New bike simulator helps understand rider behaviour
By: Web Editor
Are more experienced motorcyclists safer on the roads than those who are newly qualified? And do advanced motoring qualifications make you a better rider?
New research at The University of Nottingham could help to understand the differences in rider behaviour using a unique motorcycle simulator — the first of its kind in the world.
Funded by the Institute for Advanced Motorists (IAM), the research project will investigate different rider behaviours, including forward planning, hazard perception and levels of risk taking.
The simulator uses a Triumph Daytona 675 – kindly donated by Triumph – mounted on a custom rig, which was designed and built at the University. This provides a full-size interactive platform running ‘STI-SIM Drive’ simulation software that projects different riding scenarios onto a huge screen in front of the motorcycle. The result is a highly innovative laboratory-based riding experience that provides researchers with a powerful tool for investigating rider behaviour.
Dr Alex Stedmon, a lecturer in the School of Mechanical, Materials and Manufacturing Engineering's Centre for Motorcycle Ergonomics and Rider Human Factors, is leading the project. He is working alongside Dr David Crundall from the Department of Psychology in what is a pioneering research venture between the two academic departments.
“We’re extremely excited about being invited onto this research as it links into previous work in psychology, but takes it forward in an exciting new way with the use of dedicated simulation trials. These just haven’t been possible before,” said Dr Crundall.
“With different motorcyclists experiencing exactly the same riding scenarios and recording their individual responses, researchers can begin to look at differences in individual riding styles and how rider differences translate into behaviour on the road,” Dr Stedmon added.
The simulator project is currently looking for more volunteers: if you would like to take part, please email editorial@motorcyclemonthly.co.uk with your contact details, plus age, riding experience and what bike you currently ride.
3 Responses to “New bike simulator helps understand rider behaviour”
Dangerous Dave Says:
September, 14th 2010 at 09:32 am
any kind of inproving road skills is fantastick, i have been working twards the advanced test now for about twelve months and am wating for my test date,
i have noticed a big inprovemen within my road skills,
silverbackGSXR Says:
September, 4th 2010 at 12:31 pm
i feel this be a good thing and feel that my riding skills would of benifit to this program new simulator program
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ijohn5@ntlworld.com Says:
September, 22nd 2010 at 08:58 am
I'm all in favour of better riding skills, but like most 'studies' and research, the simulator is unlikely to give accurate data.
Odds on, all volunteers will be 'sensible' riders, thus removing the hooligan element from the study. Likewise, anyone volunteering, is more likely to be on their best behaviour, rather than ride naturally, further influencing the result.