The present paper describes the implementation of the “implicit” finite element code MARC in the simulation of the crush behaviour of cylindrical thin-walled composite tubes under bending. The specimen is loaded as a cantilever beam in a self-made experimental set-up under various holding conditions. The predicted numerical results are compared with those obtained in actual experimental tests. The comparisons are made in terms of deformation modes, i.e. load/deflection history and crush zone characteristics, and of energy absorbing capacity/crashworthiness characteristics, which show quite good agreement. The problem is treated by the FE code with a reasonable amount of computer time, allowing, in this manner, such structural components to be designed and analyzed without having to build and test expensive prototypes.