Motorcycle Helmet Buying Guide
From LoveToKnow Buy
A motorcycle helmet buying guide is a must have, just like the actual helmet itself. Protecting your head while on a motorcycle should be second nature, much like shifting into second. Some buyers simply pick the helmet with the coolest design or with the least restriction. Casual riders often choose something totally different than off-road bikers, so knowing the materials that are available, the styles you can purchase, and the amount of protection provide is how this motorcycle helmet buying guide will help you.
What Is a Helmet Made From?
A main part of the helmet is made from an energy absorbent foam. There are still four parts of a helmet, which have existed since the beginning of helmet times. There's the foam, of course, then the hard outer shell—usually made from a hard plastic—a soft inner lining and a chin-strap. The outer shells purpose is not to absorb impact, but to slide along the impact. Sometimes, the shell is made from fiberglass or even Kevlar, which can get expensive. The inside liner of the helmet should provide a comfortable and tight fit; you don't want the helmet sliding around on your head.
Ratings
Besides materials, ratings play an important part of selecting a helmet. There are two ratings that a helmet should have: a Snell rating and a DOT (Department of Transportation). The Snell ratings tend to be more accurate as the tests use on the helmets are tougher and closer to reality. If a helmet does not have a Snell rating, a DOT rating will ensure the helmet is standard enough to use.
Motorcycle Helmet Buying Guide: Types of Protection
Depending on your riding style, there are various motorcycle helmets that can accompany your bike.
Half Helmets
The least protective helmets are the half-helmets. These resemble top hats or derbies. Only the top part of your skull is covered. Your forehead might be afforded some protection, but your face is free to the wind. Riders are encouraged to wear sturdy eye wear to shield from the wind and debris.
Open Face Helmets
Both designs of the open face helmets have one thing in common: No front protective faceplate. The Three-Quarter Helmet covers the head, ears, and back of the neck, but has no face or chin guard. The Flip-Up Helmet offers a minimal chin guard and also has a faceplate that can be flipped up or down. While not the best protection, the flip-guard can provide some abrasion absorbtion.
Full Face Helmets
For the best protection to your head and face, purchase a Full-Face Helmet. The top of your head and up to 60% of your face is protected by the energy absorbing foam. Breathability is obtained by mouth holes and vision is protected by a visor. The visors are usually UV darkened and can be removed. Almost all full-face helmets are Snell approved since they are commonly used in motorcycle road racing like the MotoGP and Grand Prixs.
If you are interested in a full-face helmet keep the following tips in mind:
- Ensure the helmet has an adequate ventilation system so it's not hot inside the helmet.
- Check the liner. Can it be removed? You want something that you can wash after some many wears.
- The cheek pads need to fit snug as well as comfortable. Does the helmet offer a variety of pads to choose from?
Off Road Helmets
Off-Road helmets are similar to full-face helmets, but usually have the ability to replace parts. These types of helmets are prone to heavier damage and usage, so finding a helmet that has a excellent venting system and anti-glare visors is a must.
Other Information
- Once a helmet has been damaged, whether or not it's due to an accident, you should not use it again. The foam has been compromised and may not distribute impact correctly.
- Motorcycle helmets age, but not well. You should get a new helmet every three or four years.
- Don’t pick a helmet solely on design. Check the rating and snugness and comfort and you'll be riding in safety style for years. And don't forget to reference this motorcycle helmet buying guide!
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This page has been accessed 534 times. This page was last modified 06:54, 21 February 2009.
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