Tools and Methodologies for the Study of Motorcyclist’s Behaviour in Real Context

This article reports on a study that used an integrated approach to study motorcyclist’s behavior in a real-world context. The methodologies included: sensors and a data logger embedded in a motorbike; a set of cameras used to collect audiovisual recordings of motorcyclists’ behavior; and self-confrontation interviews used after a motorcycle-riding session. The authors detail and adapt this approach, derived from Cognitive Ergonomics, to the investigation of motorcycle riding. They stress that the combination of these tools provides different levels of data to understand riders’ behavior, their decision-making process and underlined motives, all within a road safety perspective. They conclude with a discussion of examples extracted from this approach, with details from a recent project investigating novice’s rider activities. They also note that this comprehensive approach may engender training needs for investigators unused to integrating different types of data collection.