A new methodology for approaching motorcycle riders’ behavior at curved road sections

Objective The present paper focuses on the investigation of motorcycle riders’ behavior at curved road sections by introducing a new methodology based on global positioning system (GPS) technology. In the frame of the research, the determination of the optimum regression curve between the curve radius’ and the corresponding velocities, was investigated. Design Within the context of the paper field measurements were conducted, with the use of appropriate velocity recording equipment in order to confirm the efficiency of the proposed methodology. The measurements were conducted taking into account various factors that potentially influence riders’ behavior such as the different light conditions, the difference on riding experience level, the familiarity of the riders with the routes, the presence of pillion and the different road environments, such as width/condition of the road pavement, roadside land use, right/left hand curves etc. Setting The experimental environment that served the needs of the experiment was mountain Pelion in Magnesia region in Greece and was based upon four primary conditions: the location, the type of the road, the weather conditions and finally, the time and date that the experiment would be conducted. Participants The validation of the proposed methodology was performed by recruiting two motorcyclists. Their selection was based on demographic, psychometric and experience criteria. Results The research showed among others, that the regression curves could be used as a curve classification mean. Moreover, a significant variation was detected on the riders’ behavior when carrying a pillion related to their experience levels.