CUSHIONED COMFORT

This article describes a trial of speed cushions, held in October 1995 by Kent County Council near its supplies depot at Maidstone, Kent, England. The Council has pioneered UK traffic calming practice during recent years, and has installed several schemes using a very wide variety of techniques. Two manufacturers participated in the trials: (1) BTM Somerford; and (2) Rediweld Rubber Mouldings. Each had been asked to lay one larger and one smaller speed cushion. Two tracks were provided, one for each manufacturer's products, and vehicles were asked to make runs at 15mph and 20mph over each track. Visitors were encouraged to ride in the buses, and invited to complete a questionnaire about their rides. Most participants found their ride over the cushions acceptable and reasonably comfortable. Older models of buses gave smoother rides. Preferred cushion widths were 1.6-1.7m, and preferred heights were 60-75mm. Other vehicles tested included a fire tender, cars, and a motorcycle.

  • Availability:
  • Corporate Authors:

    Thomas Telford Limited

    London,   United Kingdom 
  • Publication Date: 1995-11

Language

  • English

Media Info

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00719938
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: Transport Research Laboratory
  • Files: ITRD
  • Created Date: Apr 26 1996 12:00AM