As electric bikes continue to gain popularity in the U.S., thanks to environmental concerns and traffic congestion, their appeal isn't going away anytime soon. E-bikes offer a cleaner, more affordable way to get around compared to cars or motorcycles. Charging an e-bike daily costs approximately $24 per year, which is significantly less than fueling a car. With potential tax incentives from the Biden administration's proposed bill, even more people might consider purchasing e-bikes. However, while buying an e-bike is one thing, riding it safely is another matter entirely.

Safety on the road involves two key aspects: legality and personal protection. We've previously discussed legal regulations for e-bikes and touched upon general safety tips. But there’s one crucial aspect of safety that deserves deeper exploration—helmets!

Do You Really Need a Helmet?

Similar to e-bike regulations, helmet laws vary by state. Many states mandate wearing a helmet when riding a Class 2 e-bike. For those unfamiliar with the classification, here’s a quick refresher:

• Class 1: Pedal-assist systems reaching up to 20 mph.
• Class 2: Throttle-mode e-bikes that can reach up to 20 mph.
• Class 3: Pedal-assist systems reaching up to 28 mph.

Delfast e-bikes fall into the Class 2 category, but riders can push higher speeds in certain areas, such as race tracks, where e-bikes with motors exceeding 750W are permitted. Some states require helmets regardless of the e-bike’s class, including Oklahoma, Texas, Washington, Delaware, New Mexico, New Jersey, Washington D.C., Florida, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania. Other states may have helmet requirements based on the rider’s age, such as California (under 18), Connecticut (under 16), and New York (statewide). Always check your local helmet laws and adhere to them. Even if your area doesn’t legally require a helmet, wearing one is always a smart move—it’s your best line of defense.

What Should You Look for When Choosing a Helmet?

Your helmet needs to be comfortable, safe, and stylish—because aesthetics matter too! Most bike helmets are crafted from polystyrene foam for the inner liner and polycarbonate for the outer shell. This combination makes the helmet lightweight and durable. Some modern helmets come equipped with a dial-fit system for precise adjustments, ensuring a snug fit. Proper sizing is critical—measure your head carefully using a flexible tape measure or string, ensuring it aligns with the largest part of your head just above your eyebrows. Compare your measurement to the helmet’s size chart and always opt for a smaller size if you’re between two sizes.

If you live in a region with warm climates, prioritize helmets with advanced ventilation to keep cool. Off-road enthusiasts should consider full-face helmets for additional protection against debris and jaw support. Helmets with the Multi-Directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) are ideal for riders who frequent rough terrain. MIPS reduces rotational forces during impacts, minimizing the risk of concussions and severe brain injuries.

Can I Use a Regular Bike Helmet for My E-Bike?

For casual rides at Class 2 settings (default power on our TOP 3.0 models), a standard bike helmet is sufficient. However, if you intend to push higher speeds, you’ll need something sturdier, like a motorcycle helmet or one with the MIPS system. Off-road riders will particularly benefit from helmets with MIPS technology, as they provide enhanced protection against rotational forces. No matter your preference, prioritizing safety is non-negotiable. Even short rides warrant wearing a helmet, as accidents can happen anywhere. Delfast e-bikes are designed with safety in mind, but taking extra precautions amplifies your protection exponentially.