some involving a number of laps around a short course while others will just have one long lap. An average race could be around 20-30 kms long and are categorized.

XC racing involves knowing how to pace yourself within your limits and requires some endurance. To start XC racing, you simply need a half-decent MTB and some reasonable riding skills. If you want to be competitive, you need to train hard and learn some reasonable technical skills.

XC specific MTB's focus on minimising the pedaling effort and tend to be lightweight and made of aluminium, carbon or titanium. The front suspension typically has between 80-120mm of travel.