Why trust Bike Test Aachen?

Experience in all areas of safety and testing technology has been gained during 20 years of collaboration and cooperation with the Institute of Machine Elements (Prof. v. d. Osten-Sacken) at TU Aachen. 

Countless dynamic endurance tests have been carried out on behalf of many well-known bicycle manufacturers/importers during these many years of activity at TU Aachen. 

In addition, knowledge of the legal situation is also part of the expertise of BIKE TEST AACHEN.

 

What is HCF (High Cycle Fatigue) testing technology?

HCF testing technology enables tests with high load cycles. At a test frequency of around 20 Hz, over 1 million load cycles per day can be achieved, depending on the stiffness of the component.

The testing machine works according to the resonance principle. It does not operate close to the resonance of the test specimen, but close to the resonance of the entire testing system.

This means that service life testing can be carried out quickly, accurately, reliably and COST-EFFECTIVELY in accordance with suitable test conditions or current standards (DIN-EN, ISO, NF, JS, etc.).​

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How are the bicycles/bicycle components tested?

In accordance with DIN EN standards or according to stricter criteria as desired. 

With HCF (High Cycle Fatigue) and MFP (Multi Force Pulser) testing technology.

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What is MFP (Multi Force Pulser) testing technology?

(MFP) Multi Force Pulser – This new technology with multi-axis force application allows for the ‘realistic simulation’ of complex operating loads on bicycles.

‘Operating load simulation’ in time-lapse testing has long been state of the art for complete cars.

With the MFP, developed at the Technical University of Aachen back in 2000, this method is now also possible for complete bicycles. All safety-relevant components on the fully assembled bicycle are tested simultaneously and controlled via a PC in their respective clamps.

The procedure is identical to that used in the automotive industry.

Using different types of bicycles (BMX, city, children's, MTB, racing and trekking) and different riders, typical routes were cycled according to the area of use of these bikes and the operating loads were determined. These were then condensed in a PC, i.e. only the damaging parts of the loads were counted, while the non-damaging parts were converted. Special software was used to perform various load sequences on the MFP.

This means that distances of 10,000 kilometres can now be simulated in approximately 3 to 5 days.

This simulation, which is based on scientific methods, has no disadvantages in terms of predicting service life if corrosion influences are taken into account in other ways. A 1:1 reproduction of the operating loads is impossible for compelling technical reasons, even if (often) the opposite is claimed.

Why carry out safety tests according to stricter criteria?

Tests according to DIN EN standards are not a sufficient criterion for 10 years of use (requirement §30 StVZO) and safety (state of science and research) with regard to 10-year liability in accordance with the Product Liability Act (ProdHG) up to €75,000,000 per claim. 

Safety testing according to stricter criteria (such as those developed by Prof. v. d. Osten-Sacken - RWTH Aachen) and ongoing statistically verifiable production and quality control are sufficient criteria for 10 years of use (requirement §30 StVZO) and safety (state of science and research) with regard to the 10-year liability in accordance with ProdHG up to €75,000,000 per claim. 

In court, the manufacturer can ONLY EXONERATE ITSELF UNDER THE ProdHG IF IT HAS DONE EVERYTHING POSSIBLE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE STATE OF THE ART OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY TO ENSURE SAFETY.

INTENTIONAL OR NEGLIGENT FAILURE BY MANAGEMENT TO TAKE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS MAY NOT ONLY JEOPARDISE THE COMPANY'S INSURANCE COVERAGE, BUT MAY ALSO BE CRIMINALLY RELEVANT FOR ALL MANAGERS UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.

 

What do you test?

Frames, forks, handlebars, stems, seat posts, brakes, complete bicycles, wheels. 

Tests on other bicycle components (e.g. drive, pedals, saddle) as well as accessories and attachments (e.g. luggage racks) can also be carried out quickly and cost-effectively. 

Tests on complete children's bicycles, tandems or BMX bikes are possible at short notice by arrangement.

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Do you also test electric bicycles (e-bikes)?

Yes, we also test electric bicycles (e-bikes).

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Do the tests take different types of cyclists into account?

Yes. ​​

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Are you responsible if there is a problem with a tested bicycle?

No, we are not responsible for problems with a tested bicycle, as we only carry out the tests in accordance with the agreed test conditions or applicable standards. Responsibility for the product itself remains with the manufacturer or client.

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Do you offer individual tests?

Yes, we also carry out individual tests on an ad hoc basis. These tests can be carried out according to customer-specific test criteria.

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How can we contact you?

Email: werner.kistemann@gmx.net or biketestaachen@gmail.com

Tel.: +49 172 213 88 34

Via the contact form.