The Malaysian Foldie issue 07, March 2014 | Page 15

Say no if it ain't on...

Cycling helmets are not a fashion statement, it protects your head.

The biker's advocate

Setting the pace on bicycling advocacy

HEAD protection is a must when you cycle and there are no two ways about it.

Despite that, there are some cyclists who don't care.

Why? Simply because they feel that it's a choice, it hampers their 'freedom' and bla-bla-bla. Some extreme folks even said that head protection gives cyclists "a false sense of hope".

I totally disagree with such selfish statement and am glad that only a handful of people think that way. In major cycling

events, helmets are a must. No means no ride.

If you take a fall, your head protection may save you. That' the gist of it.

And I am not taking about high-speed crashes. Even a helmet can't save you of you are hit by a truck and rolled by it.

But, that said, we can prevent injuries from fall.

If you loose your balance and hit the pavement, the helmet may save you from a concussion.

And for the sake of argument, it's also pointless to compare the cycling scenario in countries like the Netherlands and Japan where cycling is a culture and the basic amenities like cycling lanes are provided.

Even in countries like Australia, a helmet is a must. Failing which will result in legal action from the authority.

I for one, am glad that many cyclists felt that wearing a helmet is not a fashion statement, but rather a good way to prevent head injuries.

As responsible cyclists, we must give a good impression to others so that safety is always paramount in any case.

All good things said and done, my parting word are: "Ride safe, think of your loved ones."