UCI to limit gear ratios in some professional races from August 2025

The test protocol, which will only apply to mass start events and not time trials, comes after the SafeR Commission (pro cycling's independent body focused on improving rider safety) concluded that "gearing could be contributing to excessive top speeds in certain sections of races such as downhills."

The restriction will limit the maximum gear ratio to a distance covered per pedal revolution of 10.46 meters, effectively capping the highest gear racers can use during competition.

"Following the implementation of tests, relevant data will be monitored and feedback from all stakeholders will be gathered to study the effects of restrictions on gearing," the UCI stated in its memorandum dated July 1, 2025.

The new regulations will affect riders using all four major groupset brands in professional cycling. While Shimano, Campagnolo, and FSA all have maximum gear ratios of 54x11, SRAM users with 54x10 gearing will need mechanical adjustments by team mechanics before races.

Race commissaires will enforce the protocol by measuring chainring diameters and verifying rear gears at selected events. Non-compliance will result in sanctions according to existing UCI race incident regulations.

The SafeR Commission will recommend which events should implement the test protocol, with the UCI making final decisions after consulting with race organisers. Selection criteria will include stage profiles, team levels, and the number of participants.

Event organisers will be required to provide the UCI with current and historical speed and location data of riders, while also updating their race regulations to inform participants of the gear restrictions.

At the conclusion of the racing season, the SafeR Commission will evaluate the effectiveness of the gear restrictions before presenting findings to the Professional Cycling Council and UCI Management Committee for decisions on future measures.

The initiative represents the first major technical limitation on gearing in modern professional cycling, aimed specifically at controlling speeds in the interest of rider safety.

• Maximum allowed gear: 54x11 equivalent (10.46m per pedal revolution)
• Implementation date: August 1, 2025
• Applies to: Selected mass start events (not time trials)
• Enforcement: Commissaires will measure chainrings and verify rear gears