Assessing functional, comfort and aesthetic needs of Indian male riders from motorcycle clothing

Abstract

The number of motorcycle riders is growing at a phenomenal rate in India and so is the number of crashes involving them. The use of motorcycle protective clothing (PPE) is known to reduce the severity of soft tissue injuries to motorcyclists in the case of a crash. The PPE currently available in India is imported and not designed to meet the unique weather, road, and riding conditions prevalent in India. In this study, a conceptual framework based on Functional, Comfort and Aesthetic (FCA) requirements of motorcycle riders is proposed for the design of motorcycle PPE. Data regarding the FCA requirements of Indian riders was collected through a questionnaire. Riding habits, risk factors, factors affecting the buying decisions for motorcycle clothing, awareness regarding protection standards, satisfaction with currently owned motorcycling clothing and requirements of comfort and aesthetics from motorcycle clothing were studied. 217 Riders aged 18–45 years from 10 major Indian cities responded to the online survey questionnaire. Most riders reported facing heat stress, wet stress (dues to sweating), restricted mobility, and dissatisfaction with the fit of the currently available motorcycle clothing. Satisfaction with the available colours and styles was also reported to be low. The results of the survey show that currently available riders’ clothing is not as per requirements of Indian riders. It fails to provide adequate thermal comfort to users, which may compromise rider safety during long rides. Findings of this study can be used by motorcycle clothing designers and manufacturers to design clothing as per the requirements of Indian riders. Improved thermal and psychological comfort can improve rider focus, may contribute to crash prevention and protect the rider from grievous injuries during a crash.