Steps to
Proper Helmet Fit
Bike Safety • Bike Helmet Check •
ABC Quick Check
 1)
Position:
The helmet should sit level on your head and low on your
forehead—one or two finger-widths above your eyebrow.
 2)
Side straps:
Adjust the slider on both straps to form a “V” shape under,
and slightly in front of, the ears. Lock the slider if
possible.
 3)
Chin strap:
The buckle should be centered under your chin. On most
helmets, the straps can be pulled from the back of the
helmet to lengthen or shorten the chin straps. Now buckle
your chin strap. Tighten the strap until it is snug.
 Final
fit:
-
Does your helmet fit right? Open your mouth wide…big
yawn! The helmet should pull down on the head. If not,
refer back to step 3 and tighten the chin strap.
-
Does your helmet rock back more than two fingers above
the eyebrows? If so, unbuckle, shorten the front strap
by moving the slider forward.
-
Buckle, retighten the chin strap, and test again.
-
Does your helmet rock forward into your eyes? If so,
unbuckle, tighten the back strap by moving the slider
back toward the ear. Buckle, retighten the chin strap,
and test again.
-
Roll the rubber band down to the buckle. All four straps
must go through the rubber band and be close to the
buckle to prevent the buckle from slipping.
Other
tips:
-
The helmet should fit you NOW: Buy a helmet that fits
your head now, not a helmet to “grow into.”
-
When to replace a helmet: Replace any helmet that has
been involved in a crash or is damaged.
-
Remember: A helmet can only protect you if you wear it
each time you ride!
Courtesy of the National
Highway Traffic Safety Administration
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