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Designers' Directory
IAG Research
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Crash damage and repair cost research
Unit 1, No.2 Holker St
Newington
NSW
2127
Australia
Email:
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Website
Phone: +61 2 9292 6847
Fax: +61 2 9737 9860
IAG encourages motorcycle designers, engineers and manufacturers to incorporate design features that minimise the cost of damage arising from low speed impacts. Physical research into the factors that affect the risks associated with motorcycle insurance is a new and interesting development. Anthony Boddy is the project manager for IAG’s motorcycle research. Anthony is a motorcyclist with 35 years experience. IAG’s research facility is a testament to its commitment to reduce risk and to contain the cost of insurance. IAG already conducts low speed frontal offset tests on cars and also bumper compatibility tests. The pricing of motorcycle insurance premiums is driven largely by the cost of damage claims. Increased cost of insurance may lead to a decline in sales and a drift away from motorcycling as a recreational pursuit. If the cost of these claims can be reduced, premiums can be reduced. A significant number of expensive claims involve motorcycles which are stationary or travelling at low speed. Based on assessments of insurance claims, IAG has identified certain design features which can help to reduce the cost of damage in stationary or low speed falls. IAG has begun a program of motorcycle tip-over tests to determine repair costs and to identify the best design features that save on crash costs. Poor design leads to expensive parts being the first points of impact in a low speed fall (fairing, lights, fuel tank, frame, swingarm). Good features include: reinforced steel side bars to protect body side panels and engine components. These can be hidden under low-cost unpainted replaceable covers (Honda ST1300 & Deauville) side crash protectors to prevent scratches; also known as crash knobs, bobbins or bungs (Aprilia Tuono and BMW K1200R) easily replaceable engine side covers and clutch covers (Honda 919 Fireblade) frame protectors in carbon fibre, or plastic or rubber (Triumph 955i Daytona & Buell XB12X Ulysses) heat shields over radiators and mufflers which double as scratch protectors (Honda 900 Hornet, Suzuki GSX-R600 & 750)
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