Post by Charliecod on May 3, 2015 17:22:17 GMT
A number of you have asked about these.
BC regulations for youths racing stipulate a maximum gear ratio allowable per category. This is done primarily to protect younger physically immature riders from pushing too hard a gear and injuring themselves but to a lesser extent to even the fields within the various categories.
In theory all bikes could be checked prior to the race, or a sample after the finish. The regularity of testing varies from event, however experienced judges can easily spot a rider on an unregulated bike - the rider will be tested and if found to be outside the regulations will be disqualified which would be a pity and rather embarrassing.
The easiest test is to measure the distance the bike travels per single turn of the pedals when in the highest (hardest) gear.
Junior category (Under 18) allow the bike travel 7.93 m
Youth A category (Under 16) allow the bike travel 6.93m
Youth B category (Under 14) allow the bike travel 6.45m
Its relatively easy to measure, put the bike in the smallest (hardest) gear and set the pedal vertical, wheel the bike backwards in a straight line for 1 complete turn of the pedal and measure the distance.
Obviously the closer to mark you get the better.
Best thing to do is to take the bike to a decent shop and get them to advise on the best way to convert to the bike, this usually entails a new rear cassette and therefore chain. Ensure the mechanic is aware of what needs to be done, if in doubt get them to give me a call on 07930 406610.
HHYCC or Dulwich Paragon will refund you the first £25 spent on this, so keep the receipt.
Download the BC guide here BC Gear Guide
Charlie
BC regulations for youths racing stipulate a maximum gear ratio allowable per category. This is done primarily to protect younger physically immature riders from pushing too hard a gear and injuring themselves but to a lesser extent to even the fields within the various categories.
In theory all bikes could be checked prior to the race, or a sample after the finish. The regularity of testing varies from event, however experienced judges can easily spot a rider on an unregulated bike - the rider will be tested and if found to be outside the regulations will be disqualified which would be a pity and rather embarrassing.
The easiest test is to measure the distance the bike travels per single turn of the pedals when in the highest (hardest) gear.
Junior category (Under 18) allow the bike travel 7.93 m
Youth A category (Under 16) allow the bike travel 6.93m
Youth B category (Under 14) allow the bike travel 6.45m
Its relatively easy to measure, put the bike in the smallest (hardest) gear and set the pedal vertical, wheel the bike backwards in a straight line for 1 complete turn of the pedal and measure the distance.
Obviously the closer to mark you get the better.
Best thing to do is to take the bike to a decent shop and get them to advise on the best way to convert to the bike, this usually entails a new rear cassette and therefore chain. Ensure the mechanic is aware of what needs to be done, if in doubt get them to give me a call on 07930 406610.
HHYCC or Dulwich Paragon will refund you the first £25 spent on this, so keep the receipt.
Download the BC guide here BC Gear Guide
Charlie
