Abstract: A steering wheel for motor vehicles is provided and has a horn switch that is disposed thereon as well as an air bag device that has a receiving chamber for receiving a gas generator as well as an air bag that is folded therein. The opening of the receiving chamber is closed off by a protective cover that has a predetermined breaking point and that can be opened when the device is activated by the inflating air bag. To carry out a honking function, the protective cover is disposed so as to be relatively movable. The receiving chamber for the air bag is closed off by a hold-down part that absorbs the packing pressure, is held in place on the receiving chamber, and opens as a consequence of the inflating air bag. To be able to open, the hold-down part is provided with a predetermined breaking point.