Which helmet is safest for an electric bike?
Written by: Hanna Stevens | October 12, 2025 | Reading time: 4 minutes
When riding an electric bike, the higher speeds and dense traffic completely change the riding experience. In this context, a good helmet is not just an accessory, but a real safety feature. In this article, we explain which type of helmet you should choose for your safety.
More about the author: Hanna Stevens
Hanna is an avid cyclist who loves exploring new routes and sharing her experiences to inspire others to get on their bikes more often.
Is a helmet mandatory on an electric bike?
It depends on the type of bike.
| Type of bike | Max. speed | Mandatory helmet? And standard? |
|---|---|---|
| Classic electric bike | Up to 25 km/h | Not mandatory, but recommended. EN1078 |
| Speed pedelec | Up to 45 km/h | Yes, mandatory. NTA 8776 |
In Belgium and the Netherlands, helmets are not compulsory for conventional electric bikes (up to 25 km/h). Yet experts strongly recommend it: even at low speeds, a helmet considerably reduces the risk of serious head injury.
For speed pedelecs, considered as mopeds, helmets are compulsory. It must comply with the NTA 8776 standard, which offers enhanced protection, particularly for the temples and back of the head, and is specially designed for higher speeds.
What's the safest helmet for an electric bike?
Safety depends on three things:
- The certification standard: an EN1078-certified helmet is the minimum requirement for a standard electric bike. For a speed pedelec, NTA 8776 is mandatory.
- Fit: a helmet should hug the head without constricting or moving.
- Additional safety technologies: such as MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System), which reduces rotational forces in the event of a fall.
What is MIPS and why is it important?
MIPS is a thin layer inside the helmet that can move independently of the outer shell on impact. This mobility attenuates the rotational forces that can affect the brain.
Tests show that helmets equipped with MIPS offer up to 30% more protection against brain damage than standard helmets.
Popular and safe MIPS helmets
- Giro Camden MIPS: specially designed for speed pedelecs
- Abus Pedelec 2.0 MIPS: with reinforced neck protection and integrated visor
- Lazer CityZen Kineticore: double layer of protection and excellent ventilation
- Bern Hudson MIPS: popular in urban environments, with magnetic closure
At Upway, you'll also find refurbished helmets from top brands like Bern and Fend, combining style and safety.
What to look out for when choosing an e-bike helmet?
- Fit and comfort: it must be tight without compressing, with a good adjustment system.
- Ventilation: even with moderate effort, good ventilation is essential, especially in summer.
- Weight: a lightweight helmet (300-400 g) prevents neck pain on long journeys.
- Safety standard: EN1078 minimum, NTA 8776 for speed pedelecs.
- Visibility: choose a helmet with reflective elements or, even better, integrated lighting.
Why wearing an electric bicycle helmet is a smart choice
Even without obligation, wearing a helmet is a wise decision. Studies, including those carried out by the Fietsersbond, show that wearing a helmet reduces the risk of serious head injury by 60%, and brain damage by 70%.
As e-bikes are faster and heavier than conventional bicycles, falls have a greater impact. A well-fitting helmet, ideally equipped with MIPS, is therefore not a luxury, but a real necessity.
Conclusion
For electric bikes up to 25 km/h, helmets are not mandatory, but are strongly recommended. For a speed pedelec up to 45 km/h, a NTA 8776 helmet is mandatory.
Choose a model with MIPS or equivalent technology, good ventilation, a perfect fit and good visibility. So you can ride safely and comfortably, whether in town or over longer distances.
Key findings
1. Helmets are mandatory for speed pedelecs (NTA 8776 standard) but only recommended for classic electric bikes.
2. A safe helmet must comply with a standard (EN 1078 or NTA 8776), fit well and be comfortable.
3. Urban, road and MTB models offer different levels of protection depending on use.