Tuesday, May 03, 2011

Collapsible Helmet?

As I wonder around our fair city, on my heavy duty tough guy 400 lb Bikeshare bike, I usually stick to the sidewalks.

Technically? This is not actually illegal in (most parts) of D.C., I learned tonight, after a quick spin around the Interwebs, spurred on by some of you who questioned the legality of such an activity. (And by the way, thanks for the welcome back from all peeps who have NOT forgotten me after all!)

But even though it's not illegal doesn't make it smart. Most of the time.

Here's my rationalization:
a) Most pedestrians are moving faster--way faster--than I am.
2) I'm only going a short distance.
iii) I have no helmet.
Or, more correctly, I have no helmet actually WITH me when I need one.

Take last Saturday, for instance. We strolled about a mile down the hill from our cozy nest to this lovely restaurant for brunch in Cleveland Park. I had some shopping to do afterwards down in Dupont Circle, about 3 miles or a few Metro stops away. But it was such a gorgeous day, I couldn't bring myself to head into the bowels of the earth to ride the Metro. So I hopped on a handy Bikeshare, and boddabing, Bob's your uncle.


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OK, so technically? I do have a helmet, but I don't want to have to schlep it everywhere just in case I need it.

So, as I was swimming tonight (swimming, yes!) I started thinking. "What I need," I thought, "is a helmet that I can fit into my backpack. Or my purse. If I carried a purse. Which I don't. I need a smaller, more compact helmet. Like a folding helmet. Or, even better, a collapsible helmet!"

For some reason, this made total sense to me at the time.

Now, however, in the comfort of my bed, several hours later, I'm sensing there just might be a flaw in my thinking.

I just bet you there's a market for this.

23 comments:

Citizen Josh said...

"Necessity is the mother of invention." -someone

Check out this folding bike helmet and this one as well.

Nora said...

So when I read the previous post a couple days ago (very quickly while trying to catch some me time while pleasing everyone else), my first thought was, "I wonder if she takes her helmet with her."

They do it here, after the success of Paris, and I've always thought it was a great idea, except I'd a) have to live in London and b) have to carry my helmet around all the time because I wouldn't be stupid enough to try London streets without one! Stay safe!

Unknown said...

I missed you! Also, do you think helmet share is a solution? Um, no.

David said...

Swimming? Biking? Good lord. She might even run again some day.

Rachael Seda said...

I'm thinking that's a pretty awesome idea. Even for someone who rides a motorcycle! I like where your head is at...someone just might steal your idea now!

That Bald Chick said...

I am certain someone would buy the collapsible helmet off of QVC. LOL. Found your site looking for blogs on running, as I want to start training for a 5K. Will be reading more!

Juzo said...

The pics almost look like a concept bike. I guess I have never seen one like that before, very cool though.

Qama said...
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Anonymous said...

It's funny I've always hated helmets...but I suppose I should buckle down and at least THINK about getting one.
I just finished my first marathon so now I'm thinking about doing a triathlon as my next goal (in the future!. Thanks for the inspiration!

Green Mountain Realty said...

Great stuff, so glad I found this site today, I will be back often, thank you.

seb said...

Great Post. We used the bike share program in London. Traffic was a bit scary but the parks were great.

GPS Watches

Anne said...

It's so good to see you back to blogging. I've missed you!!! (And thanks for the encouragement over at my blog. You're so right about the sheets....)

peter said...

Post! I always relied on your brilliance. FB is so shallow.

Anonymous said...
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aisha said...
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Drop In Pools said...

I'm thinking that's a pretty awesome idea. Even for someone who rides a motorcycle! I like where your head is at...someone just might steal your idea now!

Motorbike Helmets said...
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Anonymous said...

GREAT blog. Love your posts!

terri said...

Yeah, but not sure how you could make it safe. You're not even supposed to re-wear a helmet that has been in an accident.

Run-Dream-Achieve said...

Safety first! A helmet is very important. Always bring your helmet when you go biking.

Carilyn said...

I have to admit that I go without a helmet sometimes. I know that's like admitting I run with scissors (or worse), but I'm with you. It's not always practical to have the helmet around. If you come up with a collapsible helmet, you'll be rich!

Anonymous said...

Can't wait for said helmet to collapse as your head makes contact the with the side of a car....

block paving hornchurch said...
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