An exciting experience is riding a motorbike. What makes riding so wonderful is the sensation of freedom, the wind on your face, and the sun on your skin. Yet there is also a danger, as every rider is aware.
Helmets are among the most crucial items of safety equipment for motorcycle riders. Most individuals may not comprehend the value of having a helmet that fits well or how to get the best fit.
Your head should be braced by the helmet to evenly distribute the weight. Along with moving with your head, it should also. If the helmet moves about when you shake it, it is too loose; if you feel uneasy while wearing it, it is either too small or too tight.
You could also notice that when you look up or shake your head, the helmet moves back and forth on your head. Both of these indicate that the helmet is overly big.
How to Choose the Correct Helmet
Making sure you have the appropriate helmet crucial before donning it. You will think about the following in this situation:
Helmet Fit
There is no “one size fits all” solution regarding motorcycle helmets. Try-ons are the best method to make sure your helmet fits correctly. Be sure you refer to the sizing guide and measure your head before making an online helmet purchase.
Ideally, trying the motorbike helmet at the shop is the best method to see whether it suits you. By measuring your head and using the manufacturer’s sizing guide, you should also ensure you get the correct size.
You ought to be able to choose a helmet that fits comfortably without being too tight since the majority of manufacturers provide a variety of sizes.
Shape
Manufacturers create helmets in various forms to accommodate various head shapes. The typical helmet forms are round, oval, and intermediate (sometimes called a teardrop).
The most common helmet form is oval since it may accommodate various head types. Riders with narrower or broader skulls should use intermediate or round helmets, accordingly.
Check for pressure areas while attempting on a helmet. These are places on your head where the helmet is pushing too firmly. If you locate a pressure spot, experiment with changing the padding or straps to see if it helps. If not, the helmet could not fit your head properly.
Motorcycle Helmet Types
There are many distinct styles of motorcycle helmets, each with a certain rider and use in mind. The most typical varieties are;
1. Full-Face Helmets
Full-face helmets, as their name implies, protect the whole head, including the chin and face. They provide the greatest level of protection of any form of the helmet and are mandated by law in several places.
Full-face helmets are ideal for riders who spend a lot of time on the highway since they provide the greatest wind and weather protection.
3. Open-Face Helmets
Three-quarter, or open-face, helmets protect the rider’s head but not their face. While they may not provide as much protection as full-face helmets, many riders find them more comfortable in hot weather.
Wearers of open-faced helmets should always use goggles or sunglasses to shield their eyes from the wind and flying objects.
4. Modular Helmets
Motocross White AHR RUN-M Full Face Flip Up Modular Motorbike Helmet, DOT Approved
Full-face and open-face helmets may be combined to create modular helmets. Thanks to a flip-up chin bar, the rider may eat, drink, or make phone calls while wearing one of these helmets.
Modular helmets provide adequate head and face protection but may be loud and not seal as effectively in windy circumstances as full-face helmets.
4. Off-Road Helmets
Off-road helmets, usually called motocross helmets, are made for cyclists who ride mostly off-road. They feature a visor that helps to screen out the light and debris and an extended chin bar.
Vents are a common feature in off-road helmets to aid in cooling the rider’s head.
5. ADV Dual Sport Helmets
Off-road and full-face helmets are both used in ADV dual sport helmets. They have all the characteristics of an off-road helmet and a flip-down visor that adds more wind and rain protection.
ADV dual sport helmets are a smart investment for motorcyclists who often travel on and off-road.
Care Instructions for a Motorcycle Helmet
For a motorcycle helmet to continue to provide effective protection, it is crucial to maintain it. A helmet may be cleaned most effectively with mild soap and water. Never use strong chemicals since they may deteriorate the materials and harm the helmet’s gloss.
Also, it is critical to routinely check your helmet for symptoms of deterioration. Check for any damage, such as cracks or slack cushioning. If you discover any, your helmet has to be changed.
The average helmet lasts five years. Following then, the construction’s materials may deteriorate to the point where they can no longer provide effective security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Safer to Wear a Motorcycle Helmet?
Indeed, it is safer to wear a motorbike helmet than not to. According to the CDC, wearing a helmet lowers the chance of dying by 37% and sustaining a brain injury by 69%.
How often should a motorcycle helmet be changed?
The average helmet lasts five years. Following then, the construction’s materials may deteriorate to the point where they can no longer provide effective security.
Do All States Need Me to Use a Motorbike Helmet?
While wearing a helmet when riding a motorbike is not necessarily required by law in all jurisdictions, we usually advise it. The safest approach to safeguarding your head in the case of an accident is with a helmet.
Whether a helmet is required for use, check the legislation in your state. We still advise wearing one even if there is not one.
What Makes a Motocross Helmet Different from Other Helmets?
Off-road helmets, usually called motocross helmets, are made for cyclists who ride mostly off-road. They feature a visor that helps to screen out the light and debris and an extended chin bar. Vents are a common feature in off-road helmets to aid in cooling the rider’s head.
While Donning a Full Face Helmet, What Do You Wear?
To assist in keeping your head and face warm in cold weather, we advise wearing a balaclava or neck gaiter underneath your helmet. We advise draping a cooling scarf or bandana over your neck while it is hot outside. This will keep you cool and aid in wicking away sweat.
Should I Use Goggles While Using an Open Face Helmet?
Indeed, to protect your eyes from wind and debris when wearing an open-face helmet, we always advise wearing goggles or sunglasses.
Are Helmets Flexible?
The majority of helmets will somewhat stretch with use. This is typical and makes the helmet more comfortable to wear. We advise purchasing a new helmet if you discover your current one is too loose. A loose helmet might fall off in an accident, leaving you defenseless.
How Should a Motorbike Helmet Be Stored?
Your helmet should be kept in a cool, dry location away from strong sunlight. To keep dust and debris off, we also advise covering it with a helmet bag or cover.
Conclusion
The safest strategy to protect your head in the case of an accident while riding a motorbike is to wear a helmet. The bottom edge of your helmet should lie just above your eyebrows and fit tightly around your head.
The rear of the helmet should stretch down to cover the base of your skull, and the front should rest an inch or two over your brow.
Also, if you take care of your motorcycle helmet, it will survive many years and continue providing effective protection. Replace your helmet every five years or if it becomes damaged by routine inspection for indications of wear and tear.
