Gearing

Bikes raced by juniors must have restricted gearing, i.e. they are limited to the highest gear allowed. These gear ratios have been set to help develop pedalling skills, to prevent excessive loads on younger developing muscles and bones and to create a degree of evenness within each age category. There is often a tendency for younger riders to use gear ratios which are far too big.

One of the fundamental secrets to becoming a successful racing cyclist is developing the ability to pedal fast i.e. at high cadence or revolution rate. This is best achieved through the use of low gears, the use of the small chainwheel and a medium to larger cog on the rear cluster.

The limit on gearing is given as a “rollout” - the distance the bike moves for 1 full rotation of the pedals in the highest gear.

Age categories and rollout limits

• U11 5.5m (5.0m in NSW)
• U13 5.5m
• U15 6.0m
• U17 6.5m
• U19 7.4 for Women, 7.93 for Men

 

To check the rollout you should

• Adjust the front and rear derailleurs so that the chain is on the largest chain wheel and the smallest rear cog.
• Place the bike on flat, smooth ground, place the cranks exactly vertical so that one of the pedals is at the bottom closest to the ground.
• Mark the ground directly under the centre of the crank. Wheel the bike backwards (so the chainwheel is turned) in a straight line until the chainwheel has completed one full revolution. At this point the same pedal is again at the bottom of the stroke. Put another mark on the ground directly under the centre of the crank.
• Measure the distance between the two marks to give you the rollout distance.
• Repeat the procedure, if necessary, by adjusting the rear cogs and/or chainwheel until the right combination is obtained.
• Having found the correct combination, the screws on the rear and/or front derailleurs should be adjusted so gear selection is restricted.
• It must be kept in mind that there are different tyre sizes and wheel dimensions which may affect the rollout so it is best to check all details prior to racing.
• It is best to check thoroughly your rollout before you race and if in any doubt speak to club coaches who will assist you. Please note that our club coaches are happy to advise you on gear selection and setting up a bike with correct gearing for juniors.
• Riders found using gear ratios in excess of the above figures can be disqualified and the gears are always checked at open events and will be randomly checked at club events.
• It should also be noted that all juniors U15 and below must use detachable tyres with beading (singular tubulars are not permitted).

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