Objective To propose an airbag-type helmet cushioning lining structure and analyze its protective effect on the head injury of two-wheeled bicycle riders. Methods The airbag lining was applied to two typical two-wheeled bicycle helmets for bicycles (half helmets) and motorcycles (full helmets). Then kinematic and biomechanical responses of the human head model were predicted from impact simulations under the test conditions of the standard GB 24429-2009 and the regulations ECE R22.05, which were employed for comprehensively evaluation of the protective performance of the airbag helmet from the perspective of skull fracture and brain injury risk compared with conventional EPS helmets. Results When the airbag pressure was 0.06MPa, the relevant amount of human skull fracture under the protection of airbag helmet (half helmet/full helmet) is less than 120g and 150g, respectively; the risk of skull fracture is basically lower than 40%; the maximum principal strains of the brain are both less than 0.3, which indicate that the risk of mild brain injury is less than 25%.Generally, the risk of human skull fracture and head injury under the protection of airbag helmets is lower than that of EPS helmets. Conclusion The airbag helmet designed in this paper has a good protective effect, can be taken into account for protection of skull fracture and head injury, and can provide a reference for helmet design