Feel that? Winter is finally loosening its grip on Ottawa, and that familiar pull toward the bike shed is starting again. Before you dig out your two-wheeler and head for the Rideau River pathway, there's one thing you absolutely need to check: your helmet.
Why Your Helmet Might Not Be as Safe as You Think
Helmets degrade over time, even if they've never been in a crash. The foam lining that absorbs impact breaks down gradually through exposure to sweat, sunlight, and simple aging. Helmet manufacturers and safety experts recommend replacing a helmet every five years, even if it looks fine on the outside.
If your helmet has taken any kind of impact, a drop, a crash, anything. It should be replaced immediately, even if there's no visible damage. The foam compresses on impact and won't protect you the same way twice.
How to Check the Fit
A properly fitted helmet should:
- Sit level on your head, about two finger-widths above your eyebrows
- Have a snug but comfortable fit, no rocking forward, backward, or side to side
- Have straps that form a V-shape just below each ear
- Have a buckle that allows only one or two fingers between the strap and your chin
If yours fails any of these checks, it's time for a new one. Ottawa has several excellent cycling shops, Pecco's, Bushtukah, MEC, where staff can help you get fitted properly.
Ottawa's Cycling Season Highlights
Once you're geared up, Ottawa's pathway network is genuinely world-class. The NCC maintains over 750 km of pathways in the Capital Region, and the Rideau Canal pathway, which transforms from a skating rink to a cycling route each spring, is one of the most scenic urban rides in Canada.
The Ottawa Cycling Plan also continues to add protected lanes downtown. Check the City of Ottawa's cycling map for new routes added since last year.
Get your helmet sorted, pump up your tires, and get ready. Spring in Ottawa hits different when you're on two wheels.
Source: CBC Ottawa
