WHAT GEAR DO YOU NEED FOR YOUTH CYCLING?
In the table below you will find the maximum distances per pedal revolution for both the KNWU (Netherlands) and Belgian Cycling.
Get the most out of your gearing.
Finding the right gearing is a puzzle. Often, standard chainrings (like a 46 or 50) don’t quite cut it: you’re either way below the limit and lose speed, or just above it and get disqualified.
At The Mechanic Parts, we solve this problem. We produce atypical chainrings in-house. This allows you to fine-tune your gearing to the nearest centimeter, right up to the limit. Don’t give up any meters and ride with the maximum gearing allowed.
HOW DOES THE ROLE TEST WORK?
At the start of a race, jury members and commissioners check the bicycle.
- The distance covered may not exceed the limit of your category.
- The chain is placed on the heaviest gear (largest front chainring, smallest rear sprocket).
- The bicycle is ridden backward one full pedal stroke against a measuring stick.
GEAR TABLE NETHERLANDS
These are the maximum gear ratios in the Netherlands for the 2026 season:
| Category | Meters | Colour |
| 1 & 2 | Maximum 5,46 meters | Blue |
| 3 & 4 | Maximum 5,78 meter | Pink |
| 5 & 6 | Maximum 6,14 meter | Green |
| 7 | Maximum 6,55 meter | Yellow |
| Newbies | Maximum 7,41 meter | Orange |
| Juniors | No limitation | Red |
GEAR TABLE BELGIUM (BELGIAN CYCLING)
These are the maximum gear ratios in Belgium for the 2026 season:
| Category | Meters | Colour |
| U8 to U11 | Maximum 5,52 meter | Blue |
| U12 & U13 | Maximum 5,76 meter | Pink |
| U15 | Maximum 6,48 meter | Green |
| U17 | Maximum 7,68 meter | Yellow |
| U19 – National | Maximum 10,16 meter | Orange |
| U19 – UCI | No limitation | Red |