cyclo cross bikes - advice please

proto

Thinking of having a go at cyclo cross this winter and need to buy a bike. I've been doing my homework and it would seem £1000/£1200 gets you something pretty decent. Bike would also get pressed into service as a commuter on occasion. Cycle to Work scheje us an optionbut limits purchase price.

One dilemma is over what braking system.
Cantis still used by plenty of pros, simple, effective, light. Wheel rims take a battering
Discs, more stopping power, heavier, less reliable(?)
And if discs, anything wrong with mechanical or is hydraulic worth the extra?

Someone suggested going down a frame size. Good advice?

And finally, drive train. Double 46/36 seems to be a popular choice, but there are a few bikes with single front rings. One assumes lighter and more reliable(?), any views?

Any handy tips and advice much appreciated. Thanks.

bendertherobot

If you're commuting I'd rule out rim brakes simply on the grounds that, in the end, you'll wear the rims away. Though this will take a while. Also, discs are that bit better for dealing with traffic.

Most discs are pretty good to be honest. Some have better feel and modulation than others but I wouldn't worry unduly about it. They are fairly cheap to replace systems if you don't like them. TRP Spyres, for example, are only £65 each.

proto

Ooops! Hadn't noticed the Cyclo Cross section on this forum. My questions may become redundant after a bit of reading on here. Cheers all.