The Escape Collective reports that the UCI plans to implement several new technical rule changes in 2024 that will apply not only to professionals, but also amateur riders.

While the changes are not likely to be enforced at UCI Gran Fondo World Series world championship qualifying races, they will apply to riders competing in the individual time trial, team relay and road races at the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships taking place in Denmark next September.

Going forward, in mass start events supplied bib numbers must now be attached to the outside of a rider’s jersey/clothing – traditionally done with safety pins – to insure number visibility at all times.  The popular built-in see-through jersey pockets used to display rider numbers will now only be allowed in time trial events.

As far as riders pushing the limits of aerodynamic tuning, the UCI plans to crack-down on using hydration systems to improving airflow. First and foremost, it will be illegal to place empty water bottles on a bike, although this change is expected to only apply in time trial events. Also, CamelBak bladder style hydration systems will still be allowed, but must only be worn out in the open on a rider’s back and not concealed under clothing. Finally, bottles may no longer be frame integrated, mounted behind a handlebar stem or mounted behind a seat.

In addition, riders will not be allowed to use clothing to modify their morphology for aerodynamic gains – like stuffing bubble-wrap inside a jersey to improve airflow by taking on the shape of Bibendum the Michelin Tire Man.

Photo Credit: Simon Bromley/IM, stock

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