Most children's bike helmets fall short in critical safety tests
Child Bicycle Helmet Test Reveals Room for Improvement
A recent test of children's bicycle helmets by the Austrian Consumer Information Association (VKI) found significant potential for improvement: 15 of the 17 models tested were rated as merely "average," while two failed outright. Nevertheless, experts emphasized that "even the lowest-rated helmets in this test offer children far better protection than riding without one." In Austria, children under the age of 12 are legally required to wear a helmet while cycling.
The assessment was conducted as part of a joint project with Germany's Stiftung Warentest, the ADAC, and other European consumer organizations. No single model excelled in both crash protection and ease of use. Yet the benefits of wearing a helmet remain undeniable: according to a U.S. study, cyclists who wear helmets reduce their risk of severe traumatic brain injury by 52 percent in the event of an accident, while the risk of fatal injuries drops by 44 percent.
All 17 helmet models available in Austria provided substantial impact absorption, helping to prevent serious head injuries—though some performed better than others. Even the Abus YouDrop and Melon Urban Active, which received a "less than satisfactory" rating, adequately cushioned blows. However, their side straps and chin straps were prone to loosening, which in a worst-case scenario could cause the helmet to shift during a fall, compromising protection. In total, six models were flagged for needing improvements to their straps and buckles. The VKI also criticized the visibility of some helmets, noting that several were nearly invisible in low light.
The importance of helmets was further underscored by a separate VKI test of children's bicycles, also released on Tuesday. During testing, some young participants were thrown over the handlebars due to overly powerful front brakes—but thanks to their helmets, none were injured. Of the 11 tested 14-inch bikes designed for three- to five-year-olds, only one received a "good" rating. Five were deemed "unsatisfactory" because of problematic brakes, while the rest were rated "average."
The tested brands included Bulls, Cube, Decathlon, Puky, and Woom, with prices ranging from €115 to €533. The VKI reported that four models—Academy, Bachtenkirch, Bikestar, and Cube—had "dangerously strong front brakes." Another bike from Dino Bikes failed due to an insufficient rear brake, and its fork shaft snapped during stress testing.
