IMU-based Assessment of Rider Kinematics in Motocross - a pilot study

Abstract

In vehicle development, the simulation of the mechanical system is already well advanced, while especially in two-wheelers the factor ‘rider’ is mostly simplified or fully omitted. In Motocross sports, the athlete’s posture and weight shift play a substantial role for efficiency and performance. The absence of objective measurement data alongside subjective feedback underscores the need to quantify rider and motorcycle kinematics during different Motocross maneuvers. In this pilot investigation, two male participants were riding on a Motocross circuit with two combustion motorcycle variants for six laps. Inertial measurement units were used to analyze the athletes’ postures during a cornering and jumping maneuver in the field by recording the position and orientation of all body segments as well as the approximation of the approximation of the center of mass. The results showed that between the two analyzed motorcycles, differing knee and hip angles and center of mass characteristics could be observed in specific parts of the maneuvers performed. Movement patterns can be identified and can help to analyze kinematics depending on varying motorcycle characteristics. Based on these results, conclusions about efficiency and performance can be drawn to assess and improve riding technique of motorsports athletes and aid vehicle development. In further steps, the data could be used to build a more realistic rider model for different riding scenarios to improve simulation routines.

Keywords: Inertial Measurement Units, Rider Posture, Kinematics, Motocross, Maneuver Analysis, Center of Mass, Joint angle

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1005784