Overview
EN ISO 20957-5:2016 (ISO 20957-5:2016) specifies additional specific safety requirements and test methods for stationary exercise bicycles and upper body crank training equipment. It complements the general safety requirements of ISO 20957‑1 and applies to equipment defined as type 5 within the classes S, H, I and A, B, C (as classified in ISO 20957‑1). The standard is a CEN-adopted European Standard and supersedes EN 957-5:2009. It is not applicable to roller stands.
Key topics and requirements
EN ISO 20957-5:2016 focuses on practical safety and verification topics including:
- Transmission elements and rotating parts - guards, finger-probe tests and protective covers to reduce entrapment risk.
- Temperature rise - limits and test methods for components that can heat during use.
- Intrinsic loading - strength and load tests for seat pillars, handlebars, pedals and frame attachments.
- Seat and handlebar adjustments - insertion depth, locking and tilting safety checks.
- Stability - static and dynamic stability requirements to prevent tipping.
- Endurance and fatigue testing - long-term performance and durability verification.
- Performance tests - power accuracy and repeatability (including specific provisions for class A and class B equipment), constant power and heart-rate control mode tests.
- Test methods and reporting - dimensional, visual, tactile examinations; detailed test-device descriptions; required test report contents.
- Additional user information - required instructions and warnings for safe use.
The standard includes informative annexes (for example, determining moment of inertia) and specific test procedures for speed-dependent and speed-independent crank systems.
Applications and users
EN ISO 20957-5:2016 is intended for:
- Manufacturers and designers of stationary exercise bicycles and upper body crank equipment - to guide safe product design and validation.
- Test laboratories and conformity assessors - to perform required safety and performance tests.
- Product safety engineers and compliance officers - for risk assessment and documentation of test evidence.
- Specifiers and procurement teams (gyms, rehabilitation centers) - to evaluate equipment safety and suitability.
- Standards bodies and certification organizations - for harmonized national adoption and enforcement across CEN member countries.
Using this standard supports safer product development, consistent testing, and clearer documentation of safety performance for stationary training equipment.
Related standards
- ISO 20957‑1 - General safety requirements and test methods (mandatory companion document).
- EN 957-5:2009 - Previous version superseded by EN ISO 20957-5:2016.
