An investigation of the dynamic safety performance of power-assisted bicycles (PABs)

• Main Author: Aehanz Bin Amran
• Other Authors: Yap Fook Fah
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: Nanyang Technological University 2023
• Subjects: Engineering::Mechanical engineering
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/168413
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

The objective of this project is to investigate the dynamic safety performance of power-assisted bicycles (PABs) in Singapore based on stability and handling tests. The study will be conducted within Nanyang Technological University (NTU). Multiple tests, such as the self-stability test, straight-line test and slalom test, will be conducted on popular PABs in Singapore and conventional big wheel bicycles such as the Montague road bike and a 20” wheel mechanical bike. The stability test conducted on the PABs and conventional big wheel bicycles showed that the majority of the tested models of PABs were mostly stable and gave the riders adequate control. Overall, the investigation revealed that PABs can be a safe mode of transportation in Singapore, provided that riders follow traffic rules and regulations and take appropriate safety measures such as wearing a helmet. However, the analysis also discovered several PAB models that, due to their instability at high speeds, may provide a greater risk of accidents. In short, the objective of this study was achieved, and the following findings will be beneficial to the authorities regulating the use of PABs, such as the Land Transport Authority (LTA). Recommendations for future studies and extension of this project were also provided in this report.