A recall for GLX 501C motorcycle helmets made by Galaxy Helmets in Irwindale, Calif., has been issued by the U.S. Highway Traffic Safety Administration. A small number of extra large sized Galaxy helmets failed to meet government impact standards and might not adequately protect motorcycle riders in the event of a crash.

NHTSA and safety advocates such as Consumer Reports remind two-wheeled riders of the importance of using proper-fitting motorcycle helmets. According to the safety agency, motorcyclists were five times more likely to be injured based on miles traveled in 2009. (And as warmer weather bring out more cyclists and riders, NHTSA's Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month campaign is emphasizing to all motorists the importance of sharing the road.)

In the Consumer Reports motorcycle buying guide, our safety experts recommend motorcycle riders should use a full-face designed helmet that's approved by the Department of Transportation. Motorcycle helmets should fit snugly and be replaced after two to four years because the material degrades.

According to NHTSA, Galaxy Helmets will notify helmet owners affected by today's safety recall and will bring the flawed GLX 501C helmets into safety compliance, free of charge. However, Galaxy has not provided when the notification to its customers or repair process to its helmets will begin.

Consumers can contact Galaxy Helmets at 626-359-0900 or the NHTSA website (www.SaferCar.gov) for more information.

Source:
Recall: Galaxy GLX 501C motorcycle helmets - Impact protection; Campaign ID#: 12E019000 [NHTSA]