Motorcycle Barriers
Guardrail safety barriers are effective in the containment and redirection of passenger vehicles, however they may cause injuries to a dismounted motorcycle rider. Motorcyclists are classified as vulnerable road users and designers should consider the features of the safety barrier system to minimise harm.
The exposed posts of a guardrail safety barrier system present a significant risk to motorcyclists. The installation of a motorcycle protection rail system or rub-rail is considered the most appropriate treatment solution. The rub-rail is positioned underneath and parallel to the guardrail beam, shielding the guardrail posts. The rub-rail panels are typically supported by spring brackets that absorb the impact energy of a sliding, dismounted motorcyclist rider.
BikerShield provides safe rider containment and redirection through the combination of spring mounting brackets and lightweight, corrugated panels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a vulnerable road user?
A vulnerable road user is any person at increased risk of injury in a crash due to limited physical protection compared to vehicle occupants.
What are the risks of guardrail barriers to motorcycle riders?
Guardrail barriers can present risks to motorcyclists, primarily because riders are unprotected and can collide directly with the barrier structure during a crash. Exposed steel posts can present a snagging risk to a sliding, dismounted rider.
What is a motorcycle protection rail system?
A motorcycle protection rail system or rub rail is a longitudinal barrier that is positioned below the guardrail beam. The motorcycle protection rail system shields the guardrail posts reducing the risk to motorcycle riders.
What is the crash test standard for the evaluation of motorcycle barrier?
European Standard EN 1317-8 specifies performance classes and test methods for systems designed to reduce injury severity to motorcyclists who collide with safety barriers. Tests involve a dummy sliding into the barrier at 60 km/h. The system’s performance is rated using the Acceleration Severity Index (ASI) and head and body injury criteria.
Does the attachment of a motorcycle protection rail system affect the crashworthiness of the guardrail barrier system?
Acceptance of motorcycle protection rail systems by Australian state road agencies requires a vehicle crash test demonstrating that the attachment of the motorcycle barrier does not adversely affect safe vehicle containment and redirection
Can motorcycle protection rail systems be installed on curved roadways?
The steel beam used in the assembly of a motorcycle protection rail system is lightweight to allow the barrier to follow a curved alignment.
Can I retrofit an existing guardrail barrier with a motorcycle protection rail system?
Yes. Exiting guardrail systems may be upgraded with a motorcycle protection rail system.
How do I terminate the ends of the motorcycle protection rail system?
A specially designed bullnose is used to terminate the ends of the motorcycle protection rail system and shield sharp edges.
Can the motorcycle protection rail system be installed within the guardrail end terminal section?
No. The motorcycle protection rail system should be terminated before the guardrail end terminal. The guardrail end terminal is designed to absorb or dissipate vehicle impact energy in an end-on collision. The attachment of a motorcycle protection rail system in this region may affect the function of the guardrail end terminal.
Can the motorcycle protection rail systems be attached to wire rope safety barriers?
No. Currently motorcycle protection rail systems are limited to installation on guardrail barriers only.
