Effects of Vibration Experienced During Cycling on Rider Performance, Muscular Activity, Biomechanics and Comfort: A Systematic Review

During cycling, riders are exposed to vibration, but literature lacks a synthesis of its effects. This work aims to systematically review existing research on the effects of exposure to vibration during cycling. PubMed and Scopus were consulted on 29 August 2025 using keywords related to vibration and cycling. Of the 4141 records identified, 32 met the inclusion criteria (bias risk: low in 25 studies, moderate in 6, high in 1). The results were categorized according to the investigated outcomes: transmissibility (6 studies), transmitted acceleration (12), metabolic performance (16), neuromuscular activity (8), biomechanics (1), comfort (3), and vibration perception (2). Rider position, cycling speed, and crank cycle phase influence the transmission of vibration. Exposure limits defined by European Directive 2002/44/EC were exceeded, even under non-demanding cycling conditions. Vibration increases muscle activation and may impair cycling performance. Overall, bicycle design should minimize vibration exposure to enhance comfort, performance, and safety.