抄録
The aim of this study is to recommend revisions, based on empirical data, to the current curb ramp standards for keeping bicyclists safe. Four types of curb ramps were tested: (1) concrete with a 50 mm edge height, (2) concrete reinforced by a metal plate with a 50 mm edge height, (3) plastic with a 20 mm edge height, and (4) recycled rubber with a 10 mm edge height. Twenty subjects aged 20uu60 years ascended the curbs on a bicycle under various conditions. The angles of approach were 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75° and 90°. Experiments were executed under both wet and dry conditions. We found that when approaching from an angle of 45° or more, all subjects could ascend all ramps under both conditions. From a 15° approach under wet conditions, no subjects ascended the concrete ramps. Some could not ascend at a 15° approach on the concrete ramps in dry conditions, and some could not ascend from a 30° approach on the reinforced concrete ramp in wet conditions. Bicyclists riding on roadways cannot easily ascend a curb ramp with a 50 mm edge, even in dry conditions. We thus recommend that curb ramp edge heights be lower than 50 mm.
