ISO 9021:2020

Overview

ISO 9021:2020 - Motorcycles and mopeds: Controls - Types, positions and functions defines the types, positions and functions of rider‑operated controls on motorcycles and mopeds to facilitate safe, ergonomic and consistent use. The standard covers control layout on handlebars and the vehicle, reach/access requirements, orientation conventions (right/left, forward, clockwise/anticlockwise), and mandatory identification where fitted. Annex A lists controls, indicators and tell‑tales that require obligatory identification and the graphical symbols to use; Annex B provides guidance for electrically propelled motorcycles/mopeds.

Key topics and requirements

• Scope & definitions: Applies to rider‑operated controls commonly fitted to motorcycles and mopeds (ISO 3833 definition), excluding steering‑wheel types.
• General design and reach: Controls must be within reach when the rider is seated; handlebar controls must be operable without removing hands from handgrips.
• Orientation conventions: Right/left defined relative to the vehicle’s longitudinal plane; clockwise/anticlockwise specified as viewed from the outer/upper side.
• Handlebar controls (examples included in the standard):
  • Starter / electric starter: Push‑type, located on handlebars, right side.
  • Ignition/main switch: Rotary switches move clockwise from “off” to “on”.
  • Throttle (accelerator): Rotating handgrip on right handlebar; anticlockwise rotation increases speed; self‑closing to idle in the clockwise direction.
  • Front brake: Hand lever on the right, forward position of handlebars.
  • Engine cut‑out (stop): Located on handlebars, right side.
• Systems covered: Electrical controls, engine controls (starting, speed, stop), brakes (front, rear, combined service brake, parking brake), transmission (clutch, gear selection), lighting and signalling (horn, lights, direction indicators, hazard), and fuel supply (choke, manual shut‑off).
• Identification & symbols: When fitted, controls, indicators and tell‑tales must use symbols and identifications as specified in Annex A and referenced standards (e.g., ISO 6727 for symbols).

Applications and who uses it

ISO 9021:2020 is practical for:

• Motorcycle and moped OEMs designing ergonomic control layouts and complying with international expectations.
• Component manufacturers (switches, throttles, levers, tell‑tales) specifying position and operation.
• Regulatory and homologation bodies assessing vehicle control conformity.
• Test laboratories and safety engineers evaluating reach, orientation and identification.
• Workshop manuals, aftermarket designers and rider trainers ensuring consistent control operation and user guidance.

Related standards

• ISO 6727 - Symbols for controls, indicators and tell‑tales (normative reference)
• ISO 3833 - Vehicle definitions (reference for “motorcycle/moped”)
• Work prepared by ISO/TC 22/SC 38 (Motorcycles and mopeds)

Keywords: ISO 9021:2020, motorcycle controls, moped controls, rider‑operated controls, handlebar layout, control identification, throttle, ignition switch, front brake, control symbols.