How to Fit a Bike Helmet Correctly

Make these four adjustments for maximum protection.


Bicycling Staff |

Make these four adjustments for maximum protection. – By Bicycling Staff

Meditate main

We see too many riders with a helmet game so sloppy they may as well leave the lid at home. Follow this advice for proper fit from Randy Swart, director of the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute.

RELATED: SPIN Technology Introduced to POC Helmets

1. Place the helmet on your head so it’s level front-to-back—when you look up, the front should barely be visible—and not listing to one side.

2. Tighten the strap just enough against your chin so that it pulls your helmet down a bit when you open your mouth.

3. The Y of the strap should fall just below each ear.

4. Adjust so that the lid is snug but not too tight. (It shouldn’t move when you shake your head, or leave a mark on your forehead.)

Final Test
Gently push the front of your helmet up and back. If it moves more than an 2.5 centimetres – readjust.

RELATED: First Look: Giro’s New Vanquish Aero Helmet

READ MORE ON: bike advice gear tips

Copyright © 2024 Hearst
..