Youth Road Racing

In 2015 British Cycling approved significant changes to the youth competition programme from 2016 and made further updates for the 2025 season.

Youth Age Groupings

Correct for 2025 road season:

Youth E Under 8 born in 2016 or earlier
Until 31 December of year in which 8th birthday falls

Youth D Under 10 born in 2014 or 2015
From 1 January of year in which 9th birthday falls to 31 December of year in which 10th birthday falls

Youth C Under 12 born in 2012 or 2013
From 1 January of year in which 11th birthday falls to 31 December of year in which 12th birthday falls

Youth B Under 14 born in 2010 or 2011
From 1 January of year in which 13th birthday falls to 31 December of year in which 14th birthday falls (or upgraded from Youth C).

Youth A Under 16 born in 2008 or 2009
From 1 January of year in which 15th birthday falls to 31 December of year in which 16th birthday falls (or upgraded from Youth B).

Junior born in 2006 or 2007
From 1 January of year in which 17th birthday falls to 31 December of year in which 18th birthday falls.

Youth gear restrictions

The maximum gear that can be selected and used on a bike must be within the stated roll back distance in the table below. It’s easier if the gear distances are marked out on the ground using a long tape measure.

To measure:

1. The bike must be in the maximum selectable gear
2. Position the bike at a zero point on level ground with the cranks in a vertical position
3. Roll the bike backwards (rear wheel leading) for one full revolution of the crank until the crank is vertical and exactly in its starting position
4. Measure the exact distance the bike has travelled, using the crank as the start / stop point.

To adjust gears, use the lockouts to prevent the chain from using one or more of the smallest sprockets, and on many bikes you may need to lock out the larger front chain ring too. It is possible to get the appropriate rear cassette and front ring combination to avoid having the lock rings out but this does come at a cost.  Something to think about if purchasing a new bike.  Don’t worry though if you are new to gear restrictions other club members will help out.

Youth Wheel Restrictions

British Cycling updated their Equipment regulations in 2015 and then further updated in 2025 to reduce the cost, perceived or real, of competing. For Youth B rim depth is limited to a maximum 40mm and for younger riders limited to a maximum of 35mm.

Note that from 1st March 2027 rim depth for Youth A riders will be limited to a maximum of 40mm. From the same date Youth A riders will no longer be permitted to use disc wheels or 3, 4 or 5 spoke wheels.