Name some good bicycle helmets for kids 9-15 yrs and why are they so good?

mark_hensl

Is their any additional padding that a child should have on their little bodies, or will the helmet suffice?
Thanks.

P.S. is it a national law that parents must wear a helmet? If so what do you where and why? Any other pads? Thanks.

Answer
All Wal*Mart helmets or other chain / low cost store helmets have passed safety standards in the U.S. That's why thaey can be sold here...

So.. anything you buy will meet the same standards... Expensive or cheap.

Buy something that your child likes (color / graphics), otherwise they will fight wearing it...

The bigger the vents, the cooler they are.. probably not a critical thing for a child sitting in a bike seat not doing any strenuous exercise, but once your 9 to 15 year old is doing the hard work of pedaling, then a cooler helmet will be nice.

Expensive helmets are usually lighter, and have bigger vents... That's where the differences are... Not in the amount of protection they offer.

My state does not have a helmet law (bicycles or motorcycles). so there is nothing "National".. your state may have specific helmet laws.. you need to check on that.

BMX helmets give the illusion of offering more protection.. it may be more than an illusion though. They cover more of the skull. They are more like a hockey helmet... They have a higher "cool" factor than a regular bike helmet... since they are also used by the skateboard gang.. They may be a bit heavier though.

Fingerless gloves with padding in the palms are the only other riding item I would suggest...

Free Bicycle Helmets???

RaLoh

We have 5 active children and they live in their bike helmets.... the rule in our house is "if it has wheels you had better be wearing a helmet". Bicycle helmets are required by Law here in NYS and it amazes me how many children come to my house without them. If they are at our home without a helmet they are not allowed on their bikes.

Is there a place I can contact for free bike helmets?? I would love nothing more than to make sure every kid in my town has one.... and wears it. Even though it is a law, it is not enforced in my town, which kills me.

Thank you in advance for any information.

Answer
I'm in South Carolina and we have an an organization called "Safe Kids" if you google the name I'm sure that you can find a contact in NY. If not please contact them here in SC and they'll get you networked with the right person

Good Luck

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Has your town ever been plagued by low flying, migrating motorbike helmets? If so, what was it like?

Super Midg

LOL
Y!A suggested category: Travel > Australia & New Zealand > General - Australia & New Zealand

Answer
Whatcha taking right now ?

Has your town ever been plagued by low flying, migrating motorbike helmets? If so, what was it like?

Super Midg

LOL
Y!A suggested category: Travel > Australia & New Zealand > General - Australia & New Zealand

Answer
Ermm, no.
Long time since I "saved" one of your questions going unanswered.

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Is it necessary to wear a helmet if you are just strolling around aimlessly around town on your bike?

BeteLise

Answer
Is it necessary? No.Not unless it's a law in your town. Is it a smart thing to do? Maybe. But don't depend on a helmet to be the absolute last word in bicycle safety. You still need to use the gray matter beneath your helmet to be safe. For instance, a helmet won't protect you from breaking your collarbone or loosing skin from road rash. Safety involves a number of things of which a helmet is only a small part.

Having said that ... the way you phrase your question really bothers me. I would never "just stroll(ing) around aimlessly" on my bike. You should always pay attention to what's going on around you if you want to be safe. Not paying attention will get you killed faster than anything.

Helmet for rollerblading?

Joe B

I am in my late twenties. When rollerblades first came out (when I was around 10), I used to skate a lot. Being a child, I always wore a helmet and fell flat on my back enough time to warrant it. Then the fad passed. Later on, I purchased an expensive set of skates and would skate around college (around 2002). By this time, "skating" for most young people referred only to skateboarding and I felt like a total dork with my helmet and pads. Because of my schedule, I gave it up. Now I would like to give it another go. Since I have broken my left wrist twice (not related to rollerblading), I feel I should wear wrist guards. However, because I'm not up on a bike or likely to fall backwards anymore, I am wondering whether a helmet is necessary. Is it overbundled and dorky or just appropriate? Would others roll their eyes seeing me not wear one?

Answer
Inline skating (Rollerblade is only the name of one company) is more of an adult sport now days.

You want the helmet and wrist guards. Head hits are a lot less common than other falls, but can be horrible. I skate with a lot of people including both beginners and very experienced skaters. The worse head hits that I know about have been on the more experienced skaters. A couple friends have had headaches for weeks or months after a head hit. One person that I knew by sight but not personally who had been skating for over a decade fell in a very safe venue, hit the back of his head, and died on the way to the hospital. No one saw how he fell and security footage (not in sight of his fall) indicated that no one else was near him. Doctors said that he would have lived if he was wearing a helmet.

For rec skating (no tricks and minimal backwards skating) a bicycle helmet is suitable and more comfortable than a "multi sport" helmet that has more side and back of head protection.

Most falls do end up with the hands sliding on the ground. I wear glove style wrist guards like aggressive skaters use. They are more flexible than the cheaper splint type guards that are more common but also have leather covering the palm and back of the hand so that it keeps the skin from getting shredded.

Most adults that I know wear helmets (the one that had headaches for months strongly suggest them to others) while skating.
Bystanders really don't care one way or the other.

I don't wear elbow or knee pads. Elbow pads are rare among people I know but knee pads are about 50/50. I have met people who have had other pads (one using rib pads for horse back riding) due to previous injuries and risks.

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Is it considered dorky to wear a bicycle helmet?

PureGold

I'm an 18-old-girl, and I've cycled a lot in the past, but not for a few years. I want to get back into it and get in shape by bicycling about 3.5 miles to and from an internship I'm starting soon, which will be 3 days a week for about 2 months. Whenever I see other teens riding their bikes around my neighborhood (NY suburbs) they don't seem to have helmets, but I've also heard lots of stories about bike accidents in which helmets saved people's lives, and I'm more into being safe than sorry. Is it weird I almost don't want to start biking again because I'm afraid of looking silly in a helmet? I get self-conscious, and I just want to know what other people, especially people my age, will think when they see me in one. Thanks in advance for your opinions!

Answer
Pure

The best cyclists in the world wear them, both roadies and mtn bikers. Can you handle a bike better than them? Accidents happen quickly, often at no fault of the rider. Just a little water, a little street paint, a parallel crack in the road. When you go down on a bike it either a road rash, or it is a serious shoulder / upper torso head fall. It happens sooooo very fast!

A helmet has saved my life once, possibly twice. Several of my other riding partners have had similar experiences.

There are several things bike riders do not leave home without. A seat pack with spares tube, flat kit, tire iron and mini pump, cycling shorts, water bottle, and helmet.

You need to take it from those of us that do ride seriously.... we do not ride without helmets!

You would never play competitive sports like football, hockey, lacrosse, motorcycling, baseball... all these sports save lives every year by having established a proper helmet for their athletes..... helmets that are sport specific to provide maximum safety without sacrificing performance. Cycling is a high speed sport relative to almost all the others.... it amplifies the damage that can be done.

You want to be treated like an adult? Make and adult decision! You won't look silly, and who cares anyway... be stronger not weaker!

Soccerref

Soccerref

Bicycle safety for a toddler?

Kaylea's M

Which bike seat is good for a 18 month old. The seat that goes on the back of the bike or the trailer that trails behind it? Which is safer? My opinion is she would be safer in the trailer with a helmet on that way if you fall, maybe she wont get so scaped up..

Answer
We don't bike much, but several children in my daughter's daycare get biked to daycare (she goes to a university daycare center). Those parents almost all use the Burley trailer that you attach behind your bike. The toddlers ALWAYS use helmets and are strapped in with seat belts, so it's still safe. I first noticed it in the 15-24 month classroom, so I'm not sure I'd do it any earlier as you want to make sure your child is physically mature enough for it.

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Choose only one of the following helmet types to research:?

Q. Choose only one of the following helmet types to research:
⢠bicycle
⢠space suit
⢠motorcycle
Report on your work in a well-organized and well-written
report. Your report must include relevant sample calculations
and examples; a thorough discussion of the principles of physics
described in this unit; and appropriate diagrams and notations to
demonstrate your understanding of the relationship between the
design of the helmet and its use.
Thanks in advance!

Answer
go for motorcycle helmets as there is lots of info on how they are made & testing +the bs , ce , snell. eu, standards & lots of others,

How do bicycle helmets work?

Forgetful

There is a "shell" and a "liner" in a bicycle helmet, right? what is the purpose of those things? Is the shell supposed to stop it from breaking or is the liner supposed to be crushed?
Simple language please.
thanks!!!!!

Answer
There are variations depending upon the quality of the helmet and the purpose... for example, some DH helmets are practically MX helmets now but, in general...

Bike helmets have the liner and shell as you've mentioned, the liner actually does the majority of work in saving you from a fall. The shell is really just there to prevent things like stick and such on the tral from penetrating the liner and stabbing you in the head, or to keep the liner from coming apart on hard impacts. The liner is what handles the energy transfer that prevents you from sustaining severe injury. When you take an impact, the liner is supposed to get crushed... in doing so, it converts the kinetic energy (the energy of an object in motion) of the impact into thermal energy (heat) as the liner is crushed. Remember, energy can never be created or destroyed, it can only change forms... The type of material used in the liner and the overall quality of the helmet determine just how effective it is but that's the basic principle in ALL helmets actually. Most common helmets use an EPS liner, Expanded PolyStyrine, and are good for just one serious impact... Once the liner has been crushed, it no longer has the capacity to be crushed much further to allow for the conversion of energy needed to protect your head. Some other helmets use materials that allow the energy conversion to take place repeatedly and only need to be replaced if the shell material is compromised... these are typically MX helmets or very high-end downhill helmets.

Also, it's worth noting that essentially all bike helmets pass the same certifications so there isnt a whole lot of difference in protection between a $40 helmet and a $140 helmet... Most of the extra money that you pay goes into what was spent on R&D to figure out a way to incorporate more vents into the helmet without lessening the protection offered.

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How to give a sports bike personal flare? Do people paint it?

blackcat22

I've never had nor kept up with sports bikes but I'm in the market for a new bike and there are some good sports bikes in my range. However if I got one I'd want to make it 'mine'.
I just want to know what's the deal with the 'coat' over them? I heard you can buy new ones and replace them, is this true? Is it expensive? What about just painting it, does that work? Perhaps stickers?
I really don't know so please fill me in.

Talkin about the red, as an example.
http://psndealer.com/dealersite/images/newvehicles/2000ninja250r.jpg
Keep on topic, on topic.
If anyone cares I actually do have a cool helmet, check link.
http://blackcat2240.deviantart.com/#/d4o5w1e

Answer
To really personalize a bike is very expensive, custom paint jobs don't come cheap and more often than not they don't add anything to the looks of the bike and almost never add value. A cheaper alternative is to buy a clean classic bike or an older model that is not often seen.

The clothes you wear also effect the look of the bike, there's something not quite right about wearing a sports helmet on a cruiser.

Early 1990's 250cc Kawasaki KR1 http://www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/Gallery/Kawasaki%20KR-1%2088%20%202.jpg


That helmet is cool! http://blackcat2240.deviantart.com/#/d4o5w1e

Am I too tall for a Schwinn Varsity Road Bike sold at Wal-Mart?

MaBon

I am 6'4" tall and my legs are much longer than my upper body.

Answer
Holy Cow you are waaaay too tall! And you're really doing yourself a disservice buying a bike from Wal-Mart. Don't want to be a downer but they offer a false economy - meaning that they are fancy looking but are likely to break in a hurry. Especially for us bigger guys.

Listen, I'm 6'5" and I have a long torso and I can't fit on bikes that are sold in stores. In the last 20 years frame makers have aimed towards the middle of human sizes to lower costs. That means that the frames you'll find most of the time or made for people from 5'6" to 6'0". That excludes a lot of women and all tall guys since we are in the minority of bike buyers. Without getting too technical most frames stop at 62cm or about 25" in their frame sizing. I like 64-65cm frames and I bet you would be there too with your long legs just to give you a place to start from.

Does that mean you can't ride a bike? Of course not! I love to ride and have picked up a few different bikes over the years. What I suggest you do is make your way to a local bike shop and take a few minutes to get a feel of the place. If the people there are friendly and willing to talk about how much they love to ride bikes then you're in a good place. Hopefully some shops in your area sell second hand bikes. Outside a big city this is harder too do, but an older bikes come in bigger sizes and are inexpensive to customize to your needs.

For example, I've done just this with an older ('87) Schwinn Voyageur. It's a fantastic bike that you can look around and find used for a few hundred dollars. I upgraded most of the bike and for a grand total of about $450 I have a bike I would ride across America on. There are lots of quality older bikes out there. Craiglist.org is also a good place to hunt if you have trouble finding a good bike shop.

My advice would be to stay away from Wal-Mart and find a bike shop you're comfortable doing business in and see if they can point you in the right direction within your budget. A longer seat post, stem and cranks on an older road frame will make you much happier and more comfortable vs. trying to squeeze yourself onto a small new bike. And the more comfortable you are on it the more you ride it, and the more of a value it becomes.

I hope this helps. Have fun and be safe. Don't forget to wear your helmet!

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Is a bike helmet really safe?

Shaz

Recently I fell off my bike and landed on my face, giving me lots of painful facial grazes and cuts...wasn't too nice. I wasn't wearing a helmet at the time but someone told me that it wouldn't have made a difference because I landed on my face and that actually a helmet could have broken my neck or made the injury worse.
Does anyone know if this is true cos it's making me unsure as to whether I should wear a helmet next time I cycle or not?

Answer
In the UK the CTC [1] are against compulsory helmet use. They reason that it has demonstrably damaged the case for cycling in countries where such a law has been introduced.

However, I always wear a helmet. It is sometimes hot and uncomfortable, but I firmly believe that it provides good protection against brain damage. Richard Ballantine [2] was very much of the same opinion in his original Bicycle Book.

Many cycling accidents happen at low speed where the rider is pitched over the handlebars and the head is the first contact with the ground.

If a helmet works and saves a rider from injury, then no government statistic or hospital records will be created. Instead there will be one more helmet purchase as a grateful rider buys a replacement! So any statistics on helmets making an injury worse or not preventing an injury will be substantially skewed by the silent majority of cases.

Now to your specific case: Yep, it must really hurt injuring your face like that. But your face absorbed the impact that your brain could have receieved had you landed slightly differently. The fact that a helmet sticks out about 1.5 inches might have reduced the impact to your face. If a helmet were worn incorrectly (such as tilted right back; something I frequently see) then it might damage your neck. However, worn correctly and with the straps done up, I fail to see how it could make the situation worse. Anyway, facial injuries may be unpleasant and require plastic surgery, but they are a lot more recoverable than brain injuries.

So, on balance, I'd suggest you wear a helmet and ignore the alarmist view that caused you to post your question.

is this a good bike helmet?

Jamie J

http://www.jejamescycles.co.uk/id33802.html

can't find many reviews :s

Answer
Never heard of it , but if you don't already have a riding helmet, you will need it.

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Trying to buy a new 09 yamaha r6 street bike. need some help!?

Justin D

i want to get a r6. i am new to street bikes and have only test drove my buddies r6 raven from 2006. i love the way the bike feels. im not sure if i should buy new or get a used bike. im afraid that if i buy used, the bike would have been run into the ground and not taken to get scheduled maintenance. let me know what i should do and how to know im getting a good deal. thank you

Answer
Buy something used and inexpensive for a starter bike.

Look for something old but not too old. You don't want something so old that it is a junker, but not something so new that you'll feel bad if you lay it down.

Look for something in the 500 - 800 CC engine size. This will be powerful enough so you don't get bored too soon, but not so fast that you will be afraid of it.

Look for a standard or cruiser bike for your first bike. They are more forgiving and usually have less power than a sport bike with the same size engine. Although cruisers are heavier than other bikes they have the lowest center of gravity and are easy to balance considering their weight. Stay away from the sport bikes for your first bike as they require more skill. Going with a sport bike for your first bike is like getting a Formula 1 race car for your first car, not a good idea. Also used sport bikes tend to be more abused.

Consider the fit of the motorcycle. People come in all sorts of different shapes and sizes. So do motorcycles. When selecting a motorcycle consider how well it fits your body. Ask yourself how well you can put both feet flat on the ground. Ask yourself how well the seating position feels. Do you have to reach too far to the handlebars? Riding hunched over can get uncomfortable very fast. Is the foot peg location comfortable? Does the bike feel too big or too small? An uncomfortable motorcycle won't be much fun to ride for any amount of distance. However, a bike that fits you well will be lots of fun.

Avoid buying over the Internet. I would never buy a motorcycle site unseen. You could very easily end up paying too much for junk. Always do a visual inspection and test ride before buying a motorcycle. When you go to look at the bike, bring a helmet. If you do not have your motorcycle license yet, bring a friend with a motorcycle license and 2 helmets.

Watch the classified section of your local news paper. Some locations have shopper magazines with used motorcycles in your area. Reasonably priced used bikes are out there. Be patient. Don't buy too quickly, but if you find one you like, buy it right away. If you find a good starter bike, don't hesitate as they can sell quickly.

Don't get hung up on any particular brand. All of the name brands are about the same. Pay more attention to the bike's condition. If any one brand were really superior to all other brands, this would be the only brand bike on the road. In addition, if any brand bike was really inferior to the other brands, nobody would buy them and the company would be out of business.

Learn on this bike. Make your mistakes on it. You will make mistakes. Nearly all new riders will lay their bike on its side at least once. Would you rather make your mistakes on an older bike or your nice shiny expensive new bike?

The most important thing you should do when getting your first bike is to take a motorcycle safety course.

After you have been riding a while and gain some experience, you can sell your starter bike and get the one you want. If maintained properly and not abused, you won't lose too much money on your starter bike. Put the money from the sale towards the bike you really want. By this time, you will have figured out what style bike best suits your riding style and needs.

If you settle on a sport bike for your next bike, avoid the used ones. Young riders think they are racers on racing bikes and tend to beat the crap out of them so they are likely to be more abused. So if considering a sport bike, consider something new.

I know I used variations of this answer before. However, I feel this is good advice.

Use your head while riding. Remember, Stupid Hurts.

Have fun - Ride safe


Beginner bike list -

Suzuki GS500F (Sporty)
Kawasaki Ninja 500R (My current bike...dated but sporty)
Kawasaki Vulcan 500 LTD (cruiser)
Yamaha V-Star 650 Custom (Cruiser)
Suzuki DR-Z400SM (Dual Sport)
Honda Shadow Aero/Spirit 750 (Cruiser)
Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 XL Low (Cruiser)
Suzuki GSX650F (sporty)
Triumph Bonneville (Cruiser)
BMW G650 Xcountry (Dual Sport)
Kawasaki Ninja 250R (Sporty)
Suzuki SV650F (Sporty)
Suzuki SV650 (Naked)
Hyosung GT250R (sporty)

and what to look for on a used bike

http://www.clarity.net/~adam/buying-bike.html

looking to buy a street bike?

Puerto Ric

ive never rode one before what is a good size to get for a new rider. what about a gsxr 600 or is that really bad to start with??? please give me some info thanks.

Answer
hey man, i was in your shoes about a month ago. first think finance before anything. i bought a 1989 honda 250 interceptor.

BRC - free (for me, military dependent)
BRC for you - $200
bike - $900 ( i got him to bring it down from $1100)
helmet - $60 (dont need one? think again, BUGS, WIND oh yeah SAFETY)
Title - $210
insurance - $253 and some change for 12 months (really cheap by the way)
tune up - 210

you just need time, hope you have job. because over time you'll accomplish all these goals.

i dont know how fast you'll learn to ride but this takes practice.

start with 250, lookinf for a 250 is preety easy, the rest if the harder part but it can be done.

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Does anyone know where I can get a King Head Bicycle Helmet size 67 cm. & larger ?

Fred E

I need a big head Road bicycle helmet

Answer
you must be like 7 feet tall or something

I need a bicycle helmet?

smush

and I have a big head. The extra large ones at the bike stores are too small. Am I out of luck with getting one or is there some sort of manufacturer that makes bigger helmets?

Answer
Go to a well-stocked place like a Performance Bike Shop. You should be able to find one that fits you among all the different brands and models that they carry. Unfortunately, it may not be one of the less expensive ones. Still, spend the money. Your head is worth it.

HTH

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How old should a baby be to ride in a bike seat?

blank

Like one of the seats that attaches onto the back of a bicycle? They need to wear a helmet in that, right? Where can you get helmets for babies, do they make them?

Answer
Hi, yes they definitely need to use a helmet, buy a high quality one from a reputable bike store not a toy one for use on kiddies bikes, as if they do fall they will fall from a much greater height. Bell is a good make I believe. My daughter rode in the back from about 9 months they need to have complete head control, and be able to sit reasonably still or they will throw you off balance a bit. The problem I found was I had a non recline seat and as the helmet was at its tightest setting it stuck out a bit at the back and made her head drop forwards if she fell asleep. I replaced this with a reclining seat which helped with this problem a little. She is now 2 and rides on the back no problem at all, all though she prefers to ride her own bike now. Make sure you ride in high visibility jackets and stick to quite roads, or cycle paths as much as possible - cars make no allowances for children!!!

At what age did you put your baby in a baby bike seat and take them for a ride?

lilsnob868

How old were they? I researched it on the internet and they recommend them to be one year old. My son is 9 months and sits up well and everything. All i have to do is buy him a bike helmet online. So what age was your baby? thanks
if you fall the baby has a helmet on duh? and he is securely strapped in his bike seat.
is the baby trailer safe? does it securely strap the baby in? does it just lay down or can you sit your baby up?

Answer
I don't have the seat, I have the pull behind trailer. I started using it as soon as I got it, my son was 6 months old. I like and trust the trailer more than I would the seat. If for some reason I should fall, the trailer will remain upright. There's a roll bar in it too, so if it does flip I know he's safe.
*edit* He gets strapped in

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I have a question about biking and skating helmets... you all should know the answer?

Frank

you know how bicycle helmets look like this

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41VBFFTKQSL._Bell%20Influx%20Bike%20Helmet_.jpg


And how skate boarding helmets look like this...


http://www.trimmerassist.net/images/tec_skate_helmet.jpg



my question is


WHY!?


One clearly has more ventilation

So why have less holes?

And it's more aerodynamic too!


So why does the skate boarding helmet look like that?
AND WHY DOES IT EXIST IN THE FIRST PLACE?

Answer
Well, the skateboarding helmet is probably designed more for protection and less for its aerodynamic ability. Think of it like this, who goes further more often without crashing, the biker or the skateboarder? Obviously the biker. Skateboarding will expose you to injury very very often, whether it be a scrape or something more serious like a concussion. While biking you don't really have to worry about accidentally falling or hurting yourself, at least not that often. Biking helmets are more of a just in-case precaution to make sure you don't sustain any very serious injury, if god forbid you do get hurt. Oh, plus - less ventilation on the skateboarding helmet means more protection.

Does wearing a bicycle helmet while skateboarding still protect you from serious head trauma?

jo

I have a bike helmet and can't afford a new helmet for skating. I want to skate small ramps but don't want a concussion, because I know I'll fall learning stuff.

Answer
Bike helmets are not made for repeated blows get a skateboard helmet. No, the protection is not near as good.

http://www.walmart.com/search/search-ng.do?ic=16_0&Find=Find&search_query=skateboard+helmet&Find=Find&search_constraint=0

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What type of bike helmet works best?

Blake

I am getting a bike some time this week. I am a beginning bicyclist. So I am not sure.

Answer
Movie

All bicycle helmets must meet the same standards.... so get the one that feels the best! What you get when you pay more and more is: more exotic materials, more and better air vents, better fit, and better retention systems.

The shape of my head works well with Giro helmets. Several other of the major manufacturers have shaped which actually hurt for me to wear. So go and try them out.... there is a differenc to the way they feel!

But do, always, wear that helmet!

Soccerref

How do bicycle helmets work?

Forgetful

There is a "shell" and a "liner" in a bicycle helmet, right? what is the purpose of those things? Is the shell supposed to stop it from breaking or is the liner supposed to be crushed?
Simple language please.
thanks!!!!!

Answer
There are variations depending upon the quality of the helmet and the purpose... for example, some DH helmets are practically MX helmets now but, in general...

Bike helmets have the liner and shell as you've mentioned, the liner actually does the majority of work in saving you from a fall. The shell is really just there to prevent things like stick and such on the tral from penetrating the liner and stabbing you in the head, or to keep the liner from coming apart on hard impacts. The liner is what handles the energy transfer that prevents you from sustaining severe injury. When you take an impact, the liner is supposed to get crushed... in doing so, it converts the kinetic energy (the energy of an object in motion) of the impact into thermal energy (heat) as the liner is crushed. Remember, energy can never be created or destroyed, it can only change forms... The type of material used in the liner and the overall quality of the helmet determine just how effective it is but that's the basic principle in ALL helmets actually. Most common helmets use an EPS liner, Expanded PolyStyrine, and are good for just one serious impact... Once the liner has been crushed, it no longer has the capacity to be crushed much further to allow for the conversion of energy needed to protect your head. Some other helmets use materials that allow the energy conversion to take place repeatedly and only need to be replaced if the shell material is compromised... these are typically MX helmets or very high-end downhill helmets.

Also, it's worth noting that essentially all bike helmets pass the same certifications so there isnt a whole lot of difference in protection between a $40 helmet and a $140 helmet... Most of the extra money that you pay goes into what was spent on R&D to figure out a way to incorporate more vents into the helmet without lessening the protection offered.

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Are there any offroad helmets for bikes?

Mike S

I'm looking for an offroad/motocross-style bike helmet that I plan to use for BMX. Are there any companies that make cheap motorcycle helmets (under $50?) or replicas for bicycles that look like an offroad helmet? Thanks!

Answer
I think you're wanting to get a full-face style helmet, right? If that's what you mean by offroad and moto. I don't think I've ever seen any for $50 or under, not even on super closeout sales. There are some good ones that won't break the bank, though.

Pryme makes a decent one that usually sells for $65-$80 and I think Pro-Tec has one in that range, too. Bell, Azonic, and Giro all have some cheaper models if you shop around. Full-face helmets can get expensive quickly, but most of them are $140 or less, several of them in the $90-$120 range.

Look at http://www.pricepoint.com , http://www.nashbar.com , http://www.jensonusa.com , and http://www.blueskycycling.com for good helmet deals. Nashbar and Performance usually have good closeouts and often offer coupons for an even greater deal on a helmet.

Also, check out the Pro-Tec Ace Dig....not a full-face, but it's kinda retro. Sort of a skate lid with a visor and some nice shaping. You might like it, and it's different. :o)

Also, check out the Pro-Tec Ace

Do I need to wear a helmet in California?

SaSa

I''m fifteen going on sixteen in a couple of weeks. Is it illegal to ride w/o a helmet at my age? I have all the other stuff I need on my bike: lights, reflectors, etc...
In case it is illegal, what are the chances of a cop deciding to pull me over?
that would be lying.....but i like it :P

Answer
here is what California says (verbatim):
§ 21212. Bicycle helmets; wearing and selling helmets in conformance with law; violations and penalties; use of penalty collections

(a) A person under 18 years of age shall not operate a bicycle, or ride upon a bicycle as a passenger, upon a street, bikeway, as defined in Section 890.4 of the Streets and Highways Code, or any other public bicycle path or trail unless that person is wearing a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet that meets the standards of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI Z 90.4 bicycle helmet standard), the Snell Memorial Foundation's Standard for Protective Headgear for Use in Bicycling, or the American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM F-1447 standard). This requirement also applies to a person who rides upon a bicycle while in a restraining seat that is attached to the bicycle or in a trailer towed by the bicycle.

(b) Any helmet sold or offered for sale for use by operators and passengers of bicycles shall be conspicuously labeled in accordance with the standard described in subdivision (a) which shall constitute the manufacturer's certification that the helmet conforms to the applicable safety standards.

(c) No person shall sell, or offer for sale, for use by an operator or passenger of a bicycle any safety helmet which is not of a type meeting requirements established by this section.

(d) Any charge under this subdivision shall be dismissed when the person charged alleges in court, under oath, that the charge against the person is the first charge against that person under this subdivision, unless it is otherwise established in court that the charge is not the first charge against the person.

(e) Except as provided in subdivision (d), a violation of this section is an infraction punishable by a fine of not more than twenty-five dollars ($25). The parent or legal guardian having control or custody of an unemancipated minor whose conduct violates this section shall be jointly and severally liable with the minor for the amount of the fine imposed pursuant to this subdivision.

(f) Notwithstanding Section 1463 of the Penal Code or any other provision of law, the fines collected for a violation of this section shall be allocated as follows:

(1) Seventy-two and one-half percent of the amount collected shall be deposited in a special account of the county health department, to be used for bicycle safety education and for assisting low-income families in obtaining approved bicycle helmets for children under the age of 18 years, either on a loan or purchase basis. The county may contract for the implementation of this program, which, to the extent practicable, shall be operated in conjunction with the child passenger restraint program pursuant to Section 27360.

(2) Two and one-half percent of the amount collected shall be deposited in the county treasury to be used by the county to administer the program described in paragraph (1).

(3) If the violation occurred within a city, 25 percent of the amount collected shall be transferred to and deposited in the treasury of that city. If the violation occurred in an unincorporated area, this 25 percent shall be deposited and used pursuant to paragraph (1).

Get caught and there seems to be a $25.00 fine.

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Motocross Bike and Equipment?

Black Dawn

I'm a girl, 15 years old, 5 foot 6 and 107 pounds and I was wondering what equipment and bike I would need to start motocross, Thanks!

Answer
Someone and Tin Can Sailor have steered you right.

Bike: Under 125cc's. You don't have to buy new, purchase used and save some money. Most people won't admit it, but horsepower and suspension travel haven't greatly increased in the last 10 years. This means you could purchase a 10 year old bike and still be competitive at local amateur events (2 weeks ago I took out my 1980 Kawasaki KX250 to a local track and beat some guys on 2009 & 2010 open class thumpers that were there. Rider ability does come into play, but my bike is literally 30 years old! That Kaw isn't even my race bike, it's a used bike I picked up on Ebay for $475.00 about 3 months ago). Buy a shop manual for the bike you purchase. Shop time is over $85.00 an hour now, so unless you are wealthy you will be doing most of the work yourself.

Gear: Helmet (SNELL approved), goggles, long sleeve shirt, long pants, gloves and boots are the bare minimum. Make sure your boots are Motocross boots, motocross boots have smooth bottoms for sliding in the turns. Enduro boots have cleats or treads for gripping like a normal boot. You don't want your foot gripping in a turn, you want your foot to slide. I would suggest shoulder pads with a chest protector, racing pants with knee and hip protection and a kidney belt. Racing gear is expensive. You can save money buy purchasing used. Check Ebay, Craigslist, yard sales, flea markets, etc.

Practice: You will need to ride/practice. You need to ride in a variety of conditions and terrain. Weather conditions - hot, cold, raining, etc. Get used to riding in all sorts of weather, that way on race day it won't bother you because you've already done it before. Terrain - You want to ride on sand, dirt, grass, mud, etc to get used to how your bike runs in those conditions. This way you will be able to ride a variety of tracks and even be able to handle if the weather changes during a race.
Variety - You want to practice jumps, left turns, right turns, whoops, etc. You want to be able to handle the bike on all types of tracks.

Local tracks for practice: I am sure you have a place that you can ride at already. If not, check with the local shops or people at school to see where they are riding at. When you go out riding, walk the track first. Most "local" tracks where people go out and ride at are usually dumping grounds. This means that the track has changed from yesterday. People who don't want to pay to dump garbage will dump it on the motocross track. This means your landing area for your double jump might now have a kitchen stove at the bottom. Always walk the track, even at a sanctioned event.

If you do decide to start racing, you will have to join the AMA (American Motorcycle Association). Local tracks hold "sanctioned events" and you have to be a member to race.

I realize that you are 15, but you are "light" for your age. You should be weighing close to 130lbs. You need to put on some muscle mass. Motocross is the 2nd most physically demanding sport in the world, you need to be in top physical condition. You should start running (at least 2 miles a day - under 8 minute miles), lifting weights (bench press, shoulder press, squats, chin ups, etc). You should be able to bench press your own body weight and leg press twice your body weight. You are also probably going to have to do some sort of grip strength exercises. Most riders find that their grip gives out long before the rest of their bodies. Work on grip and forearm exercises to increase your grip strength and endurance.

There is an old book out there titled: "how to win at motocross" by Gary Bailey. It is the most accurate book on riding I have ever read,

Good luck and have fun.

What Are Some Good Beginner Sports Bikes?

Aubrey

I'm working with a $2,000-$2,500 budget-

What Should I be looking for when choosing a good first bike?

I'm looking for a sports bike/crotch rocket.

Answer
Winter is a good time to buy a used bike, as a lot of folks sell when the weather starts getting bad.

Sports bikes in general do not make good first bikes, just because new riders tend to lack some of the fine control skills that riding a sports bike requires. Also, the full fairings on a sport bike will be expensive if you drop the bike. A simple parking lot drop of the bike can do more than $1000 in cosmetic damage to a sport bike.

There are a few sport bikes that are setup as more beginner friendly, typically this means that the engine and suspension are setup to be a little more forgiving should you inadvertently make a mistake. Some of this might be available in the 2k-2.5k range. I would look for something like:

SV650S (the SV650 is the same bike, only as a standard (no fairing, more upright seating), which makes an excellent beginner bike).
FZ-6
Suzuki Bandit 600S (just like the SV, the Bandit 600 is a standard, the 600s is a sport).
Suzuki Katana 600
GS500F (the Suzuki GS500 has been in sportbike form for the last few years - older models will be standards).
Kawasaki Ninja 250 or 500. (The 250 might be a little small. Although you could probably get a fairly new one for $2500).

An older version of most of these bikes should be available in the $2000-2500 range. I would expect something from around 2000-2001 to cost around that much. I would start checking out classified ads, and online sites like craigslist, and even Ebay (you can use advanced options in Ebay to search for local listings).
A lot of the entry-level sportbikes have half fairings (like the FZ-6 or the SV650S), which means you have less plastic to damage if you happen to drop the bike. Even though they are setup to be more beginner friendly, these bikes will require more skill to operate than the bike you probably learned how to ride on.

In a perfect world, I think that new riders would focus on getting something functional as a first bike, and not worry about having something that looks sporty or attracts attention. As a new rider, you're likely to have a few "whoops" moments, and nothing is more heartbreaking than messing up a beautiful motorcycle - especially if it is flashy, and you wreck while a bunch of people are watching. There is always a strong market for beginner bikes, so you can sell your first bike to buy something better later on, and with maybe a year or so of riding under your belt, you'll be better able to handle much more bike than you can now.

Spend some good money on gear. Get a good, comfortable and safe helmet that fits well, and you will enjoy riding more. Sturdy riding pants and jacket will also keep you more comfortable, and make riding more enjoyable.

Last tip: I'm assuming you've taken a rider safety course. (if not, do this before you ride). Remember, the course is only a foundation. Pursue learning how to ride more safely and confidently. Consider taking an intermediate rider course once you've had your bike for a while. If you want to go fast, go to a track day, don't do it on the street. Don't get in the habit of "pushing it" on the street. Nobody gets more respect than someone who is truly a good rider, and doesn't feel the need to show off on public roads.

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Do you care that the Future is F**ked?

Dumb neoco

The world we live in today is due to the Discovery of fossil fuels and the outstanding variety of uses it has.

Here is a very, very small list
ammonia
anesthetics
antifreeze
antihistamines
antiseptics
artificial limbs
artificial turf
aspirin
awnings
balloons
ballpoint pens
bandages
basketballs
bearing grease
bicycle tires
boats
cameras
candles
car battery cases
car enamel
cassettes
caulking
cd player
cd's
clothes
clothesline
cold cream
combs
cortisone
crayons
curtains
dashboards
denture adhesive
dentures
deodorant
detergents
dice
diesel
dishes
dishwasher
dresses
drinking cups
dyes
electric blankets
electrician's tape
enamel
epoxy
eyeglasses
fan belts
faucet washers
fertilizers
fishing boots
fishing lures
fishing rods
floor wax
folding doors
food preservatives
football cleats
football helmets
footballs
footballs
gasoline
glycerin
golf bags
golf balls
guitar strings
hair coloring
hair curlers
hand lotion
heart valves
house paint
ice chests
ice cube trays
ink
insect repellent
insecticides
life jackets
linings
linoleum
lipstick
luggage
model cars
mops
motor oil
motorcycle helmet
movie film
nail polish
nylon rope
oil filters
paint
paint brushes
paint rollers
panty hose
parachutes
percolators
perfumes
petroleum jelly
pillows
plastic wood
purses
putty
refrigerant
refrigerators
roller skates
roofing
rubber cement
rubbing alcohol
safety glasses
shag rugs
shampoo
shaving cream
shoe polish
shoes
shower curtains
skis
slacks
soap
soft contact lenses
solvents
speakers
sports car bodies
sun glasses
surf boards
sweaters
synthetic rubber
telephones
tennis rackets
tents
tires
toilet seats
tool boxes
tool racks
toothbrushes
toothpaste
transparent tape
trash bags
tv cabinets
umbrellas
upholstery
vaporizers
vitamin capsules
water pipes
wheels
yarn

Second list found on Gasprices-usa.com:

air conditioners
ammonia
anti-histamines
antiseptics
artificial turf
asphalt
aspirin
balloons
bandages
boats
bottles
bras
bubble gum
butane
cameras
candles
car batteries
car bodies
carpet
cassette tapes
caulking
cds
chewing gum
combs/brushes
computers
contacts
cortisone
crayons
cream
denture adhesives
deodorant
detergents
dice
dishwashing liquid
dresses
dryers
electric blankets
electricianâs tape
fertilizers
fishing lures
fishing rods
floor wax
footballs
glues
glycerin
golf balls
guitar strings
hair
hair coloring
hair curlers
hearing aids
heart valves
heating oil
house paint
ice chests
ink
insect repellent
insulation
jet fuel
life jackets
linoleum
lip balm
lipstick
loudspeakers
medicines
mops
motor oil
motorcycle helmets
movie film
nail polish
oil filters
paddles
paint brushes
paints
parachutes
paraffin
pens
perfumes
petroleum jelly
plastic chairs
plastic cups
plastic forks
plastic wrap
plastics
plywood adhesives
refrigerators
roller-skate wheels
roofing paper
rubber bands
rubber boots
rubber cement
rubbish bags
running shoes
saccharine
seals
shirts (non-cotton)
shoe polish
shoes
shower curtains
solvents
spectacles
stereos
sweaters
table tennis balls
tape recorders
telephones
tennis rackets
thermos
tights
toilet seats
toners
toothpaste
transparencies
transparent tape
tv cabinets
typewriter/computer ribbons
tires
umbrellas
upholstery
vaporizers
vitamin capsules
volleyballs
water pipes
water skis
wax
wax paper

now heres a graph of oil consumtion http://www.indexmundi.com/energy.aspx

And now a graph of world population size http://www.unfpa.org/6billion/pages/worldpopgrowth.htm

And finnaly a graph of peak oil production http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Hubbert_peak_oil_plot.svg

I don't know about you, but i can't wait for the future !!!!!!!
great answers people, bravo.....

Answer
Not sure why we need the list, but yes, of course I'm concerned about the future. By the way, the vast majority of the things on your list don't have to be made using fossil fuels. The list would have made more sense (and been a lot shorter) if it had only included stuff that could ONLY be made from fossil fuels.

When was the first street name sign put up in Washington DC?

torataisho

I am writing a story that takes place in Washington DC in the late 1840s and I need to know if there are street signs labeling the streets. She's supposed to be getting lost while looking for a specific address. I would very much appreciate some help on this.

Answer
Miss,
the first street signs in Washington DC for this time frame (among major cities of the world of the time) were actually corner signs placed on buildings in the same cities. It wasn't until after the American Civil War (in the USA) that the street signs begin to appear as bicyclists were the ones most seeking fast direction to their locations and these signs were made of wood - bicycle clubs began putting them up. Metal street signs begin to show up on a regular basis after the First World War and during the Second World War a lot of street signs were pulled for the lack of materiél in order to build ships, jeeps, airplanes, and helmets.

I hope this helps,
Gerry

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What clothing do you recommend for riding your bicycle to work in the rain?

jellymouse

How do I stay warm and dry in the chilly (sometimes cold), wet winters in northern California? What things are necessities and what things are a waste of my money? Please give suggestions for the top of my head all the way down to the tips of my toes! Recommendations of specific brands are helpful, too.

Answer
It's been my experience that when choosing clothes for wear during inclement weather situations you have four concerns, they're affordable, keeps you dry, maintains your own level of comfort, and allows you to remain visible to motorists and pedestrians. Performancebike.com has a good selection of women's rain wear to look at, along with specs on what situations are best for those particular items. They're usually reasonable priced and if you like to shop around to compare prices before making purchases, performance bike also sells through through amazon.com.

I noticed a few guys plugging Goretex clothing. And while Goretex products are goods, if not the best, for cold and rainy days if you look at the listings on the Goretex website link provided below, they're not inexpensive in the least. The least expensive pair of waterproof pants is $100 dollars US, and the one they've made expressly for female bicyclists is twice that amount, so I'd really have to hope that those rainy days are vicious and often to justify the expense.

I can say this much confidently. If you get yourself a cap to wear under the helmet, a pair of pants and a jacket/coat that will keep your head and body dry from the rain, what you wear underneath will not matter in the least. The only concern you'll have is bicycle lighting, footwear, and socks at this point. And honestly, just about any type of comfortable waterproof footwear will do, if you're using regular pedals as opposed to clips. Best of luck to you. Ride smartly and safely.

What would be a good bicycle for the road?

purple g

I'm going to start bicycling 18 miles a week to get to my friends house. I will be riding on a county road. It is not very populated, and takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes to get there. I'm very new to bicycling long distances, and I was wondering what would be a good pedal bike to purchase for this distance. Is there a specific type of bike for riding on concrete? I currently own a mountain bike but I'm not sure if that is good for the road. Any tips or advice? Any accessories you would suggest for the road?
Thank you so much for any and all answers.

Answer
If it's all paved 100% of the way - go for a road bike. One more option would be a 'performance hybrid' or flat bar road bike as they are also called. The performance hybrid will put you in a slightly more upright sitting/riding position, but at the expense of a little speed.

Accessories? Always carry along an under-the-seat bag with a spare tube or at least a patch kit - tire levers & a way to inflate the tire once fixed...a frame pump or CO2 cartridge. Padded cycling shorts & a cycling jersey or other shirt that helps to 'wick away' moisture & perspiration. Socks too - plain old cotton tube socks when you perspire are an open invitation to athlete's foot. Go for something of a synthetic material. A good breathable helmet & a water bottle!

Articles on clothing, essentials & hydration on links below.

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does a child under 16 have to wear a bicycle helmet in medford oregon?

Terri

does a child under 16 have to wear a bicycle helmet in medford oregon

Answer
Smart cyclists of any age wear a good, well ventilated helmet. Idiots do not. Which one are you? Oh...and we also have a helmet mirror.
http://safezonemirror.com/

where can i buy a western flyer bicycle?

max

or something similar. besides ebay. with gas prices where they are- im looking for a cute bike

Answer
I found a few Tandem Western Flyers on the web sites but this is not what you want.The Western Flyer was a retro Schwinn bike that is a Beach cruiser. It is heavy and slow and can't go up a hill. It's a poor choice for a go to work bike,but as a beach cruiser it's cool. I have a retro beach cruiser like that and it's fun. You can ride on the sidewalk with them because they are slow.

I have a Bianchi Milano I just love. It's light and has a Euro look. It has seven speed Shimano Nexus gears. They are called planetary gears and shift inside the hub so your chain never moves. Very easy to use. These bikes are about 500 dollars. It is a version of a Hybrid bike. Trek makes a good one and so does Specialized and Giant who own the Schwinn name.

The best thing if you want to use it as a work bike is to get a Hybrid bike. They sit upright and allow you to change gears for hill riding. Any Bike shop has them. Even Target,Costco and Wall-Mart have them. I would always suggest a bike shop because they know how to put a bike together properly and size you as well. The bike has to be the right size or it will be a pain in the back to ride. I shop at the Specialized stores because they really fit you. I have also purchased a bike at Two Wheeler dealer in Brea California and they fit my sisters bike perfectly. They make women's specific bikes that have the geometry for a woman's build. That was important because she is 4'11". Not a bike you can buy off the shelf.
My sisters bike was a Trek 1500 or 2000 I don't remember. It was a road bike not a hybrid. She prefers the road bikes like I do. But the Hybrids are easier to use for work purposes. My sister did the Aids ride 550 miles from San Fransisco to Long Beach. Unfortunately she was hit by a car last week, on her way to work, by a 17 year old driver on a cell phone. She did stop but it's illegal for a minor to be on a cell phone while driving. My sister was making a left and the girl ran her over. She is in the hospital with a L4 fracture and a compound fracture of her arm. Her face was road pizza and had to have plastic surgery. Happily after two surgeries so far,she is recovering quickly and can walk in her back brace.
So first thing about riding, learn the rules of the road. Don't ride on the wrong side of the road. Generally you do what Motor cyclists do, except you ride on the far right of the road but not in the gutter. You can make a left just like a car or motorcycle but be careful that you are seen. I always make myself seen and make sure the cars can see me. Wear bright colors usually bike clothes. Bike pants make it easy on your butt. A good bike shop will help you with that. Never wear Black it is hard to see and don't ride at night even with a good headlight cars will never see you. Even with all that I have had drivers throw things at me. I was hit by an Ice cream cone and it felt like a hard ball. Some idiots think it's funny to slap you on the butt as they drive by. This can break your pelvis and rip their arm off.
Beware of Trucks their mirrors hang low and can hit you in the head if they are too close ripping your head off. And open car doors are a problem. Always always always wear a helmet!!!! A bike helmet not a skateboard helmet. Bike helmets are all the same as far as safety but the really expensive ones have more air holes. On a Hybrid you won't go that fast so a good 40 dollar helmet will do and don't use an old helmet. The Styrofoam oxidizes and looses it's ability to function as well. Helmets should be replaced every two years or after any crash where they hit the ground.
You should be able to get a good hybrid for about 299.00 on up. A little more then a beach cruiser. Go see a good bike shop because there is a huge difference in a department store bike. The parts are not replaceable.Basically their junk.

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