I fell for first time in 17 years

[bones]

When I was 14 I got a road/touring bike for my bday and I spent the next 3 summers on multi day bike tours. On a quick day trip I was going down a mountain went a bit off the side of the road so I turned back to sharp and wound up taking a nasty fall. I got stitches on my chin and some scrapes and bruises but I was back up the next day on a 3 day trip.
Well after 17 years and many people telling me my bike was too big ( I guess they thought I would grow into it) I decied to get a new road bike yeay. I got it two weeks ago and am leaving the US today so I had wanted to put as many miles as I could on to check out fit and kinks the bike may have had. At the end of my ride yesterday I was almost home I have no idea why but the bike just kind of sliped on the road and down I went with my bike on top of me and we both slid along the road. I have a nice big bruise under my bum and some scraped up knees, shoulder, arm. And my poor bike, the handle bar tape is ripped, brakes are all waky and I think one of the teeth on the front crank is flat. Though I don't recall hitting my head the styrafoam in the front of my helmet is cracked all the way through. Guess it is time for a new one anyone have any recomendations?
Have to take my bike to the shop today to get fixed and put in a box for my flight. I hope that my bruise ok sitting for 11 hrs.
ANy ideas on why a bike just slips out to the side for no apparent reason?

[DeniseGoldberg]

Unfortunately, sometimes things like your crash happen and you'll never really know the cause. You could have hit something in the road that caused you to skid, anything... The important thing is that you're OK. After all, the bike can be fixed!

On the helmet front, the most important thing is that it fits your head, and different brands seem to fit different shaped heads. I'd recommend trying on several and buying the helmet with the best fit for you. If weight and vents are important to you, add that to your selection criteria.

--- Denise

[Grog]

No idea either about the cause of the crash, but glad you're okay!!

As for helmets... it's amazing how different they feel on your head. And, sometimes, yes, pricier helmets are worth it. I have compared mine (50$) to a friend's racing helmet (130$) and I was stunned by the difference, his was WAY more comfy, you nearly didn't feel it. But would I fork that much money for it... maybe. Not sure.

I love Bell helmets in general but haven't tried that many yet. I'd recommend against Louis-Garneau because I've seen a guy with his hair stuck to his helmet straps (glue is used in a strange manner in these) and heard of many similar stories...

[bikerHen]

I hit a very small rock, that I didn't even see, that almost kicked my front tire out from under me. So maybe that's what happened to you?!

I have a Bell Helmet that I got at the local sporting goods store that was fairly inexpensive, fit me and fully rated. When I got my new bike, I needed a new helmet to go with it, right? I got a more expensive Giro Helmet and the fit is soooo much better. I just keep my fingers cross that I don't damage it and have to replace! BikerHen

[bikerchick68]

yikes... glad you weren't hurt worse... yep, coulda been anything... a spot of oil from a leaky car can do a heck of a lot of damage to a rider and would be nearly impossible to spot!

I just got a new helmet and the biggest difference this time was I counted the vents! My new one has 24... the old only 18... it makes HUGE difference in keeping me cool...

[CorsairMac]

I just got a new helmet and the biggest difference this time was I counted the vents! My new one has 24... the old only 18... it makes HUGE difference in keeping me cool...

IMHO - you don't need vents to make ya cool BC......you already are!!