Helmets 101

[Colapop]

Who's got pointers about what to look for? Obviously the big one - it has to fit comfortably. What does that actually mean though? How should it fit? It may sound like a stupid question but, I'm serious. Most helmets I put on feel, ok. Not superb and not bad. I've been told that different helmets fit differently - that just means to me that many people have many different shaped heads.
What is the difference between a $100 lid and a $800 one? How many vents do I need? Do I need a flip top lid? Do colours make a difference (visibility)?
Apart from just saying "You should get "X" brand" can you guys give some pointers?

[MattRSK]

Make sure you get one that is tight to start with. They do crush down inside them. When I bought mine it felt like it was going to rip my ears off everytime I took it on or off, but now it is real comfortable and does not move around on my head. Well worth the money too. Shark RS800.

[Mental Trousers]

Even pressure everywhere is a good thing to aim for. It means the helmet is actually the right shape for your head. It should be tight enough that when you grab the chin piece and move it up and down or left to right that it doesn't actually move on your head. Once you've found one that seems to fit wear it for 5 minutes in the shop and see if you start getting a headache. If you do, go up to the next size. And remember helmets will loosen up a little over time.

[RantyDave]

What is the difference between a $100 lid and a $800 one?

Weight; noise; aerodynamics (particularly when doing a headcheck prior to changing lanes); whether or not the liner can be removed practically; vents; a thing that directs breath down instead of at the visor; pretty colours ... I think that's about it. Almost certainly not how safe it is. I'm steadily becoming of the 'more expensive' school of thought on helmets, what with using a basically cheap one every day.

Would be interested in a discussion about whether or not one can test ride a helmet - don't know how you'd assess noise and aerodynamics otherwise. Bike shop people? Hello?

Dave

[Str8 Jacket]

Definately look out for a pastel coloured open faced helmet. THey're the best.

[Squeak the Rat]

Parroting some of the above:

Snug fit with no pressure spots. It should be tight enough that your cheeks and forehead move with the helmet when it is moved side to side or up/down.

Given the same helmet design, more vents = noisier. That doesn't necessarily mean a well vented helmet is noisier than a lesser vented competitor.

Noise is also generated by airflow around the base of the helmet. Ensure a good fit around cheeks. Some brands have chin spoilers (eg Arai) while some use neck curtains (i think Nolan).

Most of the more expensive ones conform to Snell standards. This involves a two impact test at certain weight/force. Most cheaper ones conform to Dot or some other standard I can't remember. However there is a line of thought that suggests a the double hit test is unlikely to be needed as it is tested in exactly the same point so Snell helmets might be over-engineered and subject the head to higher G-forces.

Colour? White is supposed to be the safest colour but not sure if that is scientifically proven or not. Another thought is that heavy graphics act as camoflauge and solid colours are better for vis. But you wear black leather...?

Flip lids - most/some don't conform to full face safety standards. I think Nolan are ok, not sure about others. Good at gas stations but of dubious aesthetic value at supermarkets.

Weight - obviously lighter is more comfortable, especially over longer distances.

Regarding the fit, most bike shops are pretty good at helping out. You should be able to tell fairly easy who knows what they are talking about.

[Shadows]

Do I need a flip top lid?

Apparently not if you have one of those Reach toothbrushes.

[sAsLEX]

What shape is your head?

Arai shoei etc?!

Also Asians are better off getting their helmets from over there as to pcompanies have diff shapes for diff markets etc

I am not saying your asian though, just dont be fooled into something cheap on the net if you dont know what it is exactly.

Should be snug, if not slightly tight as your head will mould into the inner linings.

D rings are better than clips.

Look for black or plain as they will be cheaper so you can buy a better quality helmet rather than a prettier one.

Some fitment tips here http://www.araihelmet-europe.com/sit...Manual_ENG.pdf

[Colapop]

I've seen these on Tardme or this - I like the black one better (as a style) but I'll get one from a shop I think.

[Gremlin]

Make sure its SNELL approved as well... its a higher standard than dot, and uses batch testing, not design approval (well, what I was told, anyway).

You might be surprised just how small the size of the helmet might be. I'm not little, but buying a medium was not a good idea, as its loose now. I'm going for a small next time, as crazy at it may seem.

[sAsLEX]

Make sure its SNELL approved as well... its a higher standard than dot, and uses batch testing, not design approval (well, what I was told, anyway).

Just the HJC cls type that was banned in the states?


And wouldnt really look at that zues helmet. $5 head then get a $5 helmet.

[Colapop]

yEAH BUT i CAN'T AFFORD A $10,000 HELMET

[Hitcher]

Helmets? Harumph! It would be nice to have a choice...

[Lou Girardin]

With flip fronts, look for 'P' or 'N/P' on the certification serial number. NP means it has been certified as an open face. (The chin bar won't pass the tests)
To check fit, hold the sides of the helmet with both hands, move your head from side to side slightly, the skin on your forehead should move with the helmet lining.
Then check whether it will roll forward by doing up the strap and trying to roll the helmet forward on your head. It should not move much.
Go for the snuggest fit that is comfortable, helmets padding does compress with use.
When you decide on one, give it to Dover to test.

[Motig]

Wouldn't worry about a flip front unless you wear glasses. Thats the only reason I'm going to get one of those new Nolans,to much hassle with the glasses, otherwise normal full face would be fine.As for price get the best you can afford, as long as its a well known make you'll be right.