I was doing some research about a helmet I am considering buying. It led me to find out a bit more about testing and standards etc. I stumbled upon a 2005 article in Motorcyclist magazine that I've really found to be useful and enlightening and thought others on the forum may be interested.

Motorcycle Helmet Performance: Blowing the lid off

 

Find one that fits.

I find Arai to be very very comfortable.

I have heard many good things, and they do quite a bit of testing for their buckets.

 

i have had arai lids my whole life (albeit on the motorsports side, not for bikes) and they have been phenomenal, no complaints.

 

New standards are much smarter.

Now size specific, as well as allowing for more deformation.

Make sure you get a 2010 helmet.

 

Arai, done.

 

Arai, Shoei.

 

I stick to a new helmet every other year, up to most recent standards. Right now I have a Roof Daytona, ECE 22.05 compliant (and it's not even legal here ... not DOT). Nowhere near the finish and features of the Shoei I had previously, but I love the look and it'll keep my head safe which is concern #1.

Single most important thing to do when picking up a helmet is make sure it fits. When you buy it, you have to wonder if you really didn't buy it one size too small (it will settle), and obviously it has to fit the shape of your head.

Once you got that down, you can start wondering about standards. No point in getting an ECE 22.05 helmet if it's 2 sizes too large and moves around on your head. Even strapped down, helmets can come off.

Proper size and fit, decent standards and you're ahead of the game.
Brands just add comfort features like vents that won't allow bugs through, quick change visor, quiet ... etc etc.

 

Thanks for all the info gents.

I do have a question regarding non-approved (DOT, etc.) helmets. Although the standard of helmet worn may be technically higher than that stipulated by law, how will insurance companies treat a claim if the helmet is "illegal"?

 

Arai Justifies Costs on Vimeo

 

I am an Arai guy for both the street and motorcross style helmets. I have also worn Shoei, but my head is not made for the Shoei fit.

I do not think you can go wrong with the higher end helmets, as long as you try them on and make sure they fit your head correctly.

I had a cheapo HRC helmet for a back up at one time, in the correct size, that would not stay on well when I turned my head at speed. Basically it wanted to spin around.

Also, I have always added more padding to the cheek pieces to get a tighter fit than standard, without having to purchase the kits from Arai. Cannot stress the importance of a removable liner. Not just for cleaning but for comfort.

Wilson