Head injuries are the cause of death in 70 percent of fatal bicycle crashes, according to statistics released in 2008 from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Yet only 20 percent to 25 percent of bicyclists wear helmets. A properly adjusted Schwinn bicycle helmet helps protect you from life-threatening head injuries. The Consumer Product Safety Commission tests Schwinn bike helmets to make sure they conform to safety standards.
Step 1
Check the fit of the factory-installed padding. If the helmet does not feel snug and comfortable with the factory-installed pads, remove them by opening the hook-and-loop closure. Try installing the alternative set of padding provided with certain Schwinn helmet models to create a fit that conforms to the shape of your head.
Step 2
Adjust helmets with a rear-fit system so the helmet rests snugly against the back of your head. Helmet models may have an adjustable strap or a dial tensioner at the back of the helmet to tighten the fit. Turn the dial or pull the strap until the helmet is secure.
Step 3
Tighten the fit-ring to achieve the best tension if your helmet is equipped with one by twisting the knob at the back. Schwinn uses fit-rings in some helmets to adjust the tightness around the crown of the head.
Step 4
Fasten straps securely so they are equally tight. Test by looking up; you should barely see the front rim of the helmet. Place the "Y" on the side straps just beneath your ear. Tighten the chinstrap so you feel the helmet pull downward slightly if you open your mouth wide.
Step 5
Readjust the helmet straps if necessary. Adjust the straps at the back of the helmet. Loosen the glides on the side to adjust the "Y" below your ear, and retighten the glides. Readjust the strap below your chin. Repeat step 4 to make sure the straps fit correctly.
Step 6
Check in front of a mirror that the helmet sits about 1 inch above your eyebrow and level on your head. Gently move the helmet side to side and front to back. Watch to see if the skin around your eyebrows moves with the helmet. The helmet should feel comfortable as you move it, and your skin should not move with it.
Step 7
Place your hand under the front of the helmet and push back. Tighten the strap at the front of your ear if it moves over an inch. Reach around to the back of the helmet and try to lift up. Tighten the strap at the back of ear if the helmet moves over an inch.
Tips and Warnings
- If your straps do not lock in place, they may slide while you wear the helmet. Secure the straps in place with a few stitches of thread or a rubber band.
- Most children under the age of 1 cannot support the weight of a bicycle helmet. Consult a physician to help determine if the child is ready. Bicycle helmets are not designed to withstand multiple impacts. Even if the helmet does not show visible signs of damage, replace it after it has absorbed impact in an accident.
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