ISO 4210-2:2023

Cycles - Safety requirements for bicycles - Part 2: Requirements for city and trekking, young adult, mountain and racing bicycles

This document specifies safety and performance requirements for the design, assembly, and testing of bicycles and sub-assemblies, and lays down guidelines for manufacturer’s instructions on the use and care of such bicycles. This document applies to young adult bicycles with maximum saddle height of 635 mm or more and less than 750 mm, city and trekking bicycles, mountain bicycles, and racing bicycles that have a maximum saddle height of 635 mm or more including folding bicycles. This document does not apply to specialized types of bicycle, such as delivery bicycles, recumbent bicycles, tandems, BMX bicycles, and bicycles designed and equipped for use in severe applications such as sanctioned competition events, stunting, or aerobatic manoeuvres. NOTE For bicycles with a maximum saddle height of 435 mm or less, see national regulations for ride-on toys, and with a maximum saddle height of more than 435 mm and less than 635 mm, see ISO 8098.

Cycles — Exigences de sécurité pour les bicyclettes — Partie 2: Exigences pour bicyclettes de ville et tout chemin (trekking), jeunes adultes, tout-terrain et de course

Le présent document spécifie les exigences de sécurité et de performance à observer lors de la conception, de l'assemblage et des essais des bicyclettes et de leurs sous-ensembles, et précise les lignes directrices concernant les instructions d'utilisation et d'entretien fournies par les fabricants de ces bicyclettes. Le présent document s'applique aux bicyclettes jeunes adultes ayant une hauteur maximale de selle supérieure ou égale à 635 mm et inférieure à 750 mm, aux bicyclettes de ville et tout chemin, aux bicyclettes tout terrain et aux bicyclettes de course ayant une hauteur maximale de selle supérieure ou égale à 635 mm, y compris les bicyclettes pliantes. Le présent document ne s'applique pas aux types spécialisés de bicyclettes comme les bicyclettes de livraison, les bicyclettes couchées, les tandems, les bicyclettes BMX et les bicyclettes conçues et équipées pour une utilisation dans des usages sévères telles que des compétitions réglementées, des cascades ou des figures acrobatiques. NOTE Pour les bicyclettes dont la hauteur maximale de selle est inférieure ou égale à 435 mm, se reporter aux réglementations nationales sur les jouets à enfourcher, et pour une hauteur maximale de selle supérieure à 435 mm et inférieure à 635 mm, voir l'ISO 8098.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 10-Jan-2023
• ICS: 43.150 - Cycles
• Technical Committee: ISO/TC 149/SC 1 - Cycles and major sub-assemblies
• Drafting Committee: ISO/TC 149/SC 1/WG 13 - Revision of the series of ISO 4210:2014 and ISO 8098:2014
• Current Stage: 6060 - International Standard published
• Start Date: 11-Jan-2023
• Due Date: 12-Sep-2022
• Completion Date: 11-Jan-2023

Relations

• Consolidates: ISO 37182:2022 - Smart community infrastructures - Smart transportation for fuel efficiency and pollution emission reduction in bus transportation services
• Effective Date: 06-Jun-2022
• Revises: ISO 4210-2:2015 - Cycles - Safety requirements for bicycles - Part 2: Requirements for city and trekking, young adult, mountain and racing bicycles
• Effective Date: 23-Apr-2020

Overview - ISO 4210-2:2023 (Bicycle safety for city, trekking, young adult, mountain & racing bikes)

ISO 4210-2:2023 is the third-edition international standard that specifies safety and performance requirements for the design, assembly and testing of a broad range of bicycles: city and trekking, young adult (saddle height ≥ 635 mm and < 750 mm), mountain and racing bicycles (including folding bicycles with saddle height ≥ 635 mm). The standard also sets out guidelines for manufacturer’s instructions on the use and care of these bicycles. It excludes specialized types such as delivery bikes, recumbents, tandems, BMX, and bikes intended for sanctioned competition, stunting or aerobatics. For lower saddle-height categories it refers to ISO 8098 or national ride‑on toy regulations.

Key technical topics and requirements (high level)

ISO 4210-2 covers a comprehensive set of safety topics and mandated tests to reduce risk and ensure reliability. Key areas include:

• Braking systems: braking performance, hand-operated and back-pedal brakes, heat resistance, brake-pad security and strength tests.
• Steering and control: handlebar dimensions, grips, stem insertion marks/positive stops, clamping, steering stability, static strength and fatigue tests.
• Frame and front fork: impact tests, fatigue tests (pedalling, horizontal, vertical), suspension-frame specific requirements, fork tensile/bending and rearward impact tests.
• Wheels and tyres: concentricity, clearance, static strength, retention (axles/quick releases), overpressure and heat tests for composite rims.
• Pedals, crankset and drive train: pedal strength/impact/durability tests, crank fatigue, drive-chain and drive-belt requirements, chain-wheel guards.
• Saddles and seat-posts: limiting dimensions, insertion-depth marks/positive stops, static and fatigue tests.
• Safety-related components and hazards: sharp edges, exposed protrusions, toxicity, security of safety fasteners, crack detection.
• Additional systems: lighting, reflectors, warning device, mudguards, luggage carriers, marking and user instructions.
• Assembly and performance testing: full-assembly road test and information for users.

Practical applications - who uses ISO 4210-2 and why

ISO 4210-2 is used by:

• Bicycle manufacturers and component suppliers for product design, type approval and product development to meet recognized safety expectations.
• Test laboratories and certification bodies to perform standardized static, fatigue, impact and performance tests.
• Quality and safety engineers for production control, failure analysis and conformity assessment.
• Retailers, procurement teams and fleet operators to specify compliant city, trekking, mountain and racing bicycles.
• Regulators and consumer safety organizations to reference objective safety criteria.

Using ISO 4210-2 helps demonstrate conformity with international bicycle safety best practice, reduce warranty/service costs, and improve user safety and product reliability.

Related standards

• ISO 4210 series (other parts of the bicycle safety standard)
• ISO 8098 (bicycles for young children / ride-on toys)

Keywords: ISO 4210-2, bicycle safety, city bicycle standard, trekking bicycle requirements, young adult bicycle, mountain bike safety, racing bicycle testing, bicycle standards, safety requirements for bicycles.

Standards Content (Sample)

INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 4210-2
Third edition
2023-01
Cycles — Safety requirements for
bicycles —
Part 2:
Requirements for city and trekking,
young adult, mountain and racing
bicycles
Cycles — Exigences de sécurité pour les bicyclettes —
Partie 2: Exigences pour bicyclettes de ville et tout chemin (trekking),
jeunes adultes, tout-terrain et de course
Reference number
© ISO 2023
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this publication may
be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting on
the internet or an intranet, without prior written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address below
or ISO’s member body in the country of the requester.
ISO copyright office
CP 401 • Ch. de Blandonnet 8
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva
Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Website: www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii
Contents Page
Foreword .v
Introduction .vii
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 2
4 Requirements . 2
4.1 Toxicity . 2
4.2 Sharp edges . 2
4.3 Security and strength of safety-related fasteners . 2
4.3.1 Security of screws . 2
4.3.2 Minimum failure torque . 2
4.3.3 Folding bicycle mechanism . 2
4.4 Crack detection methods . 3
4.5 Exposed protrusions . 3
4.6 Brakes . 3
4.6.1 Braking systems . 3
4.6.2 Hand-operated brakes . 3
4.6.3 Attachment of brake assembly and cable requirements . 4
4.6.4 Brake-block and brake-pad assemblies — Security test . 5
4.6.5 Brake adjustment . 5
4.6.6 Hand-operated braking-system — Strength test . 5
4.6.7 Back-pedal braking system — Strength test. 5
4.6.8 Braking performance . 5
4.6.9 Brakes — Heat-resistance test . . 8
4.7 Steering . 8
4.7.1 Handlebar — Dimensions . 8
4.7.2 Handlebar grips and plugs . 9
4.7.3 Handlebar stem — Insertion-depth mark or positive stop . 9
4.7.4 Handlebar stem to fork steerer — Clamping requirements . 10
4.7.5 Steering stability . 10
4.7.6 Steering assembly — Static strength and security tests . 11
4.7.7 Handlebar and stem assembly — Fatigue test .12
4.8 Frames .12
4.8.1 Suspension-frames — Special requirements .12
4.8.2 Frame — Impact test (falling mass) . 13
4.8.3 Frame and front fork assembly — Impact test (falling frame) .13
4.8.4 Frame — Fatigue test with pedalling forces .13
4.8.5 Frame — Fatigue test with horizontal forces . .13
4.8.6 Frame — Fatigue test with a vertical force .13
4.8.7 Rear brake mount tests . 14
4.9 Front fork . 14
4.9.1 General . 14
4.9.2 Means of location of the axle and wheel retention . 14
4.9.3 Tyre clearance test — Suspension fork . 14
4.9.4 Front fork — Tensile test . 14
4.9.5 Front fork — Static bending test . 14
4.9.6 Front fork — Rearward impact test . 14
4.9.7 Front fork — Bending fatigue test plus rearward impact test .15
4.9.8 Forks intended for use with hub- or disc-brakes. 15
4.9.9 Steerer tube — fatigue test . 15
4.10 Wheels and tyre assembly . 16
4.10.1 Wheels and tyre assembly — Rotational accuracy — Concentricity
tolerance and lateral tolerance . 16
iii
4.10.2 Wheel and tyre assembly — Clearance . 16
4.10.3 Wheel and tyre assembly — Static strength test . 16
4.10.4 Wheels — Wheel retention . 16
4.10.5 Wheels — Quick-release devices — Operating features . 17
4.10.6 Wheel and tyre assembly — Greenhouse effect test for composite wheels . 17
4.10.7 Wheel and tyre assembly — Heat resistance tests for composite rims used
in conjunction with rim brake. 18
4.10.8 Wheel and tyre assembly — Overpressure test . 18
4.10.9 Wheel and tyre assembly —Information for users . 19
4.11 Front mudguard . 19
4.12 Pedals and pedal/crank drive system . 19
4.12.1 Pedal tread . 19
4.12.2 Pedal clearance .20
4.12.3 Pedal — Static strength test . 21
4.12.4 Pedal — Impact test . 21
4.12.5 Pedal — Dynamic durability test . 21
4.12.6 Drive system — Static strength test . 21
4.12.7 Crank assembly — Fatigue test . 22
4.13 Drive-chain and drive belt . 22
4.13.1 Drive-chain .22
4.13.2 Drive belt .22
4.14 Chain-wheel and belt-drive protective device . 22
4.14.1 Requirements .22
4.14.2 Chain-wheel disc and drive pulley disc diameter .23
4.14.3 Chain and drive belt protective device . 24
4.14.4 Combined front gear-change guide . . 25
4.15 Saddles and seat-posts . 25
4.15.1 Limiting dimensions .25
4.15.2 Seat-post — Insertion-depth mark or positive stop . 25
4.15.3 Saddle/seat-post — Security test . 26
4.15.4 Saddle and saddle rail — Static strength test . 26
4.15.5 Saddle and seat-post assembly — Fatigue test . 26
4.15.6 Seat-post — Fatigue test . 26
4.16 Spoke protector . 27
4.17 Luggage carriers . 27
4.18 Road test of a fully assembled bicycle. 27
4.19 Lighting systems and reflectors . 27
4.19.1 General . 27
4.19.2 Wiring harness . 27
4.19.3 Lighting systems .28
4.19.4 Reflectors .28
4.20 Warning device .28
5 Manufacturer's instructions .28
6 Marking . .30
6.1 Requirement .30
6.2 Durability test . 31
Annex A (informative) Steering geometry .32
Bibliography .33
iv
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of
any patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or
on the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www.iso.org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and
expressions related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO's adherence to
the World Trade Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), see
www.iso.org/iso/foreword.html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 149, Cycles, Subcommittee SC 1, Cycles
and major sub-assemblies, in collaboration with the European Committee for Standardization (CEN)
Technical Committee CEN/TC 333, Cycles, in accordance with the Agreement on technical cooperation
between ISO and CEN (Vienna Agreement).
This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition (ISO 4210-2:2015), which has been technically
revised.
The main changes as follows:
— improvement of 4.3.2 Minimum failure torque;
— change in minimum braking performance value in Table 2 of 4.6.8.1.3;
— improvement of 4.6.9;
— improvement of 4.7.2;
— addition of a requirement for angle-adjustable handlebar stem in 4.7.6.3;
— addition of 4.8.7;
— addition of 4.9.8.3;
— addition of 4.9.9;
— re-arrangement of requirements for “Wheel and tyre assembly”, “Rims, tyres, and tubes”;
— improvement of 4.10.2;
— change in test force of 4.10.4.3;
— addition of 4.10.7;
v
— improvement of 4.11;
— change in option c) of 4.14;
— addition of 4.15.4.2;
— improvement of 4.15.6;
— addition of icons in Clause 6.
A list of all parts in the ISO 4210 series can be found on the ISO website.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at www.iso.org/members.html.
vi
Introduction
This document has been developed in response to demand throughout the world, and the aim has been
to ensure that bicycles manufactured in conformity with this document will be as safe as is practically
possible. The tests have been designed to ensure the strength and durability of individual parts as well
as of the bicycle as a whole, demanding high quality throughout and consideration of safety aspects
from the design stage onwards.
The scope has been limited to safety considerations and has specifically avoided standardization of
components.
For the purpose of improving the safety of luggage carriers, revision work of ISO 11243, referenced
in 4.17, is in progress. In case this revision work involves requirements for the entire bicycle, this
document will incorporate those requirements in the next revision.
If the bicycle should be used on public roads, national regulations apply.
vii
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 4210-2:2023(E)
Cycles — Safety requirements for bicycles —
Part 2:
Requirements for city and trekking, young adult, mountain
and racing bicycles
1 Scope
This document specifies safety and performance requirements for the design, assembly, and testing of
bicycles and sub-assemblies, and lays down guidelines for manufacturer’s instructions on the use and
care of such bicycles.
This document applies to young adult bicycles with maximum saddle height of 635 mm or more and less
than 750 mm, city and trekking bicycles, mountain bicycles, and racing bicycles that have a maximum
saddle height of 635 mm or more including folding bicycles.
This document does not apply to specialized types of bicycle, such as delivery bicycles, recumbent
bicycles, tandems, BMX bicycles, and bicycles designed and equipped for use in severe applications such
as sanctioned competition events, stunting, or aerobatic manoeuvres.
NOTE For bicycles with a maximum saddle height of 435 mm or less, see national regulations for ride-on
[8]
toys, and with a maximum saddle height of more than 435 mm and less than 635 mm, see ISO 8098 .
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 4210-1, Cycles — Safety requirements for bicycles — Part 1: Vocabulary
ISO 4210-3:2023, Cycles — Safety requirements for bicycles — Part 3: Common test methods
ISO 4210-4:2023, Cycles — Safety requirements for bicycles — Part 4: Braking test methods
ISO 4210-5:2023, Cycles — Safety requirements for bicycles — Part 5: Steering test methods
ISO 4210-6:2023, Cycles — Safety requirements for bicycles — Part 6: Frame and fork test methods
ISO 4210-7:2023, Cycles — Safety requirements for bicycles — Part 7: Wheels and rims test methods
ISO 4210-8:2023, Cycles — Safety requirements for bicycles — Part 8: Pedal and drive system test methods
ISO 4210-9:2023, Cycles — Safety requirements for bicycles — Part 9: Saddles and seat-post test methods
ISO 6742-1, Cycles — Lighting and retro-reflective devices — Part 1: Lighting and light signalling devices
ISO 6742-2, Cycles — Lighting and retro-reflective devices — Part 2: Retro-reflective devices
ISO 6742-3, Cycles — Lighting and retro-reflective devices — Part 3: Installation and use of lighting and
retro-reflective devices
ISO 9633, Cycle chains — Characteristics and test methods
ISO 11243, Cycles — Luggage carriers for bicycles —Requirements and test methods
ISO 14878, Cycles — Audible warning devices — Technical specification and test methods
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO 4210-1 apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https:// www .iso .org/ obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at https:// www .electropedia .org/
4 Requirements
4.1 Toxicity
Any items which come into intimate contact with the rider (i.e. causing any hazard due to sucking or
licking) shall conform with any national regulations specific to children's products.
4.2 Sharp edges
Exposed edges that could come into contact with the rider's hands, legs, etc., during normal riding or
normal handling and normal maintenance shall not be sharp, e.g. deburred, broken, rolled, or processed
with comparable techniques.
[9]
NOTE See ISO 13715 .
4.3 Security and strength of safety-related fasteners
4.3.1 Security of screws
Any screws used in the assembly of suspension systems, brackets attached to electric generators, brake
mechanisms and mudguards to the frame or fork shall be provided with suitable locking devices, e.g.
lock-washers, lock-nuts, thread locking compound, or stiff nuts. Fasteners used to assemble hub and
disc brakes shall have heat-resistant locking devices.
[1]
NOTE For example, mechanical and physical properties of bolts are specified in ISO 898-1 .
4.3.2 Minimum failure torque
The minimum failure torque of bolted joints for the fastening of handle bars, handlebar stems, bar ends,
saddle and seat-posts shall be at least 20 % greater than the manufacturer's maximum recommended
tightening torque.
4.3.3 Folding bicycle mechanism
If folding bicycle mechanism is provided, it shall be designed so that the bicycle can be locked for use in
a simple, stable, safe way, and when folded, no damage shall occur to any cables. No locking mechanism
shall contact the wheels or tyres during riding, and it shall be impossible to unintentionally loosen or
unlock the folding mechanisms during riding.
4.4 Crack detection methods
Standardized methods should be used to emphasize the presence of cracks where visible cracks are
specified as criteria of failure in tests specified in this document.
[2] [3]
NOTE For example, suitable dye-penetrant methods are specified in ISO 3452-1 , ISO 3452-2 ,
[4] [5]
ISO 3452-3 , and ISO 3452-4 . In addition, white paint or surface treatment can be used to aid in detection for
composite materials.
4.5 Exposed protrusions
This requirement is intended to address the hazards associated with the users of bicycles falling on
projections or rigid components (e.g. handlebars, levers) on a bicycle, possibly causing internal injury or
skin puncture.
Tubes and rigid components in the form of projections which constitute a puncture hazard to the user
should be protected. The size and shape of the end protection has not been stipulated, but an adequate
shape shall be given to avoid puncturing of the body. Screw threads which constitute a puncture
hazard shall be limited to a protrusion length of one major diameter of the screw beyond the internally
threaded mating part.
NOTE Handlebar ends are covered in 4.7.2.
4.6 Brakes
4.6.1 Braking systems
A bicycle shall be equipped with at least two independently actuated braking systems. At least one
shall operate on the front wheel and one on the rear wheel. The braking systems shall operate without
binding and shall be capable of meeting the braking performance requirements of 4.6.8.
Brake blocks containing asbestos shall not be permitted.
4.6.2 Hand-operated brakes
4.6.2.1 Brake lever position
The brake levers for front and rear brakes shall be positioned according to the legislation or custom and
practice of the country in which the bicycle is to be sold, and the bicycle manufacturer shall state in the
manufacturer’s instructions which levers operate the front and rear brakes [see also Clause 5, item b)].
4.6.2.2 Brake lever grip dimensions
a) The brake lever similar to type A or type B.
The dimension, d, measured at the non-activated position of the brake lever between the outer surfaces
of the brake lever in the region intended for contact with the rider's fingers and the handlebar or
any other covering present shall cover a distance of not less than 40 mm as shown in Figure 1 a) and
Figure 1 b) and conform to the following:
— on bicycles on which the minimum intended height of the saddle is 635 mm or more, d shall not
exceed 90 mm;
— on bicycles on which the minimum intended height of the saddle is less than 635 mm, d shall not
exceed 75 mm.
Conformity shall be established by the method detailed in ISO 4210-4:2023, 4.1.1. The range of
adjustment on the brake lever should permit these dimensions to be obtained.
NOTE See Clause 5, item c) in relation to the minimum intended height of the saddle.
b) The brake lever similar to type C.
It shall be possible to fit the dimension gauge shown in ISO 4210-4:2023, Figure 3 over the brake lever (or
a secondary brake lever) and the handlebar grip or any other covering in at least one position between
points B and C indicated in Figure 1 c), without causing any movement of the brake lever towards the
handlebar. The dimension d shall not exceed 100 mm.
Conformance shall be established by the method detailed in ISO 4210-4:2023, 4.1.2. The range of
adjustment on the brake lever should permit these dimensions to be obtained.
Dimensions in millimetres
a)  Type A b)  Type B
c)  Type C
Key
1 pivot
a distance between the last part of the lever intended for contact with the rider's fingers and the end of the lever
B point of L/2
C point of 20 mm (in case of an extension brake lever, 15 mm) from the end of the lever
d brake lever grip dimension — non activated
L distance between the centre of the lever pivot and the lever tip end
Figure 1 — Brake lever grip dimensions
4.6.3 Attachment of brake assembly and cable requirements
Cable pinch bolts shall not sever any of the cable strands when assembled to the manufacturer's
instructions. In the event of a cable failing, no part of the brake mechanism shall inadvertently inhibit
the rotation of the wheel.
The cable end shall either be protected with a cap that shall withstand a removal force of not less than
20 N or be otherwise treated to prevent unravelling.
NOTE See 4.3 in relation to fasteners.
4.6.4 Brake-block and brake-pad assemblies — Security test
The friction material shall be securely attached to the holder, backing plate, or shoe and there shall be
no failure of the braking system or any component thereof, and the brake shall meet the performance
requirements of 4.6.8 when tested by the method specified in ISO 4210-4:2023, 4.3.
4.6.5 Brake adjustment
Each brake shall be equipped with an adjustment mechanism, either manual or automatic.
Each brake shall be capable of adjustment with or without the use of a tool to an efficient operating
position until the friction material has worn to the point of requiring replacement as recommended in
the manufacturer's instructions. Also, when correctly adjusted, the friction material shall not contact
anything other than the intended braking surface.
The brake blocks of a bicycle with rod brakes shall not come into contact with the rim of the wheels
when the steering angle of the handlebars is set at 60°, nor shall the rods bend, or be twisted after the
handlebars are reset to the central position.
4.6.6 Hand-operated braking-system — Strength test
When tested by the method described in ISO 4210-4:2023, 4.4, there shall be no failure of the braking
system or of any component thereof.
4.6.7 Back-pedal braking system — Strength test
4.6.7.1 General
If the back-pedal braking system is fitted, the brake shall be actuated by the operator's foot applying
force to the pedal in a direction opposite to that of the drive force. The brake mechanism shall function
regardless of any drive gear positions or adjustments. The differential between the drive and brake
positions of the crank shall not exceed 60°.
The measurement shall be taken with the crank held against each position with a pedal force of at least
250 N. The force shall be maintained for 1 min in each position.
4.6.7.2 Requirement
When tested in accordance with ISO 4210-4:2023, 4.5, there shall be no failure of the brake system or
any component thereof.
4.6.8 Braking performance
4.6.8.1 General
4.6.8.1.1 Test method options
Two test methods are specified to determine braking performance and experience has shown that
either method is suitable and either can be used. One test method is the track test in which braking
distance is measured directly with the progressive characteristics of the brakes being self-evident. The
alternative test method is a machine/rig base test in which braking force is measured and, from which,
braking performance values are calculated. The progressive characteristics of the brake are determined
by linearity measurements. A final, simple track test checks for smooth, safe, stopping characteristics.
Whichever method is used, there shall be conformity with 4.6.8.1.2 or 4.6.8.1.3.
NOTE1 See ISO 4210-4:2023, 4.6.5.7 item i), test method — simple track test.
NOTE2 For the purposes of improving repeatability and reproducibility and considering the applicability to
all types of bicycle and the size and influence of the operator, the machine test method reflects today's state of
the art.
4.6.8.1.2 Track test
When tested in accordance with ISO 4210-4:2023, 4.6.3, the bicycle shall fulfil the requirements shown
in Table 1.
Table 1 — Brake test velocities and braking distances
Maximum
Velocity corrected braking
Bicycle type Condition Brake in use
distance
km/h
m
Both 7
Dry 25
Rear only 15
City and trekking
bicycles
Both 5
Wet 16
Rear only 10
Both 7
Dry 25
Rear only 15
Young adult bicycles
Both 5
Wet 16
Rear only 10
Both 6
Dry 25
Rear only 10
Mountain bicycles
Both 5
Wet 16
Rear only 10
Both 6
Dry 25
Rear only 12
Racing bicycles
Both 5
Wet 16
Rear only 10
4.6.8.1.3 Machine test
When tested in accordance with ISO 4210-4:2023, 4.6.5, the bicycle shall fulfil the requirements shown
in Table 2.
Table 2 — Calculated braking performance values
Minimum
braking perfor-
mance
Bicycle type Condition Brake in use
value, B
p
N
Front only 300
Dry
Rear only 200
City and trekking
bicycles
Front only 150
Wet
Rear only 120
TTabablele 2 2 ((ccoonnttiinnueuedd))
Minimum
braking perfor-
mance
Bicycle type Condition Brake in use
value, B
p
N
Front only 180
Dry
Rear only 120
Young adult
bicycles
Front only 90
Wet
Rear only 80
Front only 350
Dry
Rear only 260
Mountain bicycles
Front only 180
Wet
Rear only 120
Front only 350
Dry
Rear only 220
Racing bicycles
Front only 160
Wet
Rear only 120
4.6.8.2 Smooth, safe-stop characteristics
The bicycle shall show smooth, safe-stop characteristics with regard to the intended use of the bicycle
and the ability of the expected user of the bicycle.
a) For the track test, smooth, safe-stop characteristics are defined as stopping within the required
distances without occurrence of any of the following:
1) excessive juddering;
2) front wheel locking;
3) bicycle overturning (rear wheel lifting uncontrollably);
4) rider's loss of control;
5) excessive side-skid causing the rider to put his foot to the ground to retain control.
With certain types of braking system, it might not be possible to avoid entirely some skidding of the
rear wheel and tyre assembly during braking; this is considered acceptable provided that item 4)
or item 5) above do not occur as a result.
Back pedal brakes shall additionally conform with the linearity test of ISO 4210-4:2023, 4.6.4.
b) For the machine test, smooth, safe-stop characteristics are defined by conformity with the
linearity requirements specified in ISO 4210-4:2023, 4.6.5.3 and the simple track test described in
ISO 4210-4:2023, 4.6.5.7 item i).
4.6.8.3 Ratio between wet and dry braking performance
For city and trekking, young adult, and mountain bicycles, in order to ensure safety for both wet and
dry braking, the ratio of braking performance wet/dry shall be greater than 4:10.
The methods for calculating this ratio are given in ISO 4210-4:2023, 4.6.3.11 item c) for the track test
and in ISO 4210-4:2023, 4.6.5.7 item h) for the machine test.
4.6.9 Brakes — Heat-resistance test
4.6.9.1 General
This test applies to all disc and hub brakes, and it also applies to rim brakes where the rim brake
sidewalls are known to be manufactured from or include composite materials.
Each brake on the bicycle shall be tested individually, but where the front and rear brakes are identical,
only one brake needs to be tested. If rims are identical (spoke count, material, design), only one wheel
and tyre assembly needs to be tested.
Prior to this test, 4.6.5 shall be conducted to record the braking performance at the highest operating
force for both dry and wet condition.
4.6.9.2 Requirement
Throughout the test described in ISO 4210-4:2023, 4.7.1, the brake lever shall not touch the handlebar
grip, the operating force shall not exceed 180 N.
When tested by the method described in 4.7.2, the brakes shall achieve at least 60 % of the braking
performance both dry and wet condition which was recorded at the highest operating force used during
the performance tests ISO 4210-4:2023, 4.6.5.7 d) items 1) and 2).
4.7 Steering
4.7.1 Handlebar — Dimensions
The handlebar shall have an overall width between 350 mm and 1 000 mm unless national regulations
dictate otherwise. Adjust the handlebar height to its highest normal riding position and the saddle to
its lowest normal riding position as specified by the manufacturer [see Clause 5, item c)]. Measure the
vertical distance from the centre and top of the handlebar grips to a point where the saddle surface is
intersected by the seat post axis (see Figure 2). This dimension shall not exceed 400 mm.
Figure 2 — Vertical distance between the handlebar grips and the seat surface
4.7.2 Handlebar grips and plugs
4.7.2.1 General
The ends of the handlebar shall be covered according to a) or b) or c);
a) For handlebars with end axes which are oriented within 60° of parallel to the axis of the front
wheel axle, end plugs in conformity with 4.7.2.2 and 4.7.2.3 shall be fitted. Handgrips in conformity
with 4.7.2.2 may additionally be fitted.
b) For drop handlebars, any open handlebar end shall be fitted with a suitable end plug (for example,
of the type used to secure handlebar wrapping tape). Conformity with 4.7.2.2 or 4.7.2.3 is not
required for these end plugs.
c) For handlebars other than a) or b), either handgrips which cover the handlebar end, or end plugs,
shall be fitted. If end plugs are installed, hand grips may additionally be fitted (handgrips which
do not cover the handlebar ends are permitted). All handgrips and end plugs fitted shall be in
conformity with 4.7.2.2.
4.7.2.2 Loosening of grips and plugs
When tested by the method described in ISO 4210-5:2023, 4.1.1 and 4.1.2, the handgrips shall withstand
the specified removal forces.
When tested by the method described in ISO 4210-5:2023, 4.1.1, the plugs shall withstand the specified
removal forces. Plugs installed within handgrips which cover the handlebar end are excluded from this
requirement.
4.7.2.3 Design of end plugs
Unless the handlebar has permanently closed ends (for example metal end plates, welded or otherwise
permanently attached), each handlebar end shall be fitted with a handlebar end plug.
The outside diameter of the handlebar end plug shall match the outside diameter of the handlebar end.
If made from plastic, the handlebar end plug shall have minimum 3 mm thickness for its end as shown
in Figure 3, and have a minimum durometer of 65 Shore A. Alternatively, the handlebar end plug can be
made from a durable material such as metal.
Key
X minimum 3 mm
Figure 3 — handlebar end plug
4.7.3 Handlebar stem — Insertion-depth mark or positive stop
The handlebar stem shall be provided with one of the two following alternative means of ensuring a
safe insertion depth into the fork steerer.
a) It shall contain a permanent, transverse mark, of length not less than the external diameter of the
stem that clearly indicates the minimum insertion depth of the handlebar stem into the fork steerer.
The insertion mark shall be located at a position not less than 2,5 times the external diameter of
the handlebar stem from the bottom of the stem, and there shall be at least one stem diameter's
length of contiguous, circumferential stem material below the mark.
b) It shall incorporate a permanent stop to prevent it from being drawn out of the fork steerer such as
to leave the insertion less than the amount specified in item a).
4.7.4 Handlebar stem to fork steerer — Clamping requirements
The distance, g, (see Figure 4) between the top of the handlebar stem and the top of the fork steerer to
which the handlebar stem is clamped shall not be greater than 5 mm.
The upper part of the fork steerer to which the handlebar stem is clamped shall not be threaded.
The dimension, g, shall also ensure that the proper adjustment of the steering system can be achieved.
Key
1 handlebar stem
2 extended fork steerer
3 spacer rings
4 head set
5 head tube
g distance between the upper clamping part of the handlebar stem and the upper part of the fork steerer
Figure 4 — Clamping between the handlebar stem and fork steerer
4.7.5 Steering stability
The steering shall be free to turn through at least an angle of θ either side of the straight-ahead
position and shall exhibit no tight spots, stiffness, or slackness in the bearings when correctly adjusted.
The values are given in Table 3.
A minimum of 25 % of the total mass of the bicycle and rider shall act on the front wheel and tyre
assembly when the rider is holding the handlebar grips and sitting on the saddle, with the saddle and
rider in their most rearward positions.
NOTE R
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