Several new Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Technical regulations went into effect 1 January that affect amateur cyclists planning to compete in the UCI Gran Fondo World Championship road races in Niseko, Japan next August.

The UCI rolled out these changes with the aim of increasing rider safety.

1. Deep-Deep Dish Wheels Are Out

Deep dish road wheels with rim heights over 65mm are now prohibited in mass start races, including UCI sanctioned gran fondos like the world championships.

2. Time Trial-ish Helmets Banned In Mass Start Road Events

Helmets worn at the UCI Gran Fondo World Championship road races must now meet certain “non-aero” specifications, including a minimum of 3 ventilation openings, ears not covered and no eye visor. The end result… if it looks like a time trial helmet it is likely banned.

3. UCI Checking For Proper Handlebar Setups

Although widely unpopular with racers, the UCI is enforcing standardized handlebar setups in road events (yes, they have special measuring tools). Handlebars must now be at least 400mm wide measured outside to outside, with the bar flare a maximum of 65mm (horizontal) from the inside of the tops to the outside of the drops. Shift/Brake lever setups must also now not tilt inward more than 10 degrees and a minimum of 280mm must be present between the inner edges of the Shift/Brake levers.

Complete 2026 UCI Technical Regulations available HERE

Note: Most of the UCI Gran Fondo World Championship qualifying events are not sanctioned by the UCI and are not required to enforce these regulations. Nonetheless, always check with individual event organizers to get the most accurate information about equipment rules and requirements.

Photo Credit: UCI

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