A number of deaths have resulted from head
injury resulting from bicycle accidents. By law
in Australia you are required to wear a bike
helmet and cyclists are expect to obey the road
rules.
The best bicycle helmet to protect your head
from impact, is usually lightweight, should come
with adjustable straps, be correct fit size and
allow good peripheral vision. The helmet must
comply with Australian Safety Standards and
there is normally a label stuck to the shell
that identifies compliance.
If you are concerned about bicycle helmets for
your child you can source a copy of Choice
Magazine who have recently completed a test of a
number of brands of children’s helmets (02/06).
Further information is also available from the
Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute.
Popular
brand names for bicycle helmets are Shain,
Netti, Etto, Bell, Diamond and Giro.
Bike
Helmets, Clothing & Accessories
Sharing the road with vehicles can sometimes be hazardous so having the
right bicycle gear
can provide you with safety and comfort.
You may ask why do I need bicycle clothing or apparel ?
One good reason is visibility. Another is for seat
comfort.
There
is a range of clothing available with bright tops for
visibility. They are lightweight and cool. Bicycle
pants with a gusset can provide a lot of comfort for
your bottom.
Bicycle accessories
All
sorts of accessories are available to provide bicycle
lighting as well as rider comfort and visibility. Such
things as bicycle shoes, water bottle holders, head and
tail lights, reflectors, padded seats, seat covers.
If
riding at night your bicycle must have a white light at
the front and a red light and a red reflector at the
back.
These items are available from your local bicycle shop,
on-line bicycle stores and eBay.