Bike Life Blog Category: Safety

Helmet care and replacement

Your helmet is the most important piece of cycling kit you own. It’s not just a box to tick for safety, it’s frontline protection between your head any hard immovable object your head may hit. Like rock climbers tend their ropes and skydivers inspect and safely pack their chutes – your helmet needs some care and attention. And they don’t last forever.

At Bicycle Queensland, we recommend replacing your helmet every three years – or sooner if it’s been involved in a crash, even a minor one. That may surprise you if your helmet still looks perfectly fine, but here’s why it matters.

Isn’t three years too soon?

Every ride takes a little toll on your helmet. Sun exposure, sweat, bumps, drops from your handlebar and even being tossed into a gear bag all slowly degrade the foam and plastic that absorb impact. Helmet manufacturers also advise not leaving a bike helmet in a car that is over 30 degrees. Over time, those materials lose their ability to protect you as effectively.

Even small knocks like dropping your helmet on the ground or knocking it against a wall can cause unseen fractures in the protective foam. You may not spot the damage, but it could compromise the helmet’s ability to reduce the severity of an impact in a crash.

And if you’ve had an incident where your head made contact with the ground or a solid surface? That helmet has done its job and it’s time to retire it immediately. It only takes one impact to weaken a helmet. If you’re not sure about the condition of your helmet, tip it over so the top faces the ground. Squeeze it on the longitudinal axis and see if any cracks appear. Do the same on the latitudinal axis. If there are cracks – it is time for a new helmet. Still not sure? Visit your local bike store for their advice.

Choosing Your Next Helmet

When it’s time for a new lid, don’t just grab the first one that looks good. Fit and function matter far more than colour or style. A properly fitted helmet will not only keep you safe but also feel more stable on long rides.

Consider the type of riding you are doing and the helmet you need. The sleekest, most ventilated helmets are great for road riding. But helmets with visors might be preferable for those who don’t ride in such an aggressive position. Mountain bike helmets often offer more protection around the temples and back of the head, and there are light full-face helmets that suit e-scooter and mountain bike use.

Here’s a step‑by‑step guide to getting the right fit:

  • Your helmet should sit level on your head, covering the middle of your forehead – not tipped back like a sun hat.
  • A quick check: there should be two fingers’ width between your eyebrows and the bottom of the helmet.
  • The helmet should feel snug and stable even before you fasten the straps. Most helmets will come in three sizes. One size fits most is typically best avoided.
  • Give your head a gentle shake – the helmet shouldn’t rock forward, back or sideways.
  • Most modern helmets have a rear dial or retention system. Adjust it so it rests comfortably just below the bump at the back of your skull (the occipital bone).
  • Buckle up and open your mouth wide, as if you’re screaming about the joy of bike riding. The helmet should gently press down on your head due to pressure from the strap
  • The Y‑shaped strap splitters should sit about 1 cm below each ear – these aid fore-aft stability in the event of a crash.
  • If you ride with sunglasses or prescription lenses, check that the helmet straps or retention system don’t interfere with your eyewear arms.
  • Don’t wear a regular hat under your helmet — it can affect fit and safety, especially a baseball cap. A thin cycling cap is fine. Sunbrims are a great addition for more sun protection – or an SPF rated BQ Neck Gaitor!

Features to look for

In Australia, bicycle helmets need to meet AS/NZS 2063 or an equivalent international standard, such as EN 1078 or CPSC 16.

  • Ventilation: More vents mean better airflow for hot Queensland rides.
  • MIPS or similar tech: rotational impact protection can help reduce the severity of an impact.
  • Lightweight construction: Makes long rides more comfortable – the microshell coverage over the foam also assists with durability from small bumps.
  • High‑visibility colours: Not essential, but a bright helmet can make you more noticeable on the road. That includes white!
  • A small, removable visor: not essential but it helps keep the sun out of your eyes.

Caring for Your Helmet

A little care goes a long way in extending your helmet’s life. In general, you should look after your helmet like it may save your life one day.

  • Store it in a cool, dry place out of direct sun.
  • Avoid leaving it in a hot car as heat can warp the shell and weaken the foam.
  • Clean it with mild soap and water, not harsh chemicals.
  • Inspect it regularly for cracks or dents – replace it if it has any damage
  • If you’re lucky to travel, take your helmet as carry on to avoid damage
  • Don’t attach anything to your helmet

Your Head is Worth It

A helmet isn’t just another piece of cycling kit. it’s your insurance policy against serious head injury. Replacing your helmet every three years (or after any crash) might feel cautious, but your safety is worth far more than the cost of a new one.

So next time you’re wondering whether your helmet is still good enough, remember our simple rule: if you’re not sure, don’t risk it – every ride is better when you know your head is properly protected.

BQ Members can save $10 on PieProof helmets (RRP $109.95) – these helmets have additional safety features to protect the wearer from magpie strikes.

Safety tips for mass participation rides

Bicycle Queensland start of the 2021 Downer Brisbane to Gold Coast Cycle Challenge, raising funds for 'Stronger for Longer', dedicated to supporting the most promising prostate cancer research by QUT researchers who are developing targeted therapies that actively seek out cancer proteins and kill the harmful cells.

Are you signed up to a big ride soon? Whether it’s the Ipswich Scenic 100, the Mater Brisbane to Gold Coast Cycle for Cancer, MS QLD Brissie to the Bay or another event – there are a few tips for safe riding in such a large bunch. Many elements will crossover with knowledge from riding in a group, but some basic skills have greater importance, and some elements are differnt to a group ride – like having course marshals!

bq events calendar

Be predictable

In a mass participation ride, being predictable is one of the most important things you can do for your own safety and the safety of others. Avoid any sudden or erratic movements – don’t brake hard or swerve without warning. Signal clearly with hand gestures and verbal cues when turning, stopping, or changing position. Hold a steady line and be mindful of the riders around you, especially in bunches or at aid stations where things can get congested. Be aware that others will be doing this too, so listen for any calls coming from riders ahead, so you can plan your response and pass the message to those behind.

Obey all event marshals and event officials

Think of marshals and officials as your safety net for the day. Whether they’re managing intersections, guiding the route, or responding to incidents, they’re there to help things run smoothly and safely. Always follow their directions, even if they differ from road signage or your GPS. Trust that they have up-to-date information on hazards, detours, or timing changes, and are looking out for every participant’s wellbeing. Some rides move from closed roads to open roads after the opening sections, so be mindful of following all standard road safety directions, or those from marshals, police or event officials. And remember, many of these people are volunteers – so be nice!

Service your bike before the event

Your bike needs to be as ready as you are. Schedule a pre-event check-up with a qualified bike mechanic well in advance, especially if you’ve had your bike in storage or haven’t ridden it much. Prioritise the basics: brakes, gears, tyres, drivetrain, and steering. A mechanical issue mid-ride can ruin your day – or worse, cause a crash. Doing this a week or more ahead allows time for parts to be ordered or repairs to be completed without last-minute stress.

Bike store locator

Ride within your skill level

It’s great to have goals, but safety comes first. If you aren’t sure about completing any route you have signed up for, remember to do some training rides in preparation! Slowly build your endurance not just by doing longer rides on the weekend, but doing a couple more rides, even short ones, in the week as well. On the day, pace yourself and ride in a way that you can always stay in control. If you’re descending, cornering, or riding in a group, make decisions based on what you know you can handle confidently – not what others around you are doing.

Use daytime running lights

Even if you’re riding during daylight hours, front and rear bike lights can make a big difference in how soon others—drivers, other riders, even pedestrians—see you. On mixed-traffic routes or shared paths, this added visibility can prevent close calls. Run them on a steady or flashing mode depending on your preference, and make it part of your pre-ride checklist to ensure they’re charged and mounted securely. This is best practice on all rides – not just on event day.

BQ Members can save on lights from knog and See.Sense – see all our Member Rewards.

Look ahead, not down

Staring at your front wheel won’t help you avoid the rider who slows suddenly or the pothole up ahead. Keep your head up and eyes scanning well in front of you to read the terrain, traffic, and rider behaviour. This also gives you more time to make safe, confident decisions, and reduces the impact of your actions on those around you. The more you anticipate, the smoother and safer your ride will be.

Be a courteous rider

A friendly and respectful attitude goes a long way in mass rides. Use clear voice signals like “passing on your right,” “slowing,” or “stopping,” and always give others enough room. Alert others to hazards like potholes, debris, or parked cars by pointing or calling out.

If you stop to have a snack or check your tyres or wait for a friend, please get yourself and your bike all the way off the road surface. The bike riders behind you in the event deserve all the available space on the road, so please don’t narrow the course in any way.

Respect different riding speeds, skill levels, and bikes – whether someone’s on a high-end road bike or a borrowed hybrid, we’re all there for a shared experience. Good vibes make great rides.

Will your ride be covered? Bicycle Queensland membership includes public liability and personal accident insurance, and supports BQ’s advocacy – you can find out more here.

Practical bike security tips

We recommend locking your bike whenever you aren't riding it.

Bike theft is an unfortunate reality, but the good news is, a few smart habits and equipment choices can drastically reduce your risk. Whether you’re locking your bike up at a café, leaving your ride at a train station, securing it at home or just ducking into the shops, here’s how to keep your bike safe and increase your chances of recovery if the worst happens.

Prove that your bike, is your bike

If your bike is ever stolen and later recovered, you’ll need to prove ownership. While we often have the best intentions of writing down the bike’s unique serial number and keeping the receipt – best practice is actually doing it. Set yourself up now with:

  • Serial number – This is typically found underneath the bottom bracket (under the pedals). Write it down and store it somewhere safe – digitally is best.
  • Photos, photos, photos – Take clear shots of the entire bike, the serial number, any unique features, and ideally one of you with the bike (timestamped, if possible).
  • Proof of purchase – Keep your receipt, either printed or digital. It’s essential if you’re the original owner.
Get a photo of your bike when new, and make sure you take a photo of the serial number and receipt as well.

Lock it or lose it

Carrying a lock might be annoying but losing your bike is much worse. There are a range of locks available that mean even carrying something small for ducking into a store isn’t impossible. While a tiny luggage lock won’t suit a commuter, they’re a great choice for a café stop or for bikepackers ducking into a shop for some discount mass-produced carrot cake. Ottolock have some great options as well.

  • Always lock your bike when unattended – Even for short stops.
  • Use the frame and a solid object – Make sure you’re locking the frame (not just a wheel) to something immovable. Best practice is to look your wheels as well.
  • Limit movement – Locking a bike in a way that allows it to rattle or shift can lead to accidental damage, or even malicious damaged. More room to move can make it easier for thieves to prise a lock open.
  • Match the lock to the risk – Consider your bike’s value, where you’re locking it, how long it’ll be unattended, and how often it’s parked there. Higher risk = higher security lock.
  • Use two locks – Especially in high-theft areas, using a second lock to secure wheels or components can act as an extra deterrent.
We recommend locking your bike whenever you aren’t riding it.

Remove temptation

  • Take your accessories with you – Don’t leave lights, GPS units, or other removable gear behind. For a quick café stop, grab your bike computer. For longer-term parking (like at a train station), remove everything.
  • E-bike owners – If your battery detaches easily, consider removing it – yes, even if it’s keyed in.
  • Wear a disguise – some riders tape over any branding or even wrap their frame to make their lovely bike look a bit average! This may be a good option for those hoping to make their bike a little more incognito.

Think ahead: extra layers of security

  • Tag your bike – Hidden tracking tags or coded stickers can help with recovery if your bike goes missing. Place them in discreet locations on the frame or components. This means you can track your bike on your smart phone.
  • Consider an alarm – Motion-activated alarms are small, inexpensive, and loud enough to draw attention or scare off opportunists. Products exist that combine a tracker and an audible alarm that you set via your phone – the Knog Scout is one example, and BQ Members can save 11% on purchase (grab your discount code in the member portal). Bosch-equipped e-bikes can also activate an alarm via their app.
  • Register your bike – BikeVAULT offers free online registration. Upload your photos and bike details to help prove ownership if it’s found.
  • Insure it – Bicycle Queensland membership includes insurance to protect you while riding, but not theft of your bike. That’s why we’ve partnered with Velosure to offer 10% off bike theft insurance for BQ members. You can access this directly via the member portal.

Bike security is all about layers – small steps that together make a big difference. From locking smarter to registering and insuring your ride, you’re not just protecting your investment you are also protecting your freedom to ride!

BQ Tests: PieProof Bike Helmet

Avoiding being swooped by magpies is an annual challenge for bike riders, walkers and e-scooter riders. There are numerous ways that people try to avoid getting swooped by magpies, and a couple of them even work! At Bicycle Queensland, we will always suggest that if your route is dangerous for any reason, the first choice for a rapid change is to see if you can change the route you take – and this works for magpie swooping season as well. That won’t always be possible, and there are a number of products available that claim to deter magpies from swooping.

meet pieproof helmets

PieProof helmets are an Australian company, with a helmet that does not intend to directly prevent a magpie from swooping you. Instead, it aims to make sure you don’t get injured. Magpie injuries can involve a small cut to your ear – but the larger danger is losing focus on riding your bike. The PieProof helmet has lightweight padded mesh ear covers, to protect your ears from the beak of a magpie. The vents have a fine mesh that prevent a magpie holding onto your helmet – and handily they keep bugs out as well. The removable visor also adds some more protection for your eyes.

What really stands out is how these added features aren’t gimmicks on a basic helmet – it’s a high quality helmet regardless. From a full coverage in-mould shell, through to an integrated rechargeable rear light, three shell sizes (in either black or white), with a fully adjustable retention system and high quality straps and buckles. All for about $110.

In use

Fitting the helmet was no problem, with a true to size fit and a very comfortable finish thanks to good pad coverage inside. Depending on your choice of eyewear, you may find the arms of sunglasses foul on the ear covers, but putting them on the inside of the ear covers proved to be the best option.

There was a concern that the ear covers may reduce hearing when riding, but the opposite was almost true. They are not a form fitting ear cover as they are not pushed firmly over your ears like noise cancelling headphones. They did reduce wind noise a little, but their main bonus is protection from an angry magpie – and the sun.

With very few magpies on my regular rides, I did need to venture a little further to coax some swooping. What the PieProof helmet will not change is the initial shock of when a magpie swoops you – but your chance of getting injured from the magpie strike is near zero.

For $109.95 including delivery, the PieProof helmets are a high quality helmet with a size range to suit many riders. While it won’t deter a magpie from swooping, it is a well-made helmet with smart design for year-round use, with some added features to call on in swooping season.

From: PieProof Stockists

BQ Members can save $10 on their own PieProof helmet – grab the discount code in the BQ Portal.

Try the e-cargo bike revolution with Lug+Carrie

You would be hard pressed to miss the increase in e-cargo bikes on the streets in many Australian capitals – and Queensland is no different to other states. Early mornings and afternoons see bike paths and back roads become essential links as parents tote one, two or even three kids to and from daycare or school drop offs.

The longer wheelbases and higher cargo carrying capacity of an electric cargo bike isn’t just handy for navigating the school run. You can do a full shop, carry your partner to Friday drinks, or even load up with tools to head to a friend’s house, to rescue them from their DIY project.

While electric cargo bikes have been available for a while, their recent explosion has been assisted by more manufacturers developing their own e-cargo line, and some stores specialising in e-bikes, like Electric Bikes Brisbane or Lug+Carrie. What has made a really big difference is the hire, or subscription service that Lug+Carrie also offer for the Brisbane area, alongside Melbourne and Sydney.

Via Lug+Carrie, you can rent your e-bike, or e-cargo bike, on a month-by-month basis, And as long as you’re in their 20km operational zone, this includes on-site servicing, free delivery and pick up at the start and finish of your subscription, and free delivery and pick up if your bike needs to go into their workshop for repair or parts. This covers from Wynnum to Camp Mountain, or Brendale to Calamvale.

Lug+Carrie stock a variety of Tern bicycles, including the popular GSD, which can be equipped with two seats on the back, along with a rack on the front. In-fact, many of the bikes have a range of accessories that Lug+Carrie supply, and you can swap them out as your needs change. As well as offering the monthly subscription, Lug+Carrie have lease to buy options as well as both new and refurbished e-bikes for sale. You can check them all out and test ride them in their Woolloongabba store. 

On a recent Lug+Carrie Community Ride, we caught up with Sophie – who has been a Lug+Carrie subscriber for two years with her blue Tern GSD.

‘I already had an e-cargo bike that I had bought, but it just wasn’t as functional and kept falling apart. I wanted something that could be a bit more reliable.’

Sophie visited Lug+Carrie in Woolloongabba, near where she lives, to look at at Tern models they had – she ended up their 15th customer, right as their Brisbane store opened. ‘Their targeted demographics Instagram ads got me: women with kids, who hate their car!’

‘Since then, I have been doing school drop offs then into the city for work – and then back again.’

There are e-cargo bikes on the market from as low as around $3000, but for a quality model like the Tern GSD Sophie has, with the accessories and 200kg load limit, could run over $9000 – which can be off-putting for someone trying to see if an e-cargo bike is for them. And that’s why Lug+Carrie’s subscription model is such a great fit, and it worked for Sophie.

‘The subscription is a more affordable way to get an amazing bike. I wouldn’t have been able to buy it outright and I wasn’t sure if I would love it. But within two weeks I knew “this is me for life,” and I love it.’

While we all often focus on the bike – for Sophie the real benefit has come from being able to customise the accessories in her subscription as her needs change – or as her daughter grows.

‘I had the Storm Shield when my daughter was younger, and as she got a bit older I switched it out to the Captain’s Chair. I called Lug+Carrie, went in and they swapped it over and re-priced it. It was even a little bit cheaper. It also means I can fit adults on the back now too.’

Just like leasing the bike reduces the upfront cost, given these accessories cost around $5 a week to hire, it’s far less than the several hundred they cost to buy outright.

Perhaps one of the best changes that Sophie told us about was her changed perceptions of what she can use her e-cargo bike for. She already uses it every day to get around, do the shopping, get to work and to get her daughter to and from school – but that’s not the limit.

‘I do partake in the e-cargo bike Olympics, for what I can fit on it. I haven’t taken it to Bunnings yet, but I am keen… I have taken a very large plant on it and I do all my grocery shopping on it as well.’

We often hear that riders getting around on an e-cargo bike, in regular clothes doing regular things, can change the perception of bike riders on the road and on paths. And Sophie has said she is often asked about her bike, with men, women and families stopping to ask her where she got it from.

With a powerful Bosch e-bike system, the Tern e-cargo bikes make light work of hauling kids, groceries, love interests – or large pot plants.

‘You don’t have to be a really good cyclist. I had cycled before but I hadn’t for a while. I found the Tern GSD far more comfortable and I feel way more secure. The last bike I had was too high . This is really nice as a step through and being so low. A lot of friends have said they aren’t a good enough cyclist to try one, but you really need to have a go – you’ll love it.

The subscription service means assistance with any issues like flat tyres, worn brakes or gear shifting issues. The Tern bikes are deisgned for use day in, day out, with robust tyres and equipment. But things break – which is why the on-road assistance exists, which Sophie has experienced.

‘Once we were pulling out of school and rode over some glass – so we got a flat. But Al came out and fixed it, it was great! He was there in 5 minutes.’ While this lead time may be longer depending where you are in the Operational Zone, it is part of the service that Lug+Carrie offer – and it removes a lot of perceived issues for some would-be riders.

Sophie was so enthusiastic about her time leasing the Tern GSD from Lug+Carrie – and she is currently contemplating buying out the bike she has been using. And she encourages everyone to try an e-cargo bike for themselves.

‘Just try it for a couple of weeks, you’ll notice the difference. I had to work somewhere that was about 50km away and needed to take a month off from cycling. I was noticeably depressed but when I went back to cycling again I was happy again. So give it a go.’

If you want to know more about Lug+Carrie, visit their website or call them on 1300 766 552. Bicycle Queensland members save 50% on an 8-week subscription through Lug+Carrie. Don’t forget to call your local bikeshop about e-cargo bikes as well – you can find Bicycle Queensland’s partner stores on our Store Finder.

Find out more about Bicycle Queensland membership: insurance, advocacy and member discounts

Common cycling myths debunked

There is a misconception that cyclists and motorists are enemies on the road. In reality, we share a common goal to get from point A to point B. With more drivers learning to share the road, it’s important to address common cycling myths that circulate our communities. Cyclists, motorists or pedestrians – we are all people before anything else.

It all comes down to empathy. Reacting with an emotional response is not always the most effective way to respond. It’s natural to become frustrated at close calls, but when we focus on the core concerns, people have a greater ability to shift negative emotions in a productive direction. I’m not saying that we should excuse anyone that compromises a bicycle rider’s life, but it would go a long way if we could have a shared voice, seeing things from a shared perspective, and using this to push for safer roads for everyone.

To help establish a shared voice, Bicycle Queensland is bringing clarity common cycling myths some people hold about bicycle riders. We can encourage the healthy war between those that live North and South of the river, or those that follow the Maroon’s or the Blue’s, but we shouldn’t accept wars between different road users because, at the end of the day, we all have to share the roads.

Bicycle riders slow down traffic

What slows down traffic is traffic. Peak hour traffic on arterial roads in Brisbane travels at an average speed of 35 km/h. On Council roads, the average speed is 26 km/h, which is equal to the speed of a fit bicycle commuter.

Riders get a free ride because they don’t pay rego

Myth. The significant costs to taxpayers of a registration scheme would far outweigh the limited benefits. Evidence suggests that a registration scheme would stop the rise of active transport and do little to improve road safety. Council rates and federal taxes, such as Australia’s Goods and Services Tax, are the main sources of revenue for road infrastructure – not motor vehicle registration fees. Notably, more than 80% of cyclists already pay car registration. Above all else, when bicycle riders take to the paths or streets, they reduce the impact of motor vehicles on road infrastructure and save the community $0.60 for each kilometre they ride instead of driving and they are a far more sustainable mode of transport.

Bicycle riders don’t have to follow the rules

This is false. All bicycle riders have the same rights and responsibilities as vehicle drivers. Some additional rules allow bicycle riders to make hook turns at intersections and cross pedestrian crossings if it is safe to do so. Fines apply to riders that break the rules and all riders must giveaway to pedestrians.

Bikes shouldn’t be on the road if there is a designated off-road bike path

Bicycle riders can choose whether to ride in a bicycle lane where one is provided. However, bicycles cannot ride on a bike lane on the opposite side of the road travelling into oncoming traffic. Cars can use special-purpose lanes (bicycle lane) if they are trying to avoid an obstruction, obey other traffic signals or the vehicle is making a permitted manoeuvre such as, overtaking to the left of a vehicle that is turning right. This is okay for up to 50m in a bicycle lane or 100m in any other special-purpose lane.

Bicycles can’t ride on the footpath

Myth. In Queensland, bicycle riders can use any footpath (unless otherwise signed) if they keep to a safe speed, sound their intention, follow bicycle etiquette, and giveaway to all pedestrians.

Bicycle riders can’t ride in big groups

Myth. If riders are no more than two abreast and up to 1.5m apart, there is no limit to the number of riders behind each other. Evidence would suggest that it is safer to ride in a group as this increases the visibility and decreases the chance of being involved in a crash. It is, however, important to be conscious of other road users and be clear with your intentions in busy urban environments.

Riders can’t overtake on the left

Myth. Bicycle riders can pass on the left unless a vehicle is turning left and indicating. In the case of a heavy or long vehicle, we advise you to stay out of the vehicle’s blind spots. If you can’t see the truck’s mirrors, they can’t see you.

Bike riders don’t need lights at night

Myth. It is a legal requirement that all bicycles be fitted with a front (white) and rear light (red) while riding in low light environments. Bikes also need a red rear reflector that is visible up to 50m away. Watch our ‘What to wear’ video to find out more.

Bicycle riders don’t have to give their details if they’re involved in a crash

Myth. Details must be collected from anyone involved in an accident. If someone is injured or in immediate danger, call 000, but once everyone is safe, collect the details of all involved including witnesses. If you believe property damaged in the accident exceeds $2500, call the police to the scene.

Did we debunk any common cycling myths for you?