View Full Version : Helmet weights
MSTRS
19th September 2007, 11:54
Was talking to Stickchick the other day and the subject of helmet weights came up. Not having/never had a crook neck, it never occurred to me that some helmets may be bad for aggravating this condition. So I did a little research...
www.webbikeworld.com/motorcycle-helmets/motorcycle-helmet-weights.htm
It would seem that balance is probably more important.
Anyone have advice for SC on what model may be best for her?
Colapop
19th September 2007, 11:58
Shark Acid - she tried and liked it.
jrandom
19th September 2007, 12:00
I notice that a Nitro model is the third lightest in the list you link to. I was quite impressed with them recently. Particularly for the price.
I've always felt that Arais give the best good balance/weight feeling on the head out of the 'premium' helmet brands. They don't fit my melon shaped noggin, though.
Shoeis and HJCs feel more chunky.
Shoei for life in my books, they consistently fit me the best, but I have a thick neck; weight doesn't matter that much to me. The Raid and now the XR1000 always feel just fine for eight or more hours at a stretch. Don't even notice them.
Stickchick
19th September 2007, 12:03
Unfortunately due to having problems with my neck (caused by a car accident years ago) I need something that isn;t gonna strain while I'm on the bike. I currently have a HJC, wasn't very dear but now I can feel the pressure on my neck when I wear it which makes riding for me a little painful. Remembering too that I'm on a budget at the moment and I know that people say that you only have one body but you can't really buy what you can't afford.
Thanks for the info too, was worth the read
Pixie
19th September 2007, 12:09
I wasn't aware you could get helmet weights.
I've been making do with some stick on tyre weights to balance the hideous tumour on the side of my head.
LilSel
19th September 2007, 12:09
I notice that a Nitro model is the third lightest in the list you link to.
I have a Nitro & I find it really light compared to any others I have tried/held/carried/put on.
I need something that isn;t gonna strain while I'm on the bike.
You can play with my helmet on friday, see if nitro brand may be suitable. (they are not hellishly expensive either) :)
EDIT: Mine isnt the Nitro N1200 that is on the list lol... I dont remember what model it is... but its not really heavy lol :whistle:
vifferman
19th September 2007, 12:10
It's interesting how different the weights they recorded are from the claimed ones: both my AGV X-Vent (not actually listed, but another couple of AGVs are) and the Shoei XR-1000 (RF-1000 in the US) are more than 100g heavier than the weight sticker on them says. I guess the difference could be whether the visor is included???
The AGV feels heavier (both hefting it and wearing it), despite the 'sticker weight' being the same as the Shoei.
And for those who think a few grams here/there makes no difference - just wait till you crash. I've had whiplash [insert "Wooo-PSSSHH!! sound effect] from a low speed fall onto my shoulder. A kilo-and-a-half of helmet adds a lot of inertia to your head which blardy hurts when it comes to a stop.
vifferman
19th September 2007, 12:12
Arais ... don't fit my melon shaped noggin, though.
There are several Arai shapes now (three, I think). Apparently, my head is a "scottish oval" (figures, dunnit?) which is the 'Corsair' shape. Feels the same on as the XR1000 Shoei, but costs considerably more...
Trudes
19th September 2007, 13:23
I have neck and back problems also and certainly notice some pain, stiffness and headachey type shit after a few hours of open road riding, so I can understand the helmet weight issue.
I've found my Arai Viper pretty good so far for balance and weight, haven't had any pain. My old HJC wasn't too bad, however it was a child's size sml, had a small shell size and obviuosly weighed very little, so I think that helped. So anyway, I haven't been much help, except in saying, go for the best fit, and lightest you can afford, try different ones on and maybe stand in the shop and headbang for a couple of minutes and see which one doesn't make your head hurt:bash:. Good luck.:sunny:
Coldrider
19th September 2007, 13:32
I have a Shoei XR800, that is very light, and oval shaped that cuts through the wind. Previous helmey was a Shoei RF200. The XR800 was like a godsend compared to that, my shoulders are far more relaxed even after 7 hours riding. I will be replacing it soon, will be looking for a Shoei equivalent.
Stickchick, everyone is on a budget one way or another, the more people earn, the more they spend, of course you will buy the best helmet you can afford.
kiwifruit
19th September 2007, 13:34
Arai helmets are very well balanced (the top models).
Expensive for a reason. There is a difference.
cowpoos
19th September 2007, 13:40
certainly notice some pain, stiffness and headachey type shit after a few hours of open road riding, so I can understand the helmet weight issue.
That can almost be just as easily dehydration...dehydrated muscles get sore and stiff very easily...and its very easy to get dehydrated riding bikes...
I understand you mention you have back neck problems so may not be the case...another thing is how you sit on your bike...if you not comfortable with handle bar stretch etc..[bikes have alot of adjustment]..it can relay strain to alot of other muscles...
just some thoughts! :)
HungusMaximist
19th September 2007, 13:42
I have a Nitro & I find it really light compared to any others I have tried/held/carried/put on.
You can play with my helmet on friday, see if nitro brand may be suitable. (they are not hellishly expensive either) :)
EDIT: Mine isnt the Nitro N1200 that is on the list lol... I dont remember what model it is... but its not really heavy lol :whistle:
I wear a Nitro N900V which I bought at Motomail outlet store for about $150-$160 bucks.
When it first came out I think they retailed around the $250-299 mark (a lot of fucken money).
They are still doing this promo at the moment but just make sure you try it on and see if it is your liking.
Personally I bought it just because it was well price (cheap) and had the features I wanted (removable liner). Of course, I won't be buying a Nitro again because it's a little shady on the quality side, but of course what do you expect if you only pay $150 bucks for a helmet.
It actually has a fiber glass shell (fancy yes) for the price, it's great but I won't count on how well it will stand in a real crash.
My next helmet is definitely gonna be a SHOEI cuz they fit my head real well. :cool:
*Any people with crash experience on a Nitro helmet please tell
Trudes
19th September 2007, 13:44
That can almost be just as easily dehydration...dehydrated muscles get sore and stiff very easily...and its very easy to get dehydrated riding bikes...
I understand you mention you have back neck problems so may not be the case...another thing is how you sit on your bike...if you not comfortable with handle bar stretch etc..[bikes have alot of adjustment]..it can relay strain to alot of other muscles...
just some thoughts! :)
Thanks Poos, good suggestions!! :yes:
Maybe I need a big loser screen on the Hornet too to cut down the amount of wind hitting my noggin! :no:
cowpoos
19th September 2007, 13:50
Thanks Poos, good suggestions!! :yes:
Maybe I need a big loser screen on the Hornet too to cut down the amount of wind hitting my noggin! :no:
simply moving the handle bars closer to you could do wonders...gals genrally have shorter arms the the average dude...so tend to lean forward on the bars a bit...then have to tilt their heads back to get a open veiw of the road...get mr dog to rotate your bars back a bit and try it out over the weekend...see if it makes a difference! :)
HungusMaximist
19th September 2007, 13:50
What I recommend to Stick Chick is to try on as many helmet as possible, through friends with bikes or through dealers.
The parts guy 'Peter' at Red Baron was happy for me to take a $900 dollar SHOEI for a spin on my bike. Of course, if you drop it, you pay for it but I think most dealers will be happy to let you take their helmets for a ride (with a bit of your girly naggy charm of yours, you'd be fine).
The only thing you won't be able to tell is the long distance fatigue factor, as you gotta ride for at least an hour with the helmet on. But I am sure if you work your girly charm magic it'd be ok, or better yet, just borrow some nice boys nice new lid and take it out for a spin.
Happybug
19th September 2007, 14:01
my old shoei was too old and it had gotten loose and chunky. It rattled about and made my neck sore. My new Shoei is great, stops that sore neck after long km's. If a helmet is fitting well i don't believe the weight should be an issue, after all your not talking huge differences here. I think the key is to get a good fitting helmet that won't be pushed around in the wind. That and posture on the bike so your not fighting your natural muscle stance. All else fails, have u tried a good back fixer?
MSTRS
19th September 2007, 14:05
What I recommend to Stick Chick is to try on as many helmet as possible, through friends with bikes or through dealers.
The right advice. Must wear the helmet for at least 15 minutes to see if there are tight spots.
No good borrowing a used one as the innards have stretched/compacted to the owners head.
Besides, not too many people out there with XS...
Stickchick
19th September 2007, 14:06
Besides, not too many people out there with XS...
Shooosh now people will know I live up to my signature "simple but smartlooking" :lol:
MSTRS
19th September 2007, 14:15
Shooosh now people will know I live up to my signature "simple but smartlooking" :lol:
The three monkeys. That's me. Promise.
roogazza
19th September 2007, 14:21
Speaking as someone with a rooted neck, the new Shoei X Spirit is a big improvement on earlier models.
Weight alone, it was worth it, 1300 g I think ? $1200. !!!!!! Gaz.
Katman
19th September 2007, 14:48
Shark RSR helmets are 1250gms.
Rashika
19th September 2007, 14:54
It's interesting how different the weights they recorded are from the claimed ones: both my AGV X-Vent (not actually listed, but another couple of AGVs are) and the Shoei XR-1000 (RF-1000 in the US) are more than 100g heavier than the weight sticker on them says. I guess the difference could be whether the visor is included???
The AGV feels heavier (both hefting it and wearing it), despite the 'sticker weight' being the same as the Shoei.
the weight for the Shoei of mine (Diabolic, whatever model that is) is (from memory) around the 1350gms, but we actually weighed in once for a comparison and found it was actually 100gms lighter than the sticker. And that includes a chin guard and nose guard.
Size is a small, so I'm guessing the sticker may just be the heaviest average weight? I also have a Suomy and it is a very similar in fit/weight/feel to the shoei. I think I've got a round head... dont really fit many other brands except for the most expensive Arai :whistle:
NZsarge
19th September 2007, 16:41
Arai helmets are very well balanced (the top models).
Expensive for a reason. There is a difference.
Yup, the budget ones are good too, not the they are cheap either....
bert_is_evil
20th September 2007, 13:00
I've read suomy's are smaller and fit closer with less room between your chin and the chinbar so weigh less. I wanted to try one on for that reason but alas they only had giganto sizes in all of the stores I looked in. I got an Arai Profile (XS) in the end but find it's quite deep i.e. comes down further below the chin, so when combined with the long stretch to the hand grips it tends to sit on my shoulders a bit - you might want to consider that as a factor too.
NordieBoy
20th September 2007, 13:52
I wasn't aware you could get helmet weights.
I've been making do with some stick on tyre weights to balance the hideous tumour on the side of my head.
They're your ears man.
HungusMaximist
21st September 2007, 10:25
www.webbikeworld.com/motorcycle-helmets/motorcycle-helmet-weights.htm
It would seem that balance is probably more important.
Anyone have advice for SC on what model may be best for her?
Hey I was just checking out the helmet FAQ on webbikeworld and it had a series of different head shapes. Just wondering how the heck do I work out what shape my head is?
I find, the ones I have tried I can fit SHOEI, HJC, NITROS, KBC, and Nolans.
I can't fit ARAI, AGV, RJAYS, or SHARK.
I remember some dude I was talking to at Motohaus (next to Motomail outlet store) mentioning ARAI bring out a EUROPEAN shaped helmet and a ASIAN shaped one.
Since I don't fit the European one, I am guessing I got a Asian shaped head. :banana:
???
MVnut
21st September 2007, 19:09
I have a few helmets all of which I think are very good, a Shoei which I've had for a few years, a Shark RS1 & a BMW Sportintegral Carbon which is soooooooooo light ( 950 + or - 50 grams is what is written on it ) but also soooooooooo expensive. The BMW is also incredibly aerodynamic (zero lift or turbulence) at very high speed and is super quiet. I think if you can afford it the BMW will be the best helmet you will ever use, the Shoei is my second favourite. Try on heaps, buy the best you can. ciao:scooter:
Coldrider
21st September 2007, 22:27
The wind blast up and over from the fairing visor is different on each type of motorcycle as well, interacting with helmet blast/lift/noise.
MVnut
22nd September 2007, 10:29
The wind blast up and over from the fairing visor is different on each type of motorcycle as well, interacting with helmet blast/lift/noise.
But using the different helmets on similar bikes including naked bikes, the BMW helmet is totally superior....eg sustained speeds over 200kph on a Brutale no problemo !:banana::banana:
Rashika
22nd September 2007, 19:24
But using the different helmets on similar bikes including naked bikes, the BMW helmet is totally superior....eg sustained speeds over 200kph on a Brutale no problemo !:banana::banana:
I looked at the possibility of a BMW one but couldn't find a dealer at the time to try one on, and i wasn't going to buy one without trying so got the shoei instead. I did like the sound of them tho
MVnut
22nd September 2007, 20:12
Tne BMW dealers don't even stock them, mine came from Germany after I ordered it. If you see me round with it you can always try it on.:beer:
Rashika
22nd September 2007, 20:17
might just hold you to that, altho i have a small head, hense the reason i wanted to try the size first. But still be curious to see one... :msn-wink:
Bike-aholic
23rd September 2007, 14:39
Speaking as someone with a rooted neck, the new Shoei X Spirit is a big improvement on earlier models.
Weight alone, it was worth it, 1300 g I think ? $1200. !!!!!! Gaz.
Yep nice helmet i tried one on at haldanes and will be getting it out of the US for around $650NZ landed.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&sspagename=ADME%3AB%3AWNASIF%3AMT%3A12&viewitem=&item=110164424255
Stickchick
23rd September 2007, 21:23
Well I had a very worthwhile trip to Auckland and I'm now the owner of a brand New Shoei Raid II
NZsarge
27th September 2007, 07:12
Well I had a very worthwhile trip to Auckland and I'm now the owner of a brand New Shoei Raid II
Money wisely spent.
Rashika
27th September 2007, 07:14
yep definately, nice helmet and not too expensive
Stickchick
27th September 2007, 10:08
Its 100g lighter than the one I have now and alot better fitting also. Plus when I put it on I don;t feel the pressure on my neck like my old one. Yep VERY happy with it.
Got to ride to Napier tonight so that will be the test as to whether it will cause problems with my neck and I may have to look at a neck brace for another option, which I'm not too keen on.
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