A rider must use a safety helmet that meets recognized safety standards appropriate to their region and riding conditions. In the UK and much of Europe, helmets must comply with standards such as British Standard BS 6658:1985 with the BSI Kitemark, or the UNECE Regulation 22.05 or the newer ECE 22.06 standard, which includes advanced safety testing like rotational impact and high/low-speed impacts
. For maximum protection, full-face helmets are strongly recommended. These helmets cover the entire head and face, including the chin, which is the most common area of impact in crashes. They provide the best overall protection, shielding against impacts, wind, debris, and weather conditions, making them ideal for high-speed or urban riding
. Other helmet types include:
- Modular helmets: Offer versatility with a hinged chin bar that can be lifted, combining features of full-face and open-face helmets.
- Open-face helmets: Cover the head but leave the face exposed, offering less protection.
- Half helmets: Provide minimal coverage, leaving the face and chin exposed, and are generally less safe though sometimes used for short, low-risk rides
In summary, a rider should use a helmet that:
- Meets legal safety standards such as ECE 22.06, BS 6658, or DOT (in the US).
- Is preferably a full-face helmet for maximum protection.
- Has proper certification marks (e.g., BSI Kitemark, ECE label).
This ensures compliance with the law and optimal safety in the event of an accident
