Updating keeps ISO 7117 up to speed on motorcycles

The International Standard ISO 7117 which gives manufacturers and testing bodies a methodology for measuring the maximum speed of motorcycles has been updated to provide more accurate results in the light of evolving technology.

In this third edition, all the test methods and conditions such as accuracy of the measurement system and climatic conditions are reviewed and updated. ISO 7117:2010, Motorcycles – Measurement method for determining maximum speed, describes the different steps as follows:

– Preparation of test motorcycle
– Rider and rider position
– Measurement equipment and accuracies
– Test tracks
– Atmospheric conditions
– Test procedure and calculation of average speed
– Presentation of result.

Some of test methods specified in the previous version of ISO 7117 have become obsolete and unpractical. For instance, the older editions ISO 7117 allowed the "hand flag" and "stop watch" measuring method. The updated version of the standard has stipulated devices and technologies such as phototubes and electronic counters to enhance the measurement accuracy.

The test method and conditions on circle-type test tracks, which are used in several regions, are also revised substantially to provide consistency with testing results on straight test tracks and on roadways when the latter are unavailable.

Mr. Mikio Kato, Chair of the ISO subcommittee that developed the standard, comments, "ISO 7117:2010 gives testers useful information on test equipment and ambient atmospheric conditions that should be respected to ensure the accuracy of measurement of the speed of motorcycles. The updated standard, by reflecting the most recent measuring technologies, will provide more accurate and useful test practices to motorcycle manufactures and testing bodies."

ISO 7117:2010, Motorcycles – Measurement method for determining maximum speed, was developed by ISO technical committee ISO/TC 22, Road vehicles, subcommittee SC 22, Motorcycles and is available from ISO national member institutes (see the complete list with contact details). It may also be obtained directly from the ISO Central Secretariat, price 92 Swiss francs, through the ISO Store or by contacting the Marketing, Communication & Information department (see right-hand column).