Motorcycle Collision Experiments

Seven collision experiments were conducted, each with a motorcycle and rider striking the side of a passenger car. Speed at impact, size of motorcycle, and position impacted along the side of the passenger car represent the independent variables studied. The delivery system used for this series of motorcycle collisions is described, along with related methodology. Photographic and electronic instrumentation systems were used for obtaining essential engineering data.

Findings include:

1. 1.
   Body kinematics for a motorcyclist during collision.
2. 2.
   Collision dynamics of the impacting vehicles, including measurements of maximum mutual collapse.
3. 3.
   Deceleration values for the motorcycle and for the head, chest, and hips of the rider.
4. 4.
   Peak acceleration values for the struck passenger vehicle and its occupant.
5. 5.
   Calibration of damages sustained by car and motorcycle for impacts at known speeds and for specific sizes of motorcycles.

In addition, specific recommendations are provided for reducing motorcyclists' exposure to injury.