Rule change: Helmets to be compulsory on club rides
Rule change: Helmets to be compulsory on club rides
23 Feb 26
Helmets compulsory on club rides.
At our February meeting the Wheelers Committee agree a policy on the wearing of helmets on club rides. This policy is designed to be consistent with that of national cycling bodies. For example:
“British Cycling recommends wearing a correctly fitted helmet while cycling however we also support the right of each individual to choose whether or not to accept this recommendation and recognise the limit to the protection that helmets provide.
British Cycling’s ultimate aim is to create a safer cycling environment knowing that the safest places in the world to cycle also have the lowest rates of helmet use.
Please note that while taking part in a British Cycling-sanctioned race or sportive, the use of a helmet conforming to a recognised safety standard is mandatory.”
The committee agrees that helmets are not essential for all cycling. However, club rides – even cat 6! – are ridden at times at speeds in excess of 20mph so are analogous to sportive riding. For the safety of members, helmets should likewise be compulsory on club rides.
The club rules (https://www.herts-wheelers.org.uk/system/files/uploads/Rules%20January%202026.pdf) will be updated with the following:
11 Helmets
11.1 The use of a helmet conforming to a recognised safety standard is compulsory on all club rides.
11.2 Exceptions on the grounds of religious or unusual medical requirements should be submitted to the committee in writing at least one week before the relevant club run. Where approval is granted the Committee will make clear if they are approving a general exception or a one-off.
This rule change is subject to the following clause from the club Constitution:
5.7 Should the Committee elect to change or add a Rule notice of such intended change or addition shall be published on the Club website and Members may before the next Committee Meeting make written representations to the Committee as to whether such amended or additional Rule should be adopted.