SRAM vs. UCI: Dispute over the “Maximum Gearing Protocol”

Am September 12, 2025 effect SRAM complaint to the Belgian Competition Authority (BCA) against the World Cycling Federation UCI The reason is the “Maximum Gearing Protocol”, a new rule limiting the maximum permissible gear ratio in certain professional races. Shortly thereafter, the BCA initiated formal proceedings – the issue is likely to have a lasting impact on the scene.

What is behind the UCI gear limit?

The rule sets the maximum development (Rollout) per crank revolution to 10,46 metres This corresponds to a translation of 54 × 11. Setups above this limit are not permitted in the affected races.

• The border closes particular 54 × 10 .
• SRAM's current top setup RED AXS 54×10 is therefore directly affected.
• Other common gear ratios (e.g. 54×11) remain compliant.

"This regulation puts our teams at a disadvantage and hampers innovation. Safety is important—but the data shows no correlation between larger gear ratios and higher accident risk."

— Ken Lousberg, CEO SRAM

Why is SRAM particularly affected?

For years, SRAM has pursued a modern shifting and transmission philosophy with 10-tooth pinion on the cassette. This allows for greater power delivery per pedal stroke—this is precisely where the new UCI limit comes into play.

• Competitive disadvantage: Teams would have to resort to smaller deployments and lose options in the race.
• Innovation brake: SRAM's 10-tooth pinion concept would be de facto undermined.
• Reputation & Market: “Not compliant” is causing uncertainty among teams, dealers and consumers.

What are the consequences for both professionals and amateur riders?

For professionals

• risk of Disqualifications or Punish in case of violations.
• Setup uncertainty In the middle of the season; there is no testing time for new combinations.
• Possible sporting disadvantages and impact on Sponsoring.

For hobby riders

Nothing changes directly: Privately, you can continue to ride any permitted setup. However, UCI rules indirectly influence what manufacturers develop and what will be available in stores in the long term. Many people are unaware of how detailed the UCI technology regulated From gear ratios to handlebar widths to wheel depths (and yes, even sock lengths). This case demonstrates how much professional rules shape the market.

What's next now?

The BCA is examining the case under EU and Belgian competition law. SRAM is demanding, among other things, immediate suspension the restriction and more Transparency and say for manufacturers in technical regulations. The UCI has Tour of Guangxi named as the first race with enforcement; other events could follow.

Conclusion: Why the topic remains exciting

The conflict over the UCI gear limit is more than a technical detail. Fairness in Sportsin order to reduce Influence of regulations on Innovation – and about which drivetrain and cassette concepts we'll see on the market in the future. Velomotion will stay tuned and report on updates for you.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the UCI gear limit

What is the UCI's Maximum Gearing Protocol?

A rule that the maximum development per crank revolution 10,46 m In practice, this corresponds to a maximum permissible ratio of 54 × 11 in the affected races.

Which translations are affected?

Especially setups above 10,46 m unfolding – especially 54 × 10, as is the case with SRAM RED AXS is used. Common 54×11 configurations remain permitted.

Why does the UCI justify this with security?

Officially, the UCI cites safety. However, no reliable data has been published to date directly linking greater gearing to a higher risk of crashes. SRAM criticizes the lack of transparency and data.

Does this affect me as a hobby rider?

In the short term, no. In the long term, UCI rules can Product Development – and thus which cassettes, chainrings and complete groups are available on the market.

Does this rule only apply to the Tour of Guangxi?

The Tour of Guangxi is the first designated race with enforcement. The UCI has indicated that further events may follow, which is currently creating uncertainty for teams and manufacturers.

Glossary: ​​Important terms explained simply

Translation (e.g. 54×11, 54×10)

Ratio of teeth on the chainring (front) to teeth on the pinion (rear).
54 × 11 means: 54 teeth at the front, 11 at the rear. The smaller the pinion,
the greater the distance per step.

Development / Rollout

Distance traveled by the bike with one crank revolution. The UCI sets the
Maximum unfolding to 10,46 meters.

SRAM RED AXS

Top road bike group from SRAM, often with 10-tooth pinion hazards.
The setup 54 × 10 is above the UCI limit.

Maximum Gearing Protocol (MGP)

Official name of the UCI gear restriction, in testing/application since 2025
at selected races.

Cassette with 10-tooth pinion

Cassette whose smallest sprocket 10 teeth Increases the
possible top speed per pedal stroke, but reduces UCI conformity above 10,46 m.

UCI regulations

Rules of the Union Cycliste Internationale. Specifies which technique is
Professional cycling is permitted – from gear ratios to handlebar widths to wheel depths.

Belgian Competition Authority (BCA)

Belgian National Competition Authority. In this case, it is examining possible
Distortions of competition and impacts on innovation and the market.