earing a bicycle helmet is essential regardless of the type of bicycling practiced . In this sense, there are many helmets with different specifications and different costs. This range of choice can be a headache for many. We must always keep in mind that no matter the design, all helmets meet the same standards and protect the same way.
However, some criteria are essential and help further identify the ideal product: the type of bike , the average distance traveled , the morphology of the cyclist.
- The protection
All helmets provide equal protection. When it comes to prices, the higher the cost, the more technical the helmet is. Most of the time, the latter is ventilated, lighter and offers a better fit on the head. In other words, the research behind this technicality increases the cost of the product.
Moreover, a helmet has somewhat of an expiry date. This means it has to be change if it receives a shock or after 3-5 years even if he never received an impact. In fact, the foam in the helmet eventually dries up, wear-out, with sweat and weather. Starting a certain period , it no longer offers the same resistance to impact.
- The comfort and aeration
In addition, other subjective factors must be considered by the cyclist in search of the perfect helmet. It is possible that a person who always feels warm prefers a more ventilated helmet. The reverse is also true. Also, helmets that are less ventilated provide better protection against rain and wind. It is important to consider this factor when purchasing a helmet.
Moreover, comfort in the helmet should be at its best. If certain pressure points make the helmet feel uncomfortable, the rider will not be tempted to wear it, a fact that goes against what is the essence of the helmet: protection. So the helmet must fit the shape of the head of the rider. It is therefore important to test several types of helmets before making the purchase, because in the end, nobody has a head with the same shape.
- The look
It is important to like the look of the helmet, to feel «cute» and to be sure to wear it. This is a factor that seems unimportant, but many don’t wear a helmet because of this. So bet on your appearance to maximize your protection!
- The adjustment
Protection of the helmet is worth nothing if it is not properly adjusted. The front and rear straps should come to cross under the ears to come and tie under the chin so not too tight (jugular setting).
If the helmet has an adjusting device inside which tightens the helmet on the head, it is important to adjust it so that it is presses against the head, without, again, being too tight (occipital setting).
Once on the head and adjusted , the helmet should not move. The rider can take the test of "Yes" and "No" to determine whether it remains in place despite these movements. It is always possible to measure his head circumference to predict the size that would be best suited .
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Adjustment |
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Jugular setting |
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Occipital adjustment |
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- The helmets and the types of riders
Occasional cyclists
For people who practice occasionally this sport, there are good helmets, not too expensive and with good protection. It is not necessary to invest for something hyper light. The important thing is comfort and fit so that it is as effective as possible in terms of protection.
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Low end Helmets |
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Urban biker
The urban cyclist who uses the bike as means of transport will tend to favor a more sophisticated look. Comfort is very important. In terms of ventilation, it will depend on the cyclists. Someone who has a warmer body temperature will opt for a ventilated model, even sometimes, opt for an aerodynamic helmet predominantly used for road cycling. This will also depend on the distance traveled every day. A longer distance requires more ventilation from the helmet. However, some people prefer the less ventilated models that offer a better protection against rain.
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Urban Helmet |
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Road Biker
The road cyclist will opt for an aerodynamic model, most ventilated and as light as possible. It will have to be especially comfortable and come fit as close as possible to the shape of the rider.
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Road Helmet |
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Mountain Bikers
The mountain biker will want a lightweight aerodynamic helmet, ventilated and comfortable while offering good protection. The latter will be covering in the back in order to provide better protection against impacts. In addition, it will be equipped with a pallet at the front for better protection against obstacles and falls.
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Mountain Helmet |
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