Three-time Olympian David McCann riding the TT at the World Championships in Copenhagen two years ago (Photo taken by Gary McIlroy)
Riders taking part in the time trial at the National Championships today, Thursday, are being urged to sign on early and avail of bike checks to ensure their bikes comply with stringent UCI regulations.
At the time trial championships in Monaghan two years ago a significant number of riders were effectively caught out when their bikes were checked just before their start time; apparently unaware that the set-up of their time trial position was at odds with the UCI’s regulations.
This led to tools being produced and positions adjusted literally on the start line, which caused considerable panic for the riders and seriously disrupted their pre race mental preparation.
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In a smaller number of cases riders did not ride the race because they realised too close to their start times that their TT positions were illegal and did not have time to adjust them. Because the nationals attract UCI points, the UCI rules around TT positions must be strictly enforced by the commissaires on the day.
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There were fewer problems at the championships last year, but there were still some.
In an effort to prevent a repeat of some of the difficulties at this evening's TT near Carlingford, Co Louth, bike checks will be available from early afternoon at sign-on.
Commissaire Gary McIlroy tells us that an official UCI ‘measuring jig’ will be on hand and that it will be available to check bikes from the opening of sign on at 1.30pm, leaving plenty of time for adjustments if positions are found to be non-compliant.
“Any competitors unsure as to whether their bike will satisfy the criteria should arrive early to allow themselves enough time to make adjustments prior to their start,” said McIlroy.
Riders wishing to learn more about the UCI rules on TT positions should click here for details: https://storage.stickybottle.com/prod/uploads/2012/06/TT-Bike-Specification.pdf
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