Experimenting with crack propagation in human cortical tissue is a necessary prerequisite for developing a cracking model. A three-point bending test on a shaft section of a notched human long bone is presented. A procedure for carrying out the experimental test, including unloading/reloading cycles, is implemented. The results obtained are analyzed regarding the physical mechanisms which occur in the different phases of the test, and during the cycles. The prominent role of cracking is highlighted. In addition a hypothesis is proposed concerning the potential effect of initial internal residual stresses, due to bone remodelling, on the significant residual notch openings after unloading and on the cycles' shape.