The Consumer Council has tested six bicycle helmet models and found all samples had good shock absorption.

The tests also assessed the helmets' effectiveness, their retention systems' strength, ventilation and ease of use.

The council also did tests to determine their impact on the environment and the wearers' health. None of the helmets released significant amounts of volatile organic compounds nor excessive levels of chemical compounds nor azo dyes.

Two samples were found to have thinner padding, making them less comfortable to wear.

There were more than 1,000 road traffic accidents involving bicycles from 2000 to 2007. The council reminds all cyclists wear a helmet whenever riding a bicycle. It also suggests night riders choose brightly coloured helmets and those with light-reflective patterns or flashy LEDs.