UCI asks pro riders for feedback as it prepares to start second disc brake trial

The UCI is asking for feedback from riders as it plans to allow disc brake use again for 2017 after a Paris-Roubaix crash this April caused their ban and a rethink on their safety in the peloton.

>>> The world’s first TT bike with disc brakes (video)

As reported by Cycling Weekly in early September, the use of disc brakes will resume next year for a test period from January.

Professional cyclists received a letter on Friday detailing the governing body's plans for rounded edge and protective shields. It asked for feedback in the letter, which a cyclist shared with CW.

"We would welcome your feedback concerning the potential re-start of the trial in early 2017," read the letter sent from Mark Barfield, UCI technical director.

"If the trial is re-started we would also like to encourage you to feedback as much as possible during this trial period. This would be a genuine test period and not a phased introduction and as such rider input is vital in the decision making process about the future authorisation for disc brake use in road competition."

Spaniard Francisco Ventoso (Movistar) crashed in Paris-Roubaix and said that the deep muscle cut to his left leg was caused by a disc brake. The UCI, only four mouths after allowing them, banned their use in professional races in the following week.

Only teams Direct Energie and Lampre-Merida used disc brakes in the race, but they both told CW that none of their riders crashed in the same sector with Ventoso. It placed question marks over the incident and Ventoso's claim.

Regardless, cyclists complained and likened them to spinning knives. In the last week, Sam Bewley (Orica-BikeExchange) posted a photo showing burns from a hot disc that he collided with.

The UCI is addressing those concerns before the 2017 season starts with the Tour Down Under on January 19. Barfield said the International Association of Professional Cycling teams (AIGCP) and the Association of Professional Cyclists (CPA) were onboard.

"The manufacturers have worked hard to make some adaptations to the discs following feedback and experience," he added.

"The discs will now have rounded edges which greatly reduces the potential for injury and will speed up wheel changes. The cycling industry has also worked hard to address the other concerns expressed such as heat build up and dissipation, difference in braking ability and provision of neutral service.

"The trial would be formally monitored every month and a working group would be formed to look at any additional adaptations that can be made to further enhance disc brakes in road competition."