Standardized Test Procedure for Trailer Coupling Devices Considering Bike Carrier Loading

Trailer coupling devices are more and more used in combination with bike carriers. The guideline 94/20/EC and the load standard CARLOS TC do not consider loads caused by bike carrier service. For safety components it is necessary to use test procedures which consider loads during intended usage. So far company specific test procedures are used. For a more statistically based test procedure under consideration of service loads the load standard CARLOS TC BC has been derived. The concept demonstrated is based on a public opinion poll and measurements on public roads.