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UCI's sudden ban on Visma-Lease a Bike's self-inflating tyre technology just two weeks before Paris-Roubaix has left the team in disbelief. This unexpected decision could significantly impact their performance in one of cycling's most challenging races.
The KAPS (Kinetic Air Pressure System), developed by Gravaa, was extensively tested by the team and played a crucial role in previous successes, including Marianne Vos's victory at the 2025 Gravel World Championships. Despite Gravaa's bankruptcy in January, Visma-Lease a Bike continued to utilize the technology, recently racing with it in the GP Denain.
Team Head of Performance, Mathieu Heijboer, expressed frustration over the lack of prior notice, suggesting the timing of the ban is no coincidence. The UCI's rules emphasize that equipment must be commercially available, raising questions about the future of innovative cycling technologies.
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