Motorcycle Helmets

   To go along with your one piece leathers and your back protector, you are going to need a great motorcycle helmet. What makes a helmet great? Many things, for instance the graphics on the outside, the fit but most importantly the thing that makes a helmet great is it’s ability to keep you alive in the event of a crash. The only helmets that I use and recommend are full face helmets. If you are into the open face or half helmets that is completely up to you on the street, but as far as the track is concerned, full face helmet are a requirement. Full face helmets are what I will be talking about in this article.

   Here’s what you need to do when chosing a helmet. The first thing look for is the look of the helmet its self. Sounds simple I know but, it needs to have eye appeal so that you will want to wear it. You get the best helmet ever made but if you are not wearing it, it is not going to do you any good. The second thing you want to look for is the DOT and SNELL approved logo inside the helmet. If it does not have both, DO NOT GET IT. This also holds true for the open face and half helmets. The DOT is the Deparment of Transportation and SNELL is a not-for-profit organization that is “dedicated to research, education, testing and development of helmet safety standards.” Click here for more information about SNELL. 

    The next thing to look for is the fit. The top of the face opening should just above your eyebrow and the bottom of the opening should be just below your nose. The fit should be slightly snug but comfortable. If you look like a bobble head, the helmet is too loose. If you try to spin the helmet around on your head and it doesn’t move, perfect, it shouldn’t. The last thing to look for is the closure. Is it secure? Is it tight enough? Is it simple enough for you to operate? If the amsewr is yes to all of these, then congratulations, you have yourself a great helmet.

   One issue that faces some riders is cost. A great helmet is not going to be cheap. They will range from $150 to $600. It may seem like a lot but you are putting a price on your life. I paid $400 for my helmet and when I first got it I thought I was getting ripped of, but the first time I went down sliding head first on the pavement, I was thankful I had a great helmet on. There are some web sites that are advertising motorcycle helmets for $40 or so. Don’t be sucked in by price. Thes helmets are not DOT or SNELL approved and my not protct you the way you need to be protected. Like I have said before, safety is no place to cut cost or corners. I personally use Shoei helmets. They are DOT and SNELL approved plus they have a long history in motorcycle racing. For more information about Shoei helmets. To purchase a Shoei helmet.

Happy Safe Riding

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