Why do cyclocross jerseys have fewer pockets than road jerseys?

The minimal pocket design is specifically to prevent the top tube from catching on pocket edges during bike shouldering—a common CX technique for overcoming barriers and steep run-ups. Even small pocket edges can snag, potentially causing you to stumble or drop the bike at speed. For race day, most CX riders carry nothing in their jerseys anyway, relying on feed zones and pit crews for nutrition.