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Trunk Impact Conditions in Mountain Biking: Biomechanical Insights for Back Protector Evaluation
Sophie Bonte1,2, Arsène Thouzé2, Wei Wei1
1Laboratoire de Biomécanique Appliquée, Aix-Marseille Université, Université Gustave Eiffel, 13015 Marseille, France.
Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland)
|June 26, 2026
Summary
This study simulated mountain biking crashes to understand trunk impacts. Results reveal key impact types and forces, crucial for designing better back protectors to prevent severe spinal injuries.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sports Science
- Injury Prevention
Background:
- Mountain biking (MTB) is a growing sport with a high risk of severe trunk and spinal injuries.
- Current back protector designs lack realistic crash scenario data.
- Understanding trunk impact dynamics is vital for improving rider safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define trunk impact conditions experienced during mountain biking (MTB) crashes.
- To provide data for the development of more effective back protectors.
- To establish realistic boundary conditions for testing protective gear.
Main Methods:
- Developed and validated a multi-body accident reconstruction model using real-world crash footage.
- Simulated 288 forward crashes, analyzing various initial conditions.
- Assessed trunk impact kinematics, spinal loading, and identified distinct impact types.
Main Results:
- Median normal trunk impact velocity (4.61 m/s) and pseudo-energy (48 J) were comparable to existing standards.
- Significant tangential (5.97 m/s) and rotational (4.90 rad/s) impact components were identified.
- Three primary impact patterns were observed: head-thorax, tumbling, and overflip-back impacts.
Conclusions:
- The study successfully defined trunk impact conditions during MTB crashes.
- Findings provide crucial data for realistic testing and design of MTB back protectors.
- This research contributes to enhancing rider safety through improved protective equipment.
