Media Tips and Case Studies
Standards for Bicycles and Helmets Protect Olympic and Recreational Cyclists

The cycling events at the Beijing 2008 Summer Olympics will be held from August 9 to August 23, classified by four categories: track, road, mountain bike, and BMX. With 18 sets of medals to be awarded, these events are highly popular, thanks in part to the standards that make cycling a safe and fun pastime for athletes and non-athletes alike.

ASTM International, a member and audited designator of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), has developed several American National Standards for bicycle safety. One such standard, ASTM F2043-00, Standard Classification for Bicycle Usage, defines terms used within the bicycle industry and specifies bike usage conditions, specifically for regular paved surfaces where the tires do not lose ground contact when going downhill in a speed over 25 miles per hour.

Both professional and recreational cyclists are strongly advised to wear helmets for every bike ride, no matter the distance. ASTM F1446, Standard Test Methods for Equipment and Procedure Used in Evaluating the Performance Characteristics of Protective Headgear, tests the equipment under specified environmental conditions; however, it is up to the users of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices. ASTM F1447-06, Standard Specification for Helmets used in Recreational Bicycling or Roller Skating, addresses performance requirements for helmets while also highlighting the benefits of lightweight construction and ventilation.

2008 marks the debut of BMX cycling as an Olympic event. ASTM F2032-06, Standard Specification for Helmets Used for BMX Cycling, provides guidelines for helmets that offer impact protection over a greater area of the head, as BMX carries a higher risk of injury than other forms of cycling.

As fans tune in to watch their favorite athletes in action, standards for bicycles and helmets will continue to protect cyclists around the world, from the opening to the closing ceremony and beyond.

To learn more about the U.S. Cycling Team, visit www.usacycling.org.