Bicycle Helmets

[coffeeman]

We've recently acquired 2 Dahons folding bicycles. It seems that I've seen where State Parks require the use of helmets however I can't seem to find anything to support that. Any input would be appreciated and any recommendation for helmets that you might share.

[bldrbob]

When I accidently used the front brakes first and ended on the ground I was glad I had a helmet on.I don't need someone telling me I have to be safe. I do it myself.I know it won't happen to you.Besides it is hard to tell the grandkids they have to wear a helmet if I am not.

[wildtoad]

I have ridden bikes in many state parks and todate none have required them. It's is up to you to detemine if it makes you feel safer. I tried one once years ago. Sold it at a yard sale.

[TXiceman]

Personally, I like the shape of my head the way it is. There may be some question of the mental facilities that fill the head, but a helmet is worn, anytime I ride.

Ken

[baraff]

I can't begin to tell you of the spectacular bike accidents I had as a kid back in the 60's. Nobody wore helmets back then. (or seatbelts either)
Hmmm, maybe that explains a few things......

[paz]

Quote:

Originally Posted by coffeeman We've recently acquired 2 Dahons folding bicycles. It seems that I've seen where State Parks require the use of helmets however I can't seem to find anything to support that. Any input would be appreciated and any recommendation for helmets that you might share.

I am not aware of any state that requires the use of bicycle helmets for adults. However, if a state has a law that requires children under a certain age to wear helmets, the state park will enforce that law. As others have stated, wearing a helmet is a good idea even if it is not required.

[wkdwitch]

Georgia State Parks for under age 16 only.

[wa8yxm]

Some parks do, some do not. I do not know specificlly about state parks but I do know the Kensnigton-Clinton, Metrparks authority (South East Michigan) does require helmets.. One of my police dispatcher co-workers got ticketed for not wearing.

On another hand: Wearing of helmets is a safety issue.. Same as on Motorcycles

On the other foot: I usually leave my helmet in the storage compartment on the motor home.

[dancogan]

I don't think there are state laws in Michigan requiring bicycle helmets, but there are some parks I ride in that require helmets. That includes county and state parks. As others have said, I wouldn't ride a bike without a helmet.

[Frank P. Martin]

Pennsylvania has a whole boatload (HA!.. boatload... maybe I should have said bikeload) of laws pertaiing to bicycles (pedalcycles). You can read them all on PENNDOT's website via the link below.

Pennsylvania Bicycle Laws

All children under the age of 12 must wear an approved helmet. Since my wife and I are big kids at heart, we wear our helmets too. I think it's a good thing to do, and sets a good, positive example for children when they see adults wearing helmets too.

[Vegasdan]

Go to www.bikenashbar.com and shop for their sale items. For casual use, just the cheapest will do the job. I used to race semi-pro and still put on 1500 to 2000 miles a year on the bike and I have never ridden without one. The new ones are light and well ventilated. I had one bad wreck once while riding in a pack, touched a wheel with my front wheel and went down at 20+MPH. You cannot keep your head from hitting the pavement when you go down at speed. I ended up breaking my helmet in half but saved my skull.

[coffeeman]

Great response...this turned out to be very enlightening. We'll get helmets although it seems to be a personal choice whether to wear or not. Thanks to all...