Barack Obama's helmetless bike ride sparks controversy

Washington, Aug 29 (ANI): US President Barack Obama has sparked a controversy after being pictured helmetless during a bike ride on Martha's Vineyard.

The move, which took place on August 27, has been seen as a bad example by most.

"Yes, I know, President Obama is on a vacation, riding a bike, at a slow cadence, so what if he is not wearing a helmet, right?" Politico.com quoted Martha Castro, a California doctor, as having written on her website.

While Josh Loposer, wrote on Babble.com, a website for parents, "Truly despicable isn't it? What kind of example is he setting for the nation's youth?"

"Most bike accidents just happen. Bicycles up and turn over by themselves, and head injuries are a possible consequence of that. ... It would be great if the president set an example," David Mozer, director of the International Bicycle Fund, told the New York Daily News.

With all the attention the incident was receiving, the White House decided on issuing an explanation.

"I know that he generally does wear a helmet when he rides a bicycle. He supports the wearing of bicycle helmets," White House spokesman Bill Burton said. (ANI)