A new study says that helmets reduce the risks of serious head injury for cyclists by about 65%.

The Australian statisticians who conducted the study of over 64,000 bicycle riders were looking for answers for the critics of Australia’s compulsory helmet use law. The argument against the law – that helmets discourage potential future riders from cycling – pales next such a safety statistics.

If this new study is accurate, then common sense should prevail, not just for Australia but for every cyclist the world over. Heads are too precious a commodity to risk them unnecessarily, and bike helmets are an easy way to protect them against harm. Nearly 70% less chance of serious harm is definitely worth the inconvenience.

*Scientists have no conclusive evidence as to whether or how the reduction of g-forces during impacts reduces the number or degree of concussions and head injuries. GelDefender products provide supplemental padding as well as cooling and comfort benefits when used with helmets and caps. Participants in activities in which head impacts can occur should always use tested and approved helmets for protection. However, no helmet or supplemental padding can protect the user from all serious head or neck injuries that can result from impacts.