Advice on helmets (Aware of incorrect section)

[443330]

Hi all, firstly I am aware this has been posted in the wrong section and I apologize for this. I am needing to purchase a helmet urgently and seeing as this section has the most traffic I figured I would get faster responses and more than one opinion.

I am needing a helmet (have decided on full face for safety) for my -sighs- moped. I am not wanting to pay more than $200 and am looking for the best bargain. I measured around the widest part of my skull and believe it to be 57.5 cm which would place me in the medium size category I believe.

I have read purchasing a 2nd hand helmet is a foolish thing to do because of uncertainty over how it fits. Is this really the case?

Which brands should I steer clear of? and which brands should I be looking at for my budget?

Lastly, should I purchase on-line? Or visit a shop in person (I live in Auckland)?

All recommendations and advice welcome, again I apologize for positing in this section but it's a last resort!

Thank you all.

PS: I think I'd prefer either a plain white or black helmet with no graphics.

[Rhys]

I would pop into a couple of local bike shops and try some helmets and find what fits best
Then have a look on the net see what sort of price you can get it for (including freight) and go back the the shop and see if they can match that price, remember if buying of the net if you have a problem with the product who are you going to take it back to

[443330]

Good advice, and something I will likely do. Which are the "better" shops around Auckland? There are so many that I can't possibly visit them all and not to mention the price of gas of doing so.

[MSTRS]

There are a shitload of perfectly OK F/F helmets under $200. And plenty under $150 too.
People will ask you if you have a $100 head or a $1000 head. Truth is, if the helmet fits and is retail new, any will do the job.
I prefer D rings. The click-type are bastards to keep adjusted right.
There are even double visor (flip down tinted) at the cheaper end of the market now.

[steve_t]

IIRC LS2 is a pretty good, cheap brand but as you've pointed out, the most important thing is fit (along with meeting standards)

[bluninja]

I've got an LS2...$125 does the job...crap for visor misting up, but comfy.

Reason why you don't buy second hand is that a) you don't know if it's been dropped or banged (you hope that bike shops don't try to sell dropped or bashed ones). b) The shell starts to weaken over time due to UV light exposure, so should be replaced every 3-5 years depending on how much time it's in sunlight. c) The polystyrene also degrades over time and if you squeeze your head into a helmet that has previously had the lining slightly compressed by the first owner, then the compressed polystyrene won't protect your head as well.

[443330]

Okay so I will be buying a new helmet as it seems buying a 2nd hand one is not the wisest of decisions.

Now I just need recommendations on helmets under $200-150 and where to find them whether it be on-line or in a store.

Thanks for all the responses so far.

[Katman]

I'm doing 50% off most of the Shark helmets that I have in stock.

I have a medium S650 that works out to $175 with the discount.

$12 freight to Auckland.

[443330]

Can you provide me with a link to more information? Also because I have no idea if these helmets are any good or about the price you are offering could a few members chime in with advice please?

Thanks.

[FJRider]

I prefer D rings. The click-type are bastards to keep adjusted right.


Sew (or glue) a piece of velcro (male/female) to the helmet straps where they meet ... and they will never slip again.

[Maha]

I'm doing 50% off most of the Shark helmets that I have in stock.

I have a medium S650 that works out to $175 with the discount.

$12 freight to Auckland.

That is good buying RRP $349....http://www.cycletreads.co.nz/products/1031-shark_full_face_helmets/3142-shark_s650_helmet.aspx

[Katman]

Can you provide me with a link to more information? Also because I have no idea if these helmets are any good or about the price you are offering could a few members chime in with advice please?

Thanks.

One of these.

<img src="http://img0054.popscreencdn.com/126491405_amazoncom-shark-s650-frame-bksnwt-sm-motorcycle-full-.jpg"/>

Normal retail $350.

[443330]

Do you have any without graphics? Just a one colour plain helmet?

[bosslady]

Never EVER buy a helmet sight unseen or having never tried it on. I cannot stress this enough, I have learnt the hard way (bought one online, had to go out and buy another one).
Watch youtube videos on how to correctly fit a helmet, as in how much or how little it should move and where. Go to stores and try on a few helmets. You may well find a $150 helmet fits you better than a $200 etc. helmet. DO NOT BUY WITHOUT TRYING! If you do and it DOES fit you PROPERLY, that's luck. Katman is probably giving a good price (but I wouldn't know, to be fair) but if you can, I would try and find that exact helmet and see if it fits well first - before buying. Try it on!

[443330]

Thanks for the advice! and I definitely do plan on trying on the helmet before I purchase it. Which stores have the largest range/selection of helmets in the price range of $100-200?

[FJRider]

I've got an LS2...$125 does the job...crap for visor misting up, but comfy.

Reason why you don't buy second hand is that a) you don't know if it's been dropped or banged (you hope that bike shops don't try to sell dropped or bashed ones). b) The shell starts to weaken over time due to UV light exposure, so should be replaced every 3-5 years depending on how much time it's in sunlight. c) The polystyrene also degrades over time and if you squeeze your head into a helmet that has previously had the lining slightly compressed by the first owner, then the compressed polystyrene won't protect your head as well.

Not always the case ... I bought one second hand. The previous owner was a "Returning (to boyhood) rider ... and spent his kids inheritance on a Ducati and all the good gear to wear. His first and last ride was of 20 minutes duration (not including the trailering the bike home) No accident occurred ... he just scared the crap out of himself ... and refused to ride it home.
A $1200 helmet I scored for $200. Worn once for 20 minutes .. :killingme

If you know it's history .... it is often ok. Depending on circumstances really ... but by no means ALWAYS a bad thing to wear second hand helmets.

[bosslady]

Good advice, and something I will likely do. Which are the "better" shops around Auckland? There are so many that I can't possibly visit them all and not to mention the price of gas of doing so.

They're all as good as one another you just need to do your research. If you have the time you should shop around. Try cycletreads, honda cyclespot, suzuki holeshot (think I've got all those names right, lol). Shop around, compare fittings, compare prices. All three of those stores are on the same road (Barrys Point, Takapuna) so you can drive there and walk around and save your gas! I went to cyclespot and cycletreads, I ended up getting a $230 HJC helmet from cyclespot that I was happy with the fit.

[443330]

Great advice and much appreciated! I think I will take a look at those places tomorrow. Please keep the recommendations flowing!

[Katman]

Katman is probably giving a good price (but I wouldn't know, to be fair)...

Go on, you know I give a good price.

[Maha]

Great advice and much appreciated! I think I will take a look at those places tomorrow. Please keep the recommendations flowing!

I recommend that you try on a helmet, and when you find the right size for your nogen, either buy it, or, buy it from Katman at at 1/2 price...this is not a science project.

[clonak]

Try Colemans suzuki, in town, cnr K road and some other road. They were very help full when I was looking for a helmet, but sadly would not sell me one because all the ones they had did not fit me properly. They were very serious about getting me the right helmet(they were happy to sell me the wrong sprockets though, lol), they said to come back in awhile they might have some new stock, or try a different shop. I ended up at another bike shop they just picked up the first 'cheap' helmet and said "here, this will do you", And that was that. it fit alright, and a million times better then my old one, and for $150 I didnt really expect any better. But they just didnt seem to care too much as to weather it did fit properly. Or try cycletreads, they were really helpfull when I was getting my gear. Well the second time round.

[paturoa]

Try Motomail and Cycletreads. Their web sites don't always have the specials. So phone them up and have a chat.

[bosslady]

Go on, you know I give a good price.

yup. can't beat free!

[Oakie]

Forget the dollars (within reason) and get the one that fits best. My current one only cost me $150 3 years ago and I'm still happy with it.

[Asher]

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/157054-Hjc-rpha10mb-57-58-medium?p=1130508705#post1130508705

I have one and rate them highly, $800 helmet for $200 isnt bad either.

[SPP]

http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/157054-Hjc-rpha10mb-57-58-medium?p=1130508705#post1130508705

I have one and rate them highly, $800 helmet for $200 isnt bad either.

yep, but not that one... I just bought it.

edit: if the Shark S650 fits get it. Shark make really good helmets and at $175... well.

[blackdog]

If you aren't retarded you will take Katman up on his offer. If for some reason there was a sizing issue at your end when it arrives I am certain he will exchange for the correct size or refund if returned in new condition.

[bosslady]

They're all as good as one another you just need to do your research. If you have the time you should shop around. Try cycletreads, honda cyclespot, suzuki holeshot (think I've got all those names right, lol). Shop around, compare fittings, compare prices. All three of those stores are on the same road (Barrys Point, Takapuna) so you can drive there and walk around and save your gas! I went to cyclespot and cycletreads, I ended up getting a $230 HJC helmet from cyclespot that I was happy with the fit.

To the person who said my advice is shit and gave me red rep for this post. You're a tard. If you can't say it in the thread where everyone can see, then shut up. Better yet, do me a god damn favour and put me on ignore.

[steve_t]

If you aren't retarded you will take Katman up on his offer. If for some reason there was a sizing issue at your end when it arrives I am certain he will exchange for the correct size or refund if returned in new condition.

+1 to this. No brainer

[The End]

How can we trust the almighty Katman to save the day?

[Katman]

How can we trust the almighty Katman to save the day?

When has Katman ever let you down?

[443330]

I'm definitely interested then, do you have any others without the graphics? In just plain?

Thanks.

[Katman]

I'm definitely interested then, do you have any others without the graphics? In just plain?

Thanks.

Sorry, no.

That's the only medium in that price range that I have.

[443330]

Sorry to be picky, especially when you're offering me an awesome deal but I think I may regret the design on the helmet later on. You don't happen to have another helmet in size medium that is almost as good a deal as the Shark?
Sure am trying my luck here haha. Thanks to everyone who has chimed in with their advice. I do feel slightly foolish for not taking up the offer on the Shark but I will be wearing this helmet daily and would prefer one with a simple design as it's just how I am.

EDIT: Depending on the colour of the graphics I may have to suck it up and get it even if I don't like the graphics.

[GrayWolf]

Sorry to be picky, especially when you're offering me an awesome deal but I think I may regret the design on the helmet later on. You don't happen to have another helmet in size medium that is almost as good a deal as the Shark?
Sure am trying my luck here haha. Thanks to everyone who has chimed in with their advice. I do feel slightly foolish for not taking up the offer on the Shark but I will be wearing this helmet daily and would prefer one with a simple design as it's just how I am.

EDIT: Depending on the colour of the graphics I may have to suck it up and get it even if I don't like the graphics.

jeeeze!! you are INSIDE the lid, you cant see the graphics once its on, the design on the Shark isnt 'outrageous', I like you prefer a plain helmet, but if offered that kind of deal when out looking? Hell BITE the BULLET and buy it.....
thing no one has suggested yet is this..... Google,, SHARP helmet testing site..... it is a UK site that impact tests from top, front, rear and sides helmets sent to them and give them a rating.... some 'cheap' helmets outperform or equal expensive ones for safety,,, expensive helmets are like expensive cars,,,
they do the same job as a cheap one, but often have a lot of 'extra's' and will likely have better quality padding, liners, strap fittings, etc etc....
Look on the SHARP site, SHARK helmets that Katman is offering you are likely to be on there.....

No brainer!!

[FJRider]

EDIT: Depending on the colour of the graphics I may have to suck it up and get it even if I don't like the graphics.

Do you buy all your stuff by colour ... as the Grey one said ... you are inside it. Save your money for other important things ... like PETROL :laugh:

A half price helmet ... a good quality one at that ... you haven't even tried it on yet ... :crazy:

If after 2 years ... you still don't like it ... chuck it away :yes:

[443330]

I have done a fair bit of reading and have seen some of the cheaper helmets out perform some of the more expensive ones with a SHARP star rating. Although I wouldn't take these ratings as gospel as it would be very hard to simulate a wide range of crashes and conditions. Still, it's nice to know some of the cheaper helmets aren't failing miserably and will indeed help protect your noggin.

I'm going to take a look at some helmets today. Katman, I'd be interested in trying on the helmet. Are you near Auckland and is this possible?

And to those saying I shouldn't care about what the helmet looks like because I'll be on the inside of it, I agree. Yet the obsessive compulsive side of me argues otherwise :rolleyes:

[blackdog]

They're all as good as one another...

Years of experience there?


To the person who said my advice is shit and gave me red rep for this post. You're a tard. If you can't say it in the thread where everyone can see, then shut up. Better yet, do me a god damn favour and put me on ignore.

It was me and as you can plainly see your advice is shit. I would've thought you would prefer a wee private note rather than an on forum burn, but hey no skin off my nose. (although there may have been had I listened to your helmet advice).

[steve_t]

LOL. The guy's aware of the excellent offer available from Katman and has seen the multiple recommendations. He's a big boy, he can decide for himself. No need to berate him :girlfight:

[Katman]

Katman, I'd be interested in trying on the helmet. Are you near Auckland and is this possible?


Sorry but I'm down in Taupo.

How's this for a completely deranged offer?

PM me your address and I'll courier the helmet to you. If you're happy with the fit you can fix me up for the helmet and freight then.

If it's not to your liking you can courier it back to me at your expense and in the same condition it went up there in. (I.E. with tags still attached)

[443330]

Wow, I am flattered at the thought that you have gained enough trust in me through my previous 10 posts to put such an offer out there. I will be heading into the city soon to check out some helmets first hand, and hopefully will be able to try on the helmet you are offering me. Then I will get back to you with a response.

I am extremely grateful for your help and the other posters. There's something about the willingness of others to share their knowledge with a stranger that makes me smile. :)

[The Pastor]

Good advice, and something I will likely do. Which are the "better" shops around Auckland? There are so many that I can't possibly visit them all and not to mention the price of gas of doing so.

price of gas on a jog.


WTF

[Katman]

Wow, I am flattered at the thought that you have gained enough trust in me through my previous 10 posts to put such an offer out there.

It's not so much that I've gained enough trust in you, it's more that by giving me your address I'd know where you live.

:msn-wink:

[443330]

There's always the possibility I give you a random persons address? haha talk about shooting myself in the foot.

And I own a Yamaha Jog but haven't been able to use it because of a lack of a helmet.

[FJRider]

It's not so much that I've gained enough trust in you, it's more that by giving me your address I'd know where you live.

:msn-wink:

So ... you deliver them too ... :banana: :innocent:

[bosslady]

Wow, I am flattered at the thought that you have gained enough trust in me through my previous 10 posts to put such an offer out there. I will be heading into the city soon to check out some helmets first hand, and hopefully will be able to try on the helmet you are offering me. Then I will get back to you with a response.

I am extremely grateful for your help and the other posters. There's something about the willingness of others to share their knowledge with a stranger that makes me smile. :)

Eez a good carnt, but don't tell em I said that.

[443330]

Well I didn't get time today to take a look at any of the places because of the typical story of someone crashing and causing the motorway to be backed up. Quite frustrating but I'll try tomorrow. Thinking about just taking up Katman on his offer, by the way is it the red or blue design?

[p.dath]

Check out my BLOG article about choosing a motorcycle helmet:
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/entry.php/1562-Choosing-a-Motorcycle-Helmet

[Katman]

Thinking about just taking up Katman on his offer, by the way is it the red or blue design?

It's exactly like the one in post #12. Black, white and silver.

[443330]

Well that's a positive. How can I send you my private details? I'm to new to the site to use the private message feature.

EDIT: Can a forum admin temporarily change this? Thanks.

[443330]

Check out my BLOG article about choosing a motorcycle helmet:
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/entry.php/1562-Choosing-a-Motorcycle-Helmet

Awesome article for newbies looking at buying a helmet. Covers some very important key points.

[Madness]

So ... you deliver them too ... :banana: :innocent:

I believe he knows people...

[FJRider]

Well that's a positive. How can I send you my private details? I'm to new to the site to use the private message feature.

EDIT: Can a forum admin temporarily change this? Thanks.

Keep trying ... you dont need many posts before you can.

[FJRider]

I believe he knows people...

Few admit it though ... :pinch:

[Madness]

Few admit it though ... :pinch:

http://youtu.be/AUO_5EALZoM

[shafty]

Another option: http://www.eurobike.co.nz/products/62-givi_helmets/470-givi_hps_7001_helmet.aspx Just $179 !!

I have a flip face Givi ($399) - most comfy helmet in 30 + years of riding

Great brand too

List of Dealers: http://www.eurobike.co.nz/dealers.aspx

Tell them Shafty sent ya - Look them in the eye when you do :headbang:

[443330]

How does one of these GIVI helmets stack up to the SHARK S650? Cheers for the link.

[shafty]

IMHO Givi have been leading providers of bike luggage - panniers and top boxes
For years, and I assume their keen pricing is to help them establish themselves selling helmets.

For years I wore Shoei but they got more and more expensive. All helmets must conform to safety standards / there's your protection ......

Good luck

[pete376403]

Get one of these. http://www.graf-x.co.uk/index.php/shopping/ultimate-predator-2

[443330]

Haha, I think I'll pass on that one. Wouldn't want to scare every single child I come into contact with.

[443330]

Katman, if you could let me know if it has been posted that would be great. Also do you know how likely it is to arrive on Monday?

[443330]

Hi Katman, I can't reply to you via private message so here will have to do. I haven't been able to try the helmet on yet as no one was home to sign for it so it's gone straight to the depot.