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Bike helmet guide
After your bike or electric bike, a well-fitting helmet is one of the most important bits of cycling gear. Though most of us know that, not many people actually know how to look after their bike helmet or how to choose the right one for them. So, we’ve put together a quick guide to getting your head around helmets.
How to measure for a bike helmet
Making sure that your helmet fits properly is really important. If the straps are too long, the helmet could slip down and restrict your vision. If it doesn’t fit snugly enough, it won’t provide proper protection and could lead to serious head injuries in the case of a fall or crash.
To measure and find the right-sized cycling helmet, grab yourself a fabric tape measure and measure around your head, about 1-2 cm above your eyebrows. This measurement will help you choose a cycling helmet of exactly the right size that’s safer and more comfortable to wear.
How to adjust a bike helmet
Most bike helmets have an adjustment system inside, made up of an adjustable ring that goes around the entire head and a twist-lock fastener. The twist-lock allows you to easily adjust the helmet to fit the size of your head. It can be adjusted tighter or looser, but be aware that headaches can develop quickly if your cycling helmet is too tight, so make sure to take some time to get it right.
To adjust the tightness of your helmet, loosen the twist-lock adjustment system at the back. Without twisting the straps, guide them down so they hang on either side of the ears. Next, buckle the chin strap and tighten the twist-lock at the back of the cycling helmet to make sure it fits the shape of your head perfectly.
The chin strap should also be adjusted so that only one finger fits between your chin and the strap. The front and back straps should come together in the shape of a V under each ear on both sides of your cycling helmet. Once you have tightened the chin strap properly, you shouldn’t be able to move the helmet in any direction. If you move your head back and forth, the helmet shouldn’t slip at all.
When to replace your bike helmet
You should replace your cycling helmet after any fall or major impact. Keep an eye on any surface damage or scratches too; even minor damage can compromise the safety and protection of the helmet.
With general wear, manufacturers often suggest that a cycling helmet should be replaced after three to five years. This is partly because the protective function of the plastic outer shell of the helmet degrades over time thanks to water and UV rays, and partly because the inner shell also naturally loses its impact absorption over time and wear. So, a cycling helmet that is used regularly should be replaced sooner than one that is only worn occasionally.
How to clean a bike helmet
Just like your cycling clothes, your helmet needs a good clean after a ride - to clean off any dirt, rain, or sweat. Now and then, you’ll need to clean both the inside and exterior of your helmet to keep it in good working order. Make it part of your regular bike maintenance routine, and it’ll become second nature.
The outer shell is usually pretty easy to clean, no matter how much mud you manage to pick up on the trails! Usually, you can simply wipe the dirt off with lukewarm water and a cloth. For any tougher, dried-on dirt, you can also use water with a little dishwashing detergent.
The inner lining of the helmet will also need to be cleaned; after all, that’s the part that comes into direct contact with your skin! Because the helmet fits so snugly, sweat can get trapped on the inside, so it’s really important to opt for a well-ventilated cycling helmet made from breathable material. Many cycling helmets have removable inner padding, which is helpful for easy cleaning too.
If you can’t remove the inner padding of your cycling helmet, the inner padding should only be cleaned with a damp cloth. If the ventilation holes of the helmet are too small to be cleaned with a cloth, you can use a soft toothbrush to clean them properly.
You can also clean the chinstrap, which naturally collects sweat and dirt just like the rest of the helmet, using a cloth and some mild soapy water. Give the soap a little time to act on the material, then wipe the straps to clean them. Never use oil-based or aggressive cleaning agents, such as acetone, benzene, or bleach.
For more cycling tips and maintenance advice, check out our Bike Knowledge hub.
FAQs
How do I choose the right size and fit for my bike helmet?
To measure for a bike helmet, use a fabric tape measure and measure the circumference of your head, about 2cm above your eyebrows. Make sure your chosen helmet fits snugly and doesn’t tilt.
What safety standards should I look for in a bike helmet in the UK?
Look for bike helmets that meet the EN 1078 standard, which is the European safety standard for bicycle helmets. This certification ensures that the helmet has passed rigorous safety tests, providing a baseline level of protection. Check for the EN 1078 label to ensure compliance with UK safety standards.
How often should I replace my bike helmet, and how do I know it’s time?
You should replace your bike helmet every 3-5 years, even if it looks undamaged. You might notice minor damage sooner - such as cracks, dents, or any damage to the outer shell. If the helmet has been involved in a significant impact or accident, it should be replaced immediately, as its protective features might be compromised.