IN A bid to save Melbourne's troubled bike share scheme, the state government is considering providing collapsible helmets that could fold up and be carried in a briefcase or handbag.

The scheme's operator, RACV, will also hand out free conventional bike helmets next month and VicRoads has confirmed it is working with RACV on a range of other helmet options, including the collapsible variety.

The helmet is made from robust textiles that folds easily.

Figures obtained by The Sunday Age show that usage of the new scheme - introduced late May - remains low and declined last month.

The Sunday Age understands that RACV will next month promote the 600-bike scheme on a series of ''roadshows'', visiting city businesses and giving away free helmets and trial vouchers. The RACV and VicRoads are also considering helmet vending machines, although this is believed to be an expensive option.