Evaluating human performance and the physical demands associated with cycling in simulated environments

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Cycling is a popular mode of transportation and a desired choice for exercise and fitness enthusiasts. The future of cycling is now recognized as an integral part of urban mobility and global electric-assisted (e-bike) production and sales are increasing rapidly. Future e-bike design must focus on improving the user assistance criteria, depending on the desired end user effect. Ergonomics and human factors provides a connection between kinesiology and engineering to optimize the human-machine interaction. Cycling performance is affected by fitness level, environment, mechanical, and human factors and this proposal will measure the variables needed to guide future e-bike decisions for pre-set modes/categories for assistance. The purpose is to perform a biomechanical and physiological evaluation of human performance during cycling in simulated environments to derive prediction equations for various assistance levels. Using a state-of-the-art climatic wind tunnel, participants will be required to cycle in simulated environmental conditions while on a stationary indoor bike trainer. Muscle activity, pedal force, heart rate, breathing rate, tidal volume, minute ventilation, galvanic skin response, skin temperature and core temperature will be monitored. Data on cycling in simulated climatic wind environments is lacking and research on e-bike performance and human performance in a variety of simulated environments will lead to sophisticated and cutting-edge bike technology. This project will provide many benefits to Canada, including economic, environmental and health benefits. The encouragement of e-bike use, a form of active transportation, can promote physical fitness and well-being, leading to a healthier lifestyle and lower healthcare costs. E-bikes can also reduce the need for personal or public transportation, which can lead to an environmental impact.