Biomechanical and Physiological Analysis for the Prescription and Control of Training Programs Using an E-Bike.

This thesis presents a comprehensive examination of the most relevant parameters associated with the use of electrically assisted bicycles (e-bikes), with a particular emphasis on aspects related to metabolic responses, neuromuscular engagement, subjective perception, and the analysis of vibrations experienced during riding. The investigation stems from a collaboration with the company designing, producing and selling e-bike, and the overarching objective of the PhD project is to contribute to the design and development of an e-bike whose features and functionalities are as attuned and responsive as possible to the specific needs, preferences, and physical characteristics of the end user. As a first step, a technical review of the bicycles currently developed and marketed by the partner company was conducted, with the aim of understanding their structural features, mechanical configurations, and intended use cases. Based on this preliminary analysis, a structured research plan was defined to investigate the interaction between rider and e-bike across different contexts of use. The focus was placed not only on evaluating the physiological demands placed on the rider but also on understanding how different terrain types and riding conditions influence the physical and perceptual experience of cycling. The company in question manufactures a diverse range of e-bike models, encompassing those intended for routine daily commuting as well as high-performance models designed for more demanding off-road applications, including all-mountain and enduro categories. In light of this product diversity, the research was structured around two primary experimental studies. The first study was conducted in a laboratory environment and focused on the physiological effort required of participants during pedalling. This involved a detailed assessment of physiological parameters and muscular activation under controlled conditions, providing insight into how the e-bike supports or modifies the rider's physical workload. The second study, was carried out in outdoor settings and placed emphasis on the bike handling in both uphill and downhill scenarios, across a variety of terrains ranging from paved roads to technically challenging off-road trails. This phase of the research aimed to examine how the e-bike, which differs from traditional bicycles not only for the presence of a propulsive aid but also for specific mechanical feature such as a higher weight, responds to varying riding conditions, and how such variability influences the overall management of the vehicle.