SRAM Challenges UCI's Equipment Limitations in Court Due to Lack of Evidence
In a move that could shake up the cycling world, SRAM, a leading groupset manufacturer, has announced a legal challenge against the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) over its new gearing rules. The challenge was made via the Belgian Competition Authority (BCA) on September 12, 2025.
The new rules, part of a package aimed at improving rider safety and reducing overall velocity, effectively outlaw anything equivalent to or exceeding a 54x10t drivetrain. SRAM, the only groupset manufacturer to offer a 10-tooth sprocket, is the only brand affected by these news.
SRAM argues that there is no sound evidence that higher rollout ratios (harder gears) relate to an increased risk of crashing. The company claims that the new rules will cause potential civil liability from the implication that its systems are less 'safe' than compliant ones.
The new rules have already caused tangible harm, according to SRAM's statement. SRAM teams may resort to using longer limit screws to physically prevent the derailleur from accessing the 10t sprocket, but this is far from an ideal solution. This gearing restriction will reduce gear options for SRAM-equipped riders, placing them at a competitive disadvantage compared to Shimano and Campagnolo teams.
SRAM's sponsorship includes teams like Lidl-Trek, Visma-Lease A Bike, and Movistar, who will also be impacted by these news. The company is claiming that the new rules will cause loss of retailer and OEM support, erosion of global market share, and 'up to a decade of reinvestment to recover'.
To halt the gearing restrictions from coming into force, SRAM is seeking immediate injunctive relief to stop the requirement at the Guangxi event and any future events. The BCA will investigate whether the UCI's 'Maximum Gearing' technical standard amounts to an anticompetitive decision.
Not everyone is in favour of the new safety rules. Many professional riders, including Tom Pidcock, are openly critical of the new regulations. The challenge posed by SRAM could lead to a reevaluation of the UCI's approach to rider safety and competition rules.
As the situation unfolds, it's clear that SRAM's legal challenge could have significant implications for the cycling world, potentially reshaping the landscape of gearing options and competition.
