Fitting and adjusting your helmet.

Helmet check information sheet (PDF, 163 Kb)
(Also, see our bike safety check info sheet)

This document is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License You may distribute the work, but may not alter it—logos and CCE contact information may not be omitted. Permissions beyond the scope of this license may be available at http://www.thecce.org/copyright.

An important part of safe cycling is knowing how to ensure that the equipment you use (or that your child uses) is well-suited and in proper working order.

We've prepared a fact sheet (linked above and below) to help you to chose, fit and adjust your helmet, or to help children with doing the same for theirs.

Remember that a helmet is only meant to be a last resort for safety. It does not replace safe riding skills or supervision where necessary. Wear a helmet, but ride as though you weren't wearing one.

Q: "Is helmet care and adjustment really worth spending time on?"

A: During a fall or a collision, the head can accelerate quickly toward the ground. If the helmet isn't adjusted properly, it can come away from the head. Even a slight separation can dramatically reduce the protection the helmet can provide. If the helmet hasn't been cared for properly, it's not possible to ensure that it will provide the protection needed in a serious impact.

A poorly-adjusted or damaged helmet might provide some protection. But will it be enough?

Need assistance with any information in the fact sheet? Ask staff at your local bike shop for tips, or sign up for one of our cycling courses.

This information is available in PDF format. Please feel free to distribute this document as you please, provided that it is reproduced in its entirety—logos and CCE contact information may not be omitted. The materials are © 2008, The Center for Cycling Education.

Enjoy the ride!

Helmet check (PDF, 163 Kb)
(Also, see our bike safety check info sheet)