Modal Analysis of a Utility Bicycle From the Perspective of Riding Comfort

Abstract The correlation between the modal properties and the comfort characteristics of a utility, step-through frame bicycle are investigated. In-plane modal testing of the vehicle is carried out both without and with the rider, and the major differences between the results obtained with the two conditions are highlighted. In order to have an insight into the contribution of the various bicycle components to the transmission of vibrations, the frequency response functions (FRFs) between the main interface points in the vehicle structure are measured and studied. Finally, the modal characteristics are compared with road tests data, emphasizing the relationship between the in-plane vibration modes and the main peaks in the acceleration power spectral densities (PSDs) measured on the road.