Edinburgh Napier University

  A defective pavement surface discourages cyclists from selecting certain routes, and vibration exposure is a noticeable
consequence of reduced path surface quality. Current asset management practice includes walkover surveys and
cyclists reporting defects directly to the local authority. This research proposes the use of an instrumented probe
bicycle to collect data for the assessment of pavement condition and rider comfort. Furthermore, the collection of
hand–arm vibration exposure data is proposed as a means of assessing pavement surface condition and suitability.
Hand–arm vibration exposure has been measured in compliance with BS EN ISO 5349-1:2001. Root-mean-square
vibration total values, vibration dose value and exposure values (15, 30 and 60 min) are provided for 13·682 km of
pavement surface in Edinburgh, Scotland. The vibration exposure values are compared to those recommended by
EU Directive 2002/44/EC. Power spectral analysis is also performed to determine the power transferred to the cyclist’s
hands and arms. The collated vibration data may be used as a means of assessing pavement surface condition. Such
data may prove beneficial for local authority asset management associated with resurfacing or repair works.