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Consumer Reports Puts Bike Helmets To Test

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Aug 10, 2009 5:45 pm US/Eastern

Consumer Reports Puts Bike Helmets To Test

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) ― Consumer Reports recently put a variety of children's bike helmets to the test, so you can make sure your child is protected.

"I rarely meet kids that were wearing their bicycle helmets. I usually meet kids that weren't wearing their helmets, or weren't wearing their helmets properly,"

Dr. Tobias wants kids to wear a bike helmet because he's seen the dire consequences of not wearing one.

In all, Consumer Reports tested a dozen helmets, ranging in price from $18 to $50.

One test applied simulates what happens when your head hits the pavement.

Another test applies sudden force to the helmets straps and buckle to see whether they stretch or break. That test helps determine whether the helmet would come off in an accident.

However, Consumer Reports says it doesn't matter whether you get a good helmet if it doesn't fit correctly. A popular Hannah Montana denim helmet is supposed to fit children ages eight and up. But, Consumer Reports found it's too big for some eight-year-olds. In fact it actually fit some adults.

"A good-fitting helmet should fit snugly even before you tighten the straps," Rich Handel said.

It should also be level and no more than one or two fingers' widths above the brow.

The straps should form a "v" under each ear and the buckle should be centered under the chin.

For young people, the Schwinn Thrasher did very well overall in Consumer Reports' tests and at $20 it's a best buy.

The Bell Trigger at $35 had the best rating. The Bell Amigo at $30 also performed well.

For toddlers, the Giro ME2 and the Bell Boomerang both performed well overall and both sell for $30.

Over time, a bicycle helmet's straps may need to be adjusted either because of stretching, slippage, or a child's growth. So make sure you check them periodically. As a rule of thumb, you should replace a helmet at least every five years, and be sure to get a new helmet after an accident.

(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

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