This European Standard has been developed in response to demand throughout Europe, and the aim has been to ensure that bicycles manufactured in compliance with it will be as safe as is practically possible. The tests have been designed to ensure the strength and durability of individual parts as well as of the bicycle as a whole, demanding high quality throughout and consideration of safety aspects from the design stage onwards.
The scope has been limited to safety considerations, and has specifically avoided standardisation of components. If the bicycle is used on public roads national regulations apply.
BS EN 14766:2005 specifies safety and performance requirements for the design, assembly, and testing of bicycles and sub-assemblies intended for off-road, rough-terrain use, and lays down guide lines for instructions on the use and care of such bicycles. It applies to bicycles on which the saddle can be adjusted to provide a maximum saddle height of 635 mm or more.
NOTE For bicycles with a saddle height of less than 435 mm see EN 71 and with a maximum saddle height of more than 435 mm and less than 635 mm see EN 14765.
It does not apply to racing bicycles and specialised types of bicycle such as tandems or bicycles designed and equipped for use in severe applications such as sanctioned competition events, stunting, or aerobatic manoeuvres.
No requirements on lighting equipment, reflectors and warning devices are specified in this European Standard, due to the existence of several different national regulations applicable in the European Countries.