We all see it every now and then, people riding the trails without helmets and the funny thing is that it is not always people on the Wal-Mart bikes either.
As trail builders were are very protective of the trails that we create, we try to promote safety and enjoyment of an inherently dangerous sport. But when riders are not beingresponsible it is in our best interest to inform them about the error of their ways.
Of course this is normally done in a polite way, but sometimes these rule breakers feel that we are impinging on their social liberties as they have cursed and called us communists. (It has actually happened.) I know that sometimes you may forget your helmet at home, it has happened to several of us before, but as a matter of protective self interest we have chosen not to ride the trails.
Of course there are those that say: “Hey, I am only riding the fire road why should I wear a helmet.” Well one of the worst accidents that I have heard about was on a fire road, a severe concussion and other injuries. Had this person not of been wearing a helmet there would have been brains all over the trail. Mmm BRAINS! The fact of the matter is that Mountain Biking or for our purposes Trail Riding, is a sport with and inherent risk of injury, why tempt fate by not having a helmet on?
When you are out enjoying the trails please be responsible and understand it takes a whole community of volunteers and riders to keep a trail system running.
Please be considerate and ride with a helmet.