The International Cycling Union (UCI) has adopted a series of rule changes designed to improve both rider safety and equality of opportunity in competition. The changes will come into force in stages and include revised sanction regulations, a ban on front pockets on jerseys and size restrictions for bike computers.
Size restriction for cycle computers by UCI
The UCI has updated the regulations on "on-board technologies". From 1 January 2028, the permitted dimensions for bike computers will be limited to a maximum of 126 x 71 mm. A Garmin Edge 1050 is compliant with 119 x 60 mm - 8 mm longer would fall under the ban. At 125 x 70 mm, the Wahoo Elmnt Ace is just within the permitted values. A commercially available silicone cover would probably reach the limits of the permitted dimensions. At least the UCI has learnt from past mistakes and has not banned current products from the market leaders. Most smartphones, on the other hand, are already subject to the ban due to their size. Because the rules do not only apply to professional cycling, you could also run into problems at the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships if you mount your smartphone on the handlebars.
According to the World Cycling Union, the size limit was imposed due to scientific findings on the cognitive strain on riders during competition. Studies show that the growing amount of data available to riders during a race can lead to increased mental stress - a key factor in the occurrence of accidents. Limiting the display size is intended to prevent the amount of data available during a race from continuing to grow uncontrollably. One could criticise the fact that the data is then shown on a smaller display. Does the bottom line really promote safety? Was there really a need for regulation here?
Front pockets on jerseys banned by UCI in future
Another rule change also raises the question of whether cycling really needs to regulate every detail. The UCI has decided that from 1 July 2026, jersey pockets may only be attached to the back of the garment. Front pockets will be banned from this date - with one exception: a pocket on the front will still be permitted, provided it is only intended to hold a radio.
At the beginning of 2026, the cycling world federation reportedly observed that several riders were wearing jerseys with internal front pockets filled with food products. According to the UCI, these products were hardly or not at all consumed during the race, as they were difficult or impossible to reach under race conditions. Instead, the bags caused a significant change in the riders' body shape. The argument based on rider safety seems rather bold: according to the UCI, better aerodynamics result in higher speeds and therefore greater danger. Because the world cycling organisation is probably not entirely convinced by this logical chain itself, it adds the argument of sporting fairness to its justification.
Revised sanctions for non-compliant equipment
With effect from 1 July 2026 - shortly before the start of the Tour de France - a revised table of sanctions for the use of non-compliant equipment will come into force. It applies to the road, track, mountain bike and cyclocross disciplines. Previously, offences could be punished with bans, disqualifications, demotions and fines. In future, the regulations will provide for additional sanctions specifically aimed at bicycle accessories and accessories worn by riders. These include both financial and sporting penalties. According to the UCI, the aim of the new regulations is to have a stronger deterrent effect and to apply the sanctions more uniformly and consistently.
The measures adopted apply to all UCI-affiliated competitions in the disciplines concerned. Detailed information on the amended regulations will be published on the official UCI website.
Kristian Bauer
Editor
