Motorcycle protective clothing: impact on cognitive performance and mood when worn in hot conditions

EXTENDED ABSTRACT: Thermal discomfort is a disincentive to motorcyclists wearing protective clothing in hot conditions. Previous work has established that products currently available to Australian riders potentially impose an uncompensable heat stress upon riders in average Australian summer conditions. This study was designed to examine the potential for the physiological and cognitive concomitants of heat strain to compromise rider safety.
The results demonstrated increased reaction times, perceived workload and mood disturbance associated with increasing heart rate, body core and skin temperatures. These results confirm the importance of establishing the performance thresholds required of motorcycle protective clothing suitable for use in hot conditions.