A Clipless Pedal-Sensor System for Three Dimensional Kinetic Analysis During Cycling

Purpose A Clipless Pedal-Sensor System for three-dimensional kinetic analysis of the lower limb during cycling exercise has been designed and validated. Method This system is designed for measuring three-dimensional propulsion forces during cycling when wearing a shoe cleat. To compare the dynamic measured forces from the system and the applied forces from the material testing machine, the system has a high linearity and little offset (coefficient of determination, r(2) > 0.99). The three-dimensional propulsion forces, ankle and knee joint loading during cycling by a subject in the university team were demonstrated. Results During cycling, the ankle and knee compression forces were around 5 N/kg for each joint. The ankle plantar-flexor and knee flexor moments were 0.6 N-m/kg for both joints. Conclusion In future studies, the lower limb kinetics during cycling can be analyzed throughout this clipless pedal-sensor system and the parameters of the bike setup, such as seat height or crank length, can be further investigated when cyclists wear the shoes cleat.