There’s a new trend in modding bike helmets to give the headgear a Mohawk. Craftzine has a great post on this activity. We applaud the individuality. We don’t mean to be nervous nellies either, but before you attach a ridge of spikes to your helmet, you should think about a few guidelines.
A few bodies including the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and SNELL regulate helmets. Manufacturers follow these guidelines for safety. Modifications can potentially change a helmet so it won’t perform its function of protecting your head in the unfortunate event of a crash.
If you attach fabric or materials without changing the structure of the helmet, then go for it. We’re certainly not one to stand in the way of individuality and creativity. But don’t do anything that could reduce the effectiveness of the helmet.
Don’t drill holes in order to fasten materials or objects. Even if you use the existing air vents in a helmet, you could change the way the helmet works just because material might obstruct where your head hits or shock is absorbed by the helmet.
If you race, keep your race helmet clean. Check with race organizers before you show up with a Mohawk or other modification to the helmet. Last fall the USA Cycling (USAC) Board of Trustees threatened to ban helmet the use of cameras in races when they revised their rules. A helmet cam, or other objects and materials attached to helmets, can alter the way your helmet protects you.
via [Craftzine]