Go into any bicycle shop and you will find a wide array of different types of bicycle helmets. For every rider, there is a helmet designed to meet their particular needs – and that’s important because there are many different kinds of cyclists. Before you choose a cycling helmet on looks and fit alone, learn what sets the different helmets apart so that you can select one that best meets your needs.
Road Helmet – Road helmets are often considered the traditional bicycle helmet. They have an elongated shape, are vented, and are constructed of foam covered in a hard plastic exterior. These are the most popular helmets and are great for general use. A few brands even offer women’s road helmets. These helmets have room in the back to accommodate long hair or even a ponytail.
Commuter Helmet – Commuter helmets differ slightly in shape and have a more rounded shell, but still retain the solid fit of the road helmet. These helmets often feature extras that benefit commuters like mirrors, blinkers, and even ear flaps for cold weather cycling.
Mountain Bike Helmet – Mountain bike helmets have visors and enhanced circulation features. They also provide extra protection to the rear of the head and offer a very secure fit to help the helmet stay on during a high impact crash. Some mountain bike helmets even have facial protection features. Mountain bike helmets are also used by cyclocross riders.
How Should a Bike Helmet Fit?
When it comes to bike helmets, the most important thing is to make sure it fits well. If your bicycle helmet doesn’t fit well, it will be uncomfortable and can cause chafing and irritation. But far worse than that, if it’s not properly secured, it can come off your head in a crash. Without your helmet properly in place, you face a greater risk of head injury. A good fitting helmet should be snug and secure on your head, but not tight. It should sit level on your head, with less than an inch between the top of your eyebrows and the front of the helmet.
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When Should I Replace My Bike Helmet?
If you have been in a crash, you should replace your bicycle helmet. Bicycle helmets are designed for a single impact. After a crash, they lose effectiveness and may not be able to protect your head as they should. Even if the helmet appears okay on the outside, the impact-absorbing components can be damaged in ways that you cannot see. It’s always best to replace a helmet after any significant impact.
Bicycle helmets should be replaced at least once every five years. Components weaken over time and may not provide the necessary protection. Also, check your helmet over periodically for any signs of damage. UV rays, exposure to the elements, and general wear and tear can contribute to damage. If you notice any significant signs of wear, it’s time to replace your helmet.
Bicycle helmets should be an essential part of everyone’s bike gear. After all, a good bicycle helmet can protect your head from injury in the event of a crash. Head trauma, or traumatic brain injury, can cause lifelong disabilities and even death. It simply doesn’t make sense to take a chance when it comes to your health and safety. Even if your state or locality does not have laws enforcing bicycle helmet use, you should still wear one.
Even with a bicycle helmet and other safety gear in place, bicycle crashes still cause injuries. These injuries can mean mounting medical bills, time away from school or work, and even long-term injuries and disabilities. If you have been struck by a motorist while riding your bicycle, you deserve to receive compensation. The insurance company will make you a low offer in an effort to get you to settle for less than you deserve. At Kass & Moses, we believe that victims of bicycle crashes deserve to receive compensation for their injuries and pain and suffering. We will fight to help you get the money you deserve after a bicycle crash.
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