Cycling, a sport celebrated for its athletes' endurance and precision, faces a crucial turning point due to the Union Cycliste Internationale's (UCI) recent regulation on handlebar width. The current ruling imposes restrictions that may not necessarily cater to the diverse physiological needs of cyclists, specifically female and smaller riders, compromising their ergonomic comfort, efficiency, and most importantly, safety.

The UCI's new handlebar regulation is as follows:

• Handlebars must measure a minimum outside-to-outside distance of 40cm.
• Handlebars must measure a minimum inside-to-inside distance between the brake levers of 32cm.

The new "one-size-fits-all" policy does not account for the variety in body types and biomechanics among riders. Cyclists come in all shapes and sizes, and their equipment needs to reflect that diversity. Not every cyclist can perform optimally under the same conditions; some require wider handlebars to accommodate broader shoulders, while others need narrower grips for better control and maneuverability based on their body's build. The regulation particularly impacts female cyclists who, based on our own extensive data base (one of the largest in the world) and other studies, on average require a 38cm handlebar. 

This regulation may inadvertently place riders at risk of injury. Improper bike fitting can lead to chronic pain and musculoskeletal issues. Based on our data base, the new regulations will result in nearly the entire women's peloton and a large number of the men's peloton riding handlebars that are too wide. For optimal biomechanics, most riders benefit from a small amount of internal level rotation. This regulation will make that nearly impossible without an excessively wide handlebar and will result in potential nerve impingements in the wrist. It overlooks critical aspects of rider health and performance that should not be ignored.

It is essential to reconsider this ruling and encourage a more inclusive, science-based approach that allows flexibility in handlebar width adjustments. The UCI should collaborate with professional cyclists, sports scientists, and industry experts to develop guidelines that better serve athletes’ needs while maintaining the integrity of competition.

By signing this petition, you advocate for a change that prioritizes rider's physiological needs and contributes to the advancement of cycling as a sport that values each athlete's unique requirements. Let's urge the UCI to rethink its handlebar width regulations and promote a fairer and safer cycling world. Sign and share this petition today!