Changes in gear restrictions for youth riders

British Cycling has recently communicated that gear restrictions for youth riders (Under 8 to Under 16) will change, effective from 1 March 2025. The new and previous restrictions are shown in the table. 

The gearing restrictions are measured in terms of a maximum rollout distance, the distance travelled in a straight line for one full revolution of the pedals. 

For Youth D (Under 10) and Youth E (Under 8), restrictions have been removed, and riders no longer need to restrict their gears. 

For Youth A (Under 16), Youth B (Under 14) and Youth C (Under 12) road and track racing that is run under British Cycling regulations (some club events and most open events), riders will need to use the British Cycling gear restrictions that apply to their age group. These have been relaxed slightly (allowing harder gears).

British Cycling has indicated that the objective is to reduce the barriers to competition, simplify technical regulations and modernise the sport.

Should I restrict my gears to conform? 

The gearing should ensure a rollout no longer than the limit for the relevant age group. Wheel size and tyre choice will impact a bike’s rollout distance, in addition to the size (number of teeth) on the (largest) chainring and (smallest) sprocket.

In some instances, it will be necessary to ‘lock off’ or restrict the rear derailleur from entering the smallest sprocket(s). Other possibilities are changing the chainring and/or cassette or sprocket. 

There are useful tools for choosing a suitable gear ratio based on wheel/tyre size. Make sure you use a rollout to verify compliance. Don’t rely on a calculation as tyres may not conform to the calculated measurements and may vary depending on the width of the rim.

If in doubt, please speak to one of the coaches, particularly before spending money on new equipment. There can be a few things to think about, including groupset compatibility, frame clearances and fast-growing children!

Why have gear restrictions at all?

The purpose of gear restrictions is twofold. Firstly, it ensures a level playing field among all riders in a race by encouraging use of tactics rather than pushing the biggest gear to go fastest. Secondly, it ensures that young, developing riders develop a supple, high cadence pedalling style and are not pushing big gears, which risks damaging knees and growing muscles.

How can PPYCC help?

We will practice in Saturday sessions to get riders familiar with the experience of having their gears measured before a race, and racing using the restricted gears for their age groups.

For some, this may mean their highest gears may have been ‘locked out’, in which case they may be pedalling faster and possibly not going quite as fast as they are used to. This is all part of the learning experience for the riders. 

If you’d like more information on how to set up gears for your age group please see the official British Cycling guidance, or ask any of our coaches at Saturday morning training.