I don't get people's resistance to helmets!

[indysteel]

Let me again clarify that I don't think and haven't said that wearing a helmet is a reflection of a cyclist's ability or legitimacy. However, I think most of us can agree that for the vast majority of cyclists (who are not on Le Tour btw) under the vast majority of conditions, helmets are a smart choice. Not the only choice, but a smart one. I barely notice my own helmet, so it's hard for me to contemplate a situation where I wouldn't just wear it. I'm not a fate tempter by nature though.

Veronica, I'm sorry that you've taken offense to my comments. I meant no disrespect to your friends. For those cyclists out there who choose to forego a helmet, either generally or under specific conditions, then that is their prerogative. While I do not agree with their decision, I do agree, that short of a law requiring helmets, it's their decision to make. I also think, however, as RoadRaven and others have pointed out, that there are legitimate concerns beyond personal choice that should be considered.

I stand by my mantra to new/inexperienced cyclists regarding the importance of wearing a helmet. I feel some "responsibility" as a more experienced cyclist to disabuse them of their notions that accidents can't unless they're on the road in thick traffic. And more than anything I would like to encourage them to prioritize their health and safety over their hair. The minute they offer a better reasoned argument than flat bangs, I'll shut the hell up.

[farrellcollie]

I generally wear a helmet. I do not care if others do or not. I feel the same way about other things I do not do such as smoking, motorcycle riding, bungee jumping, sky diving, and running with scissors. I do think that there is a rush to over-protect ourselves and children these days (and less chance that natural selection will work). Generally I believe that life is not safe and no one gets out of it alive so take responsibility for one's own self based on the risks you find acceptable and go on. I, for example, tend to eat anything in the refridgerator that is not furry, green, or really stinky - expiration dates be damned. (I live on the edge)

[Veronica]

I wasn't offended.

There are so many threads here on TE where someone is "ranting"about feeling like others have judged them. I simply wanted to point out that helmet usage is not an indicator of cycling ability and don't use the lack of a helmet to judge someone.

I'm also not saying cyclists shouldn't wear helmets.

V.