Citation

Beck R. Accid. Reconstr. J. 2009; 19(4): 49-56.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Accident Reconstruction Journal)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Many traffic collisions involve mountain bicycles. A key aspect of reconstructing these collisions is the braking and acceleration capability of the bicycle. There are currently few published sources of acceleration, braking, and rolling resistance data for mountain bicycles. This research aimed to fill this void by conducting 116 acceleration, braking, and rolling resistance tests. Test results demonstrate the superiority of the front brake over the rear brake, and only slightly better overall braking on pavement than on dirt. The stopping ability of the rear brake is about 76% of the front brake, and is about 65% of the front and rear brakes combined. Acceleration rates were found to be about 25% higher on pavement than on dirt.