U of W researchers: A safer, more comfortable motorcycle is possible

The most recent data from Statistics Canada shows motorcycles are more popular than ever.

With more of them on the road and more people looking to try them out, a new study from the University of Waterloo is showing how manufacturers can develop bikes that accommodate a wider range of riders.

The study, conducted by researchers in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, used a digital human model (DHM) — a customizable digital avatar of any height, weight or sex — to show how the human body ergonomically interacts with different motorcycle designs.

Researchers found most motorcycles are designed for the average person. That presents problems for taller or shorter riders.

They found that taller riders have to flex their knees, ankles, hips and elbows to properly access the bike’s controls. That can lead to discomfort. The same goes for shorter riders who may have to stretch to reach the controls.

Researchers believe if manufacturers were to use DHMs in the design process they could address some of these issues without having to rely on trial and error.

“The use of DHMs in early two-wheeled motor vehicle design could help manufacturers improve safety, posture and comfort, in addition to saving costs,” said Justin Davidson, Biomechanics PhD candidate in Waterloo’s Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences and co-author of the study, in a press release.

That would also ultimately reduce development costs.

This technology could also be used to design other products, car seats or office chairs.

“DHMs aren’t as commonly used as they could be,” Davidson said in the release.

“Part of our goal in this research is to try to move the field forward in a way that people can use DHM tools more confidently so that we can start intervening and making things better for people earlier on, hopefully making people safer and more comfortable.”