The Guide to Buy a Motorcycle Helmet

How to Buy a Motorcycle Helmet

So you're thinking of buying a motorcycle helmet.  If that's the case, you can't just buy any. You have to make an informed choice first.

What makes a great motorcycle helmet?

Where can I get one?

What sort of features do you want with your helmet?

What are the various safety ratings?

What size and shape is good for me?

Should you get it online or otherwise? And so on.

In an extreme scenario, the right helmet could be the difference between life and death. In a less dramatic case, it could simply be all that you need to enjoy that ten-minute ride to the grocery store.

There are many features that come with helmet like size, weight, shape and component materials. A lot of modern helmets also come with several add-ons like wind reduction, integrated sunshade and so on. If you are a beginner, you want to keep it simple, lightweight and comfortable. That way you can acquaint yourself with what works best for you.

As for safety conditions, there are a few standards to be considered.

DOT: The US Department of Transport sets a minimum standard level of protection for helmets.

ECE2.02: The UN economic commission for Europe sets its own standard that is binding for all helmets in Europe.

Sne112010: A strict standard set in place by a non-profit in the US founded after the death of Peter Snell, a race car driver who died from head injuries in 2010.

So what are the steps that have to be taken when making this all important decision? This is the buying proper:

First, you measure your head size-you do not want a helmet that does not fit properly or is too tight.

Wrap a soft measuring tape around your head about half an inch above your eyebrows, above your ears and around the back of your head at the largest point. A pair of extra hands would be welcome in doing this as for help from a friend.

Compare your head size with the various sizes made available by the manufacturer. Each motorcycle helmet manufacturer provides different sizes of charts for the helmets so one will ensure to compare your head size to each brand's sizing.

You must try it on before you make a purchase. The helmet must sit squarely to of your head by the top of the helmet's eye port are just above your eyebrows. A helmet that fits properly will not go in easily at first, but will loosen slightly as you break into it- a little like trying on new shades or glasses.

There should be no spaces for your fingers between your head and the motorcycle helmet. A case like this should prompt you to get a smaller helmet. There should be no pressure points as well.

The shape of your head should also be taken into consideration. Remember: no pressure points. A helmet that fits one rider snugly may be uncomfortable for another. Several manufacturers make allowances for head shape with the following models:

Long Oval: These are motorcycle helmets that oblong, and longer front to back, while being narrow side to side.

Intermediate Oval: The most popular shape on offer, and closely resembles the long oval, but with a shorter front to back and wider side to side.

Round Oval: This is an oblong with a longer side to side and a shorter front to back.

These considerations for head size and head shape are both very important, and should not be overlooked. If your local retailer does not offer options that satisfy you, you can go online to look for the motorcycle helmet that suits you best.
This video will help you, too