Motorcycle crash investigation presents a unique set of circumstances to a Crash Reconstructionist. By nature of their single track, articulated geometry a motorcycle has capabilities and limitations not found in other 4-wheeled vehicles.
The motorcycles themselves differ in their performance and handling characteristics. Large cruiser/touring motorcycles perform much differently than modern sportbikes which are simply street legal versions of their race bike counterparts. The performance characteristics of modern sportbikes allow them to both accelerate and decelerate very rapidly without leaving any of the “classic” roadway evidence typically utilized in a crash analysis and reconstruction. Unlike automobiles most motorcycles use a segregated front/rear braking system while a number of motorcycle manufacturers also offer models with integrated braking systems and more recently anti-lock (ABS) brakes and supplemental airbags. The extraordinary performance characteristics and unique braking systems of motorcycles present distinctive challenges to investigators especially when calculating the pre-crash speed of a motorcycle. Similarly, the identification and interpretation of roadway evidence from a motorcycle crash is also unique in the field of crash reconstruction.
Introtech utilizes a multi-disciplined approach to reconstructions involving motorcycles. All of the reconstructionists at Introtech have some specialized knowledge, training or experience in order to understand the unique aspects of motorcycle operation so as to thoroughly investigate those crashes in which involve a motorcycle. In addition to specialized training two of the Reconstructionists at Introtech Mr. Hawn and Mr. Meyer are long-time motorcycle owners and riders and both have decades of motorcycle riding experience on a variety of different bikes.
The experience of Introtech’s reconstructionists includes not only specialized training and years of actual riding but also experience in live dynamic testing including motorcycle drop tests, conspicuity experiments, speed and deceleration testing. Introtech has even performed emergency braking tests in “real world” conditions without the use of out-rigger stabilizers.
