What was recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a recall for specific bicycle helmets manufactured and distributed by Todson. The affected products are Concord-branded 360 Degree Rechargeable Light-Up bike helmets. These are not standard, passive helmets; they are specialized safety gear that incorporates active lighting technology to increase rider visibility. While the inclusion of lights is a helpful feature for cyclists riding at dawn, dusk, or night, this particular batch of helmets has been identified as failing to meet critical federal safety requirements regarding structural integrity and fit retention.
The recall targets a very specific configuration of the helmet. Consumers should look for helmets that are size large (L). This size is designed to fit head circumferences ranging from approximately 22.8 inches to 24 inches. The exterior of the recalled helmets is black, featuring a built-in LED lighting system powered by an internal lithium-ion battery. Visually, the helmet includes black straps and a black buckle for fastening. A key identifying feature is a black plastic knob located at the back of the helmet, which users turn to adjust the fit around their head. Additionally, the word "Concord" is printed clearly on the back of the helmet shell, serving as the primary brand marker.
The scope of this recall is defined by these precise physical and branding characteristics. Todson sold these helmets in various retail locations across the United States. The products were available for purchase online and potentially through brick-and-mortar stores that stock cycling equipment. If you own a black Concord helmet with integrated lights, a rear adjustment knob, and it fits a head size within the large range, it is crucial to verify whether your specific unit is part of this recall batch.
This recall was announced on February 26, 2026. The timing is significant for recent purchasers who may have bought these helmets as gifts or for their own use during the winter months, preparing for spring cycling season. Because the hazard relates to fundamental safety standards rather than a manufacturing defect in the lights themselves, the entire line of these specific large-sized Concord helmets with the described features is subject to the remedy.
It is important to note that while the product description highlights the lighting and branding, the core issue lies in the helmet's ability to stay securely in place during an impact. The recall does not mention any other sizes or colors of the Concord 360 Degree helmet being affected, nor does it list other Todson models. The focus remains strictly on the large-sized, black, light-up version with the specific adjustment knob and branding described above. If your helmet matches this detailed description, it falls under the purview of this safety alert.
The hazard, explained
When you are riding a bicycle, your helmet is the most critical piece of safety equipment you have. It acts as a shield between your head and the ground or other objects. For that shield to work properly, it must stay exactly where it is supposed to be: centered over your forehead and temples. The Concord 360 Degree Rechargeable Light-Up bike helmets recalled by Todson fail in this fundamental duty because they do not meet the mandatory safety standards for retention systems and positional stability. In plain terms, this means the helmet may slip, slide, or come completely off your head during a crash, leaving your skull unprotected.
The retention system is the network of straps and buckles that holds the helmet snugly against your head. When this system fails to comply with safety standards, it often means the straps can stretch too much, slip through the buckles without locking securely, or detach entirely under stress. If you are involved in a collision, even at moderate speeds, the force of the impact can easily pull a poorly secured helmet off. Instead of absorbing the blow and protecting your brain, the helmet becomes a loose object that flies away, while your head takes the full force of the impact.
Positional stability refers to the helmet’s ability to stay in the correct place on your head while you move or when forces are applied to it. A helmet with poor positional stability might shift sideways, upward, or backward during a fall. This is particularly dangerous because different parts of the helmet are designed to protect different areas of your brain. If the helmet shifts out of position, critical areas like the back of your head (which controls balance and coordination) or the sides of your head may be left exposed. The recalled helmets have a black exterior with a built-in LED lighting system and a black plastic knob for adjustment, but this design does not compensate for the underlying failure in how the helmet stays put.
Why does this matter? Head injuries are rarely just about bruises. A fall that should result in a minor scrape can become life-threatening if the helmet fails to stay on. Without proper retention and stability, the risk of serious injury or death increases significantly because your brain is not cushioned effectively. The CPSC has flagged this specific violation because it undermines the very purpose of wearing a helmet in the first place. It is not enough for a helmet to look sturdy; it must physically remain in place when you need it most.
This issue is not about the lights or the battery life, which are nice features but secondary to safety. The core problem is mechanical: the helmet cannot reliably protect you because it cannot reliably stay on your head. In a crash, those split seconds matter. If the helmet slips off before impact or slides away during impact, you lose the protection that could prevent traumatic brain injury, concussions, or fatal outcomes. That is why this recall is issued with such urgency, and why immediate action is required to ensure your safety.
Who is most at risk
The primary group at risk from this recall consists of individuals who own or regularly wear the Concord-branded 360 Degree Rechargeable Light-Up bicycle helmets, specifically those in the large (L) size. Because the helmet is designed to fit a head circumference of approximately 22.8 to 24 inches, it is most commonly worn by older children, teenagers, and adults with larger head sizes. While the product itself is marketed toward recreational cyclists who value the convenience of integrated LED lighting for visibility, the safety defect fundamentally undermines the protective function of the gear for anyone using it on a bike. The risk is not limited to professional athletes; it extends to casual riders, commuters, and parents who may have purchased these helmets for family use, assuming they meet federal safety standards.
The specific nature of the hazard—failure of the retention system and positional stability—makes this defect particularly dangerous for younger users and inexperienced riders. Children and adolescents are often still developing their balance and reaction times on a bicycle. In the event of a fall or collision, a helmet that shifts out of position can leave critical areas of the skull exposed. The retention system is what keeps the helmet securely anchored to the head during impact. If this system fails, the helmet may slide off or tilt upward at the moment of impact, rendering it useless. For a child, whose skull is still developing and who may not be able to accurately adjust the fit themselves, this misalignment poses a severe threat. The lack of reported incidents to date does not diminish the potential severity; it simply means a catastrophic event has not yet been documented in the official record.
Elderly cyclists also face heightened vulnerability, though for slightly different physiological reasons. Older adults often have more fragile bone structures and slower recovery times from traumatic brain injuries. A helmet that fails to stay in place during a crash can lead to direct impact on the head, significantly increasing the likelihood of serious injury or death. Furthermore, because these helmets feature a built-in lithium-ion battery, there is an additional layer of risk for all users if the unit is damaged. Lithium-ion batteries, when compromised, present a fire hazard that is distinct from the mechanical safety failure. Therefore, the at-risk population includes not just those concerned about head trauma during a ride, but also anyone who might mishandle the device during disposal, potentially exposing themselves or waste handlers to fire risks.
Ultimately, the risk is universal for any user of this specific model because the defect violates mandatory federal safety standards. There is no safe threshold for a bicycle helmet that cannot maintain its position on the head. Whether you are a daily commuter, a weekend rider, or a parent buying gear for your teenager, if you possess this large-sized Concord helmet, you are part of the at-risk group until you take action. The integration of technology, such as the light-up feature, may distract from the primary purpose of the device: protection. It is crucial to remember that no amount of visibility enhancement can compensate for a fundamental failure in structural integrity and retention.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action or contact the manufacturer, it is crucial to confirm that your specific helmet falls within the scope of this recall. Because Todson has issued this notice regarding a safety defect that could lead to serious injury, ensuring you have the correct product is the first step toward protecting yourself and your family. The company has recalled Concord-branded 360 Degree Rechargeable Light-Up bike helmets, but these were sold in specific configurations. If your helmet looks different, has different branding, or lacks the specific features described below, it is likely not part of this particular recall batch.
The primary identifier for this recall is the brand name and model description. You must look for the word "Concord" printed clearly on the back of the helmet. This is not a generic bicycle helmet; it is specifically a "360 Degree Rechargeable Light-Up" model. One of the most distinctive features of these helmets is their integrated lighting system. If your helmet does not have built-in LED lights, it is not the recalled item. The exterior of the affected helmets is entirely black. This includes the main shell, the straps, and the buckle mechanism. Additionally, look at the rear of the helmet where you adjust the fit; the recalled units feature a black plastic knob for tightening or loosening the strap system.
Size verification is equally important because this recall applies only to one specific size range. The recalled helmets are designated as size Large (L). This size is intended to fit a head circumference of approximately 22.8 to 24 inches. If you have a small, medium, or extra-large version, it is not included in this recall action. To be absolutely certain, measure the circumference of your head with a soft measuring tape and compare it to these dimensions. Do not rely solely on the label inside the helmet if it is worn or illegible; the physical description and size range are the most reliable indicators.
If you believe you own one of these helmets, do not simply assume it is safe to keep using it until you verify its status through the official channels. The recall was announced on February 26, 2026, by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). While the recall facts do not specify exactly where or when these were sold, the combination of the black exterior, the "Concord" branding on the back, the built-in LED lights, and the Large size fitting a 22.8 to 24-inch head circumference is the definitive profile of the recalled product. If your helmet matches all these criteria, you should treat it as the recalled item immediately.
What to do — step by step
If you own a Concord-branded 360 Degree Rechargeable Light-Up bike helmet, the most important first step is to immediately stop using it. While it might be tempting to wait for a replacement or ignore the issue because no accidents have been reported yet, the risk is real: the helmet does not meet mandatory federal safety standards for retention and stability. This means that in the event of a crash, the helmet could fail to stay securely on your head or absorb impact correctly, leading to serious head injury or death. Please do not take any chances with your safety. Instead, follow these concrete steps to resolve the issue safely and efficiently.
- Securely remove the straps. Before you contact the manufacturer for a refund, you must physically alter the helmet to ensure it cannot be used by anyone else. Take scissors or wire cutters and carefully cut the black straps off the helmet. This is a critical safety measure because simply handing the helmet back without cutting the straps could allow someone else to unknowingly use a defective product.
- Document the alteration. Once the straps are removed, take clear photographs of the helmet showing that the straps have been cut off. You will need these images as proof that you have complied with the safety instructions. This step is required to process your refund, so do not skip it.
- Contact Todson for your refund. Send the photos you just took to 360concordhelmet@todson.com. In your email, state that you are returning a recalled Concord helmet and include your order information if available. Todson will issue a full refund once they verify the photos. Alternatively, you can call their toll-free number at 800-278-2565 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, to speak with a representative directly.
- Dispose of the helmet safely. This is where many people make mistakes. Because these helmets contain built-in LED lighting systems powered by lithium-ion batteries, you cannot throw them in your regular household trash, curbside recycling bins, or standard used battery drop-off boxes at retail stores. Lithium-ion batteries pose a significant fire risk if mishandled. Instead, you must take the helmet to your municipal household hazardous waste (HHW) collection center. However, policies vary by location, so it is essential to call your local HHW center ahead of time to confirm they accept lithium-ion batteries in devices. If your local center does not accept them, contact your municipality for further guidance on proper disposal locations.
If you need help finding a safe disposal site near you, you can visit Todson.com/360-concord-recall for more information. Remember, this process is straightforward and designed to keep you and the community safe while ensuring you are not out of pocket for a defective product.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have been using your Concord-branded 360 Degree Rechargeable Light-Up bike helmet, the most important step you can take right now is to stop wearing it immediately. Because this specific model does not meet mandatory federal safety standards for retention and positional stability, it cannot be repaired or modified to become safe for use. The manufacturer, Todson, has issued a straightforward remedy: a full refund. There is no option for a repair kit or a direct replacement unit with a different model in this recall notice, so your path to resolution involves returning the item for reimbursement.
The process to claim your refund is designed to be simple, but it requires you to follow specific instructions regarding the physical state of the helmet before you reach out. You must first destroy the safety hazard by cutting the straps off the helmet. This step is crucial because it ensures that no one else in your household or community accidentally uses a defective piece of equipment. Once the straps are removed, you will need to take clear photos of the helmet showing that the straps have been cut off. These images serve as proof that you have taken the necessary safety precautions and are ready to proceed with the return.
To initiate your refund, you should send those photos via email to 360concordhelmet@todson.com. Alternatively, if you prefer to speak with someone directly, Todson has set up a toll-free customer service line at 800-278-2565. You can reach them between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. They are available to answer any questions about the refund process or to guide you through the next steps if you encounter any issues with the email submission. For additional digital resources, you can also visit todson.com/360-concord-recall or go to www.Todson.com and click "Recall" at the top of the page.
It is vital that you handle the disposal of the helmet correctly, particularly because this model contains a lithium-ion battery. Do not simply throw the entire helmet into your regular household trash or place it in curbside recycling bins. Lithium-ion batteries pose a significant fire risk if they are crushed or damaged during standard waste collection and processing. You should dispose of the battery component separately by taking it to a municipal household hazardous waste (HHW) collection center, provided they accept lithium-ion devices. It is wise to call your local HHW center ahead of time to confirm their acceptance policies. If they do not accept them, consult your municipality for further guidance or visit Todson’s recall website for potential disposal locations. By following these steps, you ensure both your financial reimbursement and the safe handling of hazardous materials.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might want to keep using a helmet that looks new and functions perfectly well. The Concord 360 Degree Rechargeable Light-Up bike helmets may appear sturdy, and the built-in LED lighting system offers visible convenience for night riding. However, ignoring this recall carries significant, potentially irreversible risks because the issue is not cosmetic or functional—it is structural. These helmets violate mandatory federal safety standards specifically regarding the retention system and positional stability. In plain terms, this means that even if the helmet sits on your head without falling off during normal movement, it is not engineered to stay securely in place during the chaotic, high-force dynamics of a crash.
When you wear a bicycle helmet, its primary job is to remain positioned correctly over your forehead and temples to absorb impact energy. The recalled Concord helmets fail to meet the rigorous requirements for keeping the helmet stable on the head during sudden movements or collisions. If you continue to use these helmets, you are relying on a false sense of security. In the event of a fall or accident, the helmet could shift, tilt, or come completely off your head before impact occurs. Once the helmet is displaced, it cannot protect your skull. This is not a minor inconvenience; it is a critical failure of the safety mechanism designed to save your life.
The consequences of this failure are severe. Because the helmets do not comply with the mandatory standard for positional stability, they can fail to protect the user in the event of a crash, posing a serious risk of injury or death due to head injury. Head injuries are among the most dangerous risks associated with cycling accidents. A direct blow to an unprotected head can result in traumatic brain injury, concussions, skull fractures, or fatal outcomes. By continuing to wear these defective helmets, you are essentially removing your last line of defense against catastrophic trauma.
We want to be clear that there have been no reported incidents of injuries or deaths associated with this specific recall as of the recall date in February 2026. This silence is not a sign that the risk is low; it means that unfortunately, severe accidents often go unreported to manufacturers until they become aware of widespread defects. The absence of reported injuries does not mean the helmets are safe. It simply means that no one has yet been harmed enough to report it. Do not wait for a personal experience with this hazard to validate the warning. The potential cost of ignoring this recall is your health and safety, which is far greater than the effort required to stop using the helmet and claim your refund.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a critical failure in the retention system of certain Concord helmets, the underlying principle applies to all head protection gear. The most effective way to stay safe is to understand that safety standards are minimum requirements, not guarantees of invincibility, and that proper maintenance is just as important as the initial purchase. When it comes to bicycle helmets, the fit is everything. A helmet that is too loose will shift during a crash, exposing your head to impact exactly where the padding was supposed to protect you. Before every ride, perform the "shake test": put the helmet on and tighten the side straps until they form a V-shape just below your ears. You should not be able to roll the helmet forward or backward on your head more than an inch. If the fit feels loose even after tightening, the adjustment dial at the back may be worn out, signaling that it is time for a new helmet.
Another often-overlooked factor is the age of your equipment. The materials inside a helmet—specifically the expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam liner—are designed to crush once to absorb impact energy. Once that foam has compressed, even from a minor drop or bump, it loses its ability to protect you in a subsequent crash. Manufacturers generally recommend replacing bicycle helmets every three to five years, regardless of visible damage, because UV exposure and sweat can degrade the structural integrity of the plastics and straps over time. Do not rely on cosmetic appearance; look for cracks, fraying straps, or discoloration as signs that your gear has reached the end of its service life.
Beyond helmet maintenance, proactive consumer vigilance is your best defense against hazardous products. Government recalls are public safety tools designed to remove dangerous items from circulation quickly, but they only work if you know about them. Sign up for email alerts from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and subscribe to notifications from major retailers where you shop. This ensures that if a product you own is flagged for a defect, you receive immediate guidance on how to remedy the situation. Additionally, always register your products after purchase. Many manufacturers require registration to send out critical safety updates or recall notices directly to you, rather than relying on public advertisements that you might miss.
Finally, remember that no piece of gear can replace situational awareness. While a certified helmet significantly reduces the risk of traumatic brain injury, it does not eliminate the danger entirely. Always wear your helmet correctly, ensure it is certified by relevant safety bodies such as the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) or the Snell Memorial Foundation, and combine that protection with careful riding habits. By staying informed about product recalls and respecting the limits of your equipment, you take control of your own safety in a way that no single device can achieve alone.