1/25/07 by Bob Grimm
Gear Restriction for Juniors
This new rule from USA Cycling regarding Junior Gear Restrictions is just another way the USA Cycling can try to get around law suits for injuries. I also think that this rule is absurd. Gear restrictions for kids under 14 is probably a good safety feature to keep their speed in check and avoid future knee problems. When these kids turn 14 coaches have them in weight rooms doing all kinds of exercises with unlimited amounts of weight. For the older juniors they don't need any handicap with gear restriction, for any of their events or senior events. I don't think the rule was created to protect the riders but to protect the USCF. Competition should be fair for all involved, this isn't.
I suggest for RATL that we don't limit anyone on their gearing to make things fair for all our racers. What do you say? I wonder where the new Ohio Cycling Federation stands on this issue?