Determination of Urban Cycling-Induced Hand-Arm Vibration and Mitigation

Concerns exist in the cycling community and in relevant literature that cycling-induced, hand-arm vibration in urban environments could amount to unsafe or unduly uncomfortable levels. Published studies focus on controlled, unrepresentative samples or unusually rough surfaces. This research aims to provide vibration exposure information specific to and representative of urban bicycle commuters.

A programme of triaxial vibration levels and vibration exposure measurements was undertaken on a representative rigid bicycle for different conditions at the handlebar. A varied and representative sample of London (UK) roads used for commuting was employed. The effect of front shock absorbers was studied. Results were assessed against safe and comfortable levels of vibration found in relevant guidance and in occupational regulations.

It was found that cycling on typical urban roads and cycle routes does not expose riders to unsafe levels of hand-arm vibration. However values reached levels of discomfort potentially leading to early fatigue and discomfort. The different effectiveness of traditional suspension and novel suspension in the stem was determined and their virtues compared.