Of course, no one wants an ugly helmet, or one that is going to break the bank. For years I’ve wanted an Arai helmet, but I just can’t find a model that fits. Remember, safety is paramount throughout this decision.
Fallen in love with a design?
Like me, if you’ve fallen for a specific design but the model doesn’t fit, check the manufacturers website to see if they apply that design to any others within their range. Often you’ll find that they do, in which case, check out their preferred supplier list or buy direct.
Spend as much as you can (reasonably). Don’t take vents for granted, too. In our experience, as helmets get older they begin to steam up quicker. Pin locks become less effective if removed over the helmet’s lifetime, so good old fashion ventilation will do you well in the long run.
Consider safety ratings
Different countries and manufacturers have different measures of safety. Here in the U.K., we have a Government backed scheme called SHARP (Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme). It awards a rating out of 5 to helmets depending on how they perform throughout their 32 impact tests.
Did you hear that?
Believe it or not, the Transport Research Laboratory reports that a noisy helmet can contribute to tiredness, which affects concentration over time. Of course there are other variables, which contribute to noise, such as bike style, riding position, speed, and whether you have an extortionately loud exhaust!
When should I buy a new motorcycle helmet?
– If you use it day in, day out, every 2 years
– Otherwise, every 5 years
– In the event of dropping the helmet or any other damage where you feel its ability to perform has been compromised
– When you have been involved in an accident
Technological advancements
Manufactures are constantly trying to make helmets safer. Therefore, newer helmets are much more likely to be safer thanks to advanced technology and materials.
Should I buy a motorcycle helmet online?
It’s often recommended that you don’t buy online for a number of reasons:
– You should try on different models from different manufacturers to find a perfect fit
– You may settle for one that fits ‘OK’ to avoid the inconvenience of sending it back
– Helmets arrive in the dealership on a protected pallet with other helmets. They will arrive on their own to your house, increasing the chances of getting damaged along the way
– Many online retailers are now accepting returns and while this is good for the prospective buyer,
But what is a perfect fit?
Again, try a variety of helmets on. Look for something that feels comfortable and snug around your whole head. Tighten and do up the strap so that you can just press two fingers through between the buckle and your neck.
Push the helmet upwards from behind, hold your head still and attempt to move the helmet. There should be little movement available. If the helmet slides around freely or even feels like it could slip backwards or forwards, it’s too large.
Once you have found something you like, wear it for a while (if you can, without the shop keeper thinking you’re strange). This will help you to decide whether it’s too tight or if there are any uncomfortable inserts.
With the helmet on, make sure all of the vent buttons and sliders are accessible and operational.
Should I buy a second hand helmet?
Strictly speaking, no. While it is true that you can replace inserts, how can you really know the history of the helmet? It could be damaged internally. It’s really not worth the risk.
What about a motorcycle helmet from Lidl, Aldi or another discount store?
Absolutely not.
Yes it’s true that these discount stores often have excellent midweek offers on decent motorcycle gear, but would you really trust an unbranded helmet that is being handled by staff right through the international supply chain with potentially no expertise in how to handle motorcycle helmets?
How to look after a motorcycle helmet
– Keep it clean
– Be careful when using stickers – the adhesive may be corrosive to the helmet
– Keep it in a cool, dry place where it will not be damaged
– If you’ve been out riding in the rain, ensure the helmet is dry before putting it away. No one wants a mouldy, smelly helmet!
– Keep sand away from it. Trust me, it’ll never be the same again!
Top tip
If you’re buying a helmet from a dealership with them on display, make sure you receive everything that should come with the helmet as you checkout. For example, most will come with at least a pin-lock system, a drawstring bag and an owner’s manual.