Motorcycle Helmets

Selecting the Right Motorcycle Helmet

By: Nick Dinic

Having the proper safety equipment is very important when you are operating or riding on a motorcycle. While a helmet is the most important piece of safety equipment, it will only protect you if it the right type of helmet and it fits properly. Have you ever seen a young child riding on a motorcycle wearing an adult size helmet? In the event of an accident, the helmet would offer no protection to the child's skull at all.

It is very important that you try on any motorcycle helmet to ensure a proper fit. If you decide to make a purchase over the internet or from a catalog, make sure you are able to return it for a refund if it doesn't fit well. Keep in mind that each manufacturer sizes their helmets differently. Just because you currently own a size large doesn't mean that is what you will wear in a different brand. For best results through the mail or internet, measure the circumference of your head and ask them to give you the helmet dimensions. Never purchase a used motorcycle helmet because it may have been involved in an accident and it won't protect you as it was designed to.

For the best results, try on motorcycle helmets with any accessories you will generally have while riding. For example, many women like to have their hair in a ponytail but may have it straight while trying on a helmet. If you wear prescription glasses while operating your motorcycle, then make sure you take them with you when you are trying on helmets.

A motorcycle helmet needs to fit very securely. Make sure it surrounds your entire head. The chin straps are adjustable but put them in place to ensure you can get them tight enough to fit your face shape. You should also try on the same brand of helmet in one size larger and one size smaller just to make sure you do in fact have the best fitting helmet for your head. For added comfort, consider getting a motorcycle helmet that offers air vents. You can easily slide them opened or closed to allow more air to circulate while wearing it.

You will find motorcycle helmets made from a variety of materials. For the best in safety and quality, choose one that is made from organic fiberglass and layers of carbon fibers. This combination creates a very powerful shock absorbent shell. You also want to make sure the liner features a three layer system. This will offer you additional shock absorption.

If you plan to ride your motorcycle a great deal, consider getting a motorcycle helmet that allows you to easily change the visor. This is a great option for riding during the day and the night. Make sure the visors are fog resistant and offer impact resistance.

Investing in a quality helmet that offers the protection you need while riding a motorcycle isn't going to be cheap, but it may well be one of the most important investments you make in your life. Statistics show that motorcycle riders who wear a helmet have a 35% less chance of suffering from a head injury. You can fit a helmet that fits well and even have it custom painted to match your motorcycle.


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Five Styles of Motorcycle Helmet and Customization Ideas

By: Brian Benko

Now that you have your motorcycle, it's time to start shopping for the perfect motorcycle helmet. Several different styles exist, so why not check them all out before making a final choice? The helmet you choose goes a long way in showing off your personal sense of style.

Full Helmet

Full face motorcycle helmets cover the entire head. In the back, they cover down to the base of the skull and wrap around to protect the jaw and chin in the front. A plastic face shield rests over the eye and nose area and generally can be lifted to expose the rider's face.

Most full helmets come with built in airflow vents, but they can still be warm inside. They may also reduce hearing because the padding and shell covers the ears. Full helmets are the most protective type of motorcycle helmet available.

Full helmets are also one of the most popular styles for people with whom safety is the main concern. Since they cover more area, they are also the heaviest, and the most likely to cause neck fatigue.

Three-Quarters Helmet

Open face, or three-quarter (three-fourths) motorcycle helmets cover the back of the skull and the ears, but do not surround the lower chin or include a face shield. This type allows increased air flow, hearing and improves peripheral vision. Some open face helmets include a visor in various tints and colors to block out the sun.

Even with a partial visor, goggles or wraparound sunglasses may be necessary to protect the rider's eyes. Open face motorcycle helmets are as affective in rear protection as full face helmets, but not as effective in face coverage.

Half Helmet

Half helmets are similar to three quarter helmets, with the main difference being a cropped back. This type provides the minimum amount of coverage that is allowed by law in many areas of the US. Most half helmets will require the use of goggles or sunglasses to protect your eyes from wind and debris when riding.

Women's Helmet

Female riders have tons of options for head protection. In addition to traditional helmets, there are specially designed women's helmets for riders who want to look chic, polished and feminine. Women's motorcycle helmets combine style, color and flair with safety for a tough elegance. Choosing a helmet that fits your style is a great way to ride in comfort while still expressing your personality.

Children's Helmets

If your child will be a passenger on a motorcycle, it is a good idea to buy them their own motorcycle helmet. Helmets come in a variety of youth sizes, and proper fit and sizing are important for keeping your child safe from harm. It's best to visit a local helmet dealer to have an expert help you find the youth motorcycle helmet that will perfectly fit your child's head. Before buying a helmet for your child, make sure to check your local motorcycle laws to ensure that your child is allowed and properly outfitted to ride.

Custom Helmets

Any type of helmet you choose can be customized to fit your personal style. Vintage and personally commissioned motorcycle helmets are available, as well as different trends in style. Off the shelf helmets are easily customizable with decals, motorcycle stickers or airbrushing.

No matter what type of helmet you decide to purchase, make sure to check local laws before making a purchase, and always go to the store to try helmets on. If possible, wear it for a few minutes to make sure it's comfortable and the fit is right. If it is too loose, wind can enter the helmet while you're riding and pull it off your head. If the helmet is too tight, it can be very uncomfortable for extended wear.


Author Resource:->  Brian Benko at MotorcycleHelmet offers the best ideas and information about in motorcycle helmets. Visit MotorcycleHelmet for the latest on motorcycle helmets. Buy or sell your custom helmet at http://www.motorcyclehelmet.com/

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How to Know if a Motorcycle Helmet Fits Correctly

By: Brian Benko

There is no denying the importance of motorcycle helmets for the safety of riders. It is important to note, however that all helmets are not created equal. The issue has to do with more than just comfort. Two persons who seem to have the same sized head may not get the same fit from a helmet. It stands to reason that before purchasing one, a proper fit must be ensured.

Sizing a Motorcycle Helmet

Just as our heads have different shapes and sizes the padding of motorcycle helmets also varies. Differences may be based on the brand of helmet, the type of material used, and the design. With so many different types of motorcycle gear on the market, helmet sizes vary from brand to brand. There are certain pointers which will help you to determine if the helmet you want to purchase is your best fit. These are:

The first thing to do is measure your head. If you already know your hat size, you're ahead of the curve. Using a tape measure, take the measurement around your head. Start at the center of the forehead 1-inch above the eyebrows. Run the tape around the back of the head. Make sure to measure at the point at which it protrudes the most to get the best measurement. Then bring the tape measure back around to meet the end at the center of your forehead.

The helmet should have a size tag on the inside. Try to match this to the measurement you got with the tape measure. Even after finding a helmet with the right size, the fit may not seem right. Depending on the brand and style you may have to go up or down a size to get the right fit.

Test for Fit

When you choose a motorcycle helmet, make sure that the top edge at the front is above the eyebrows so it doesn't obstruct your vision. The padding should rest just on the bone that supports your eyebrows. Shields and visors should not obstruct vision in any way.

Using your hands, rock the helmet back and forth to see how much play it has. Also repeat the movement from side to side while keeping your head as steady as possible. It should be reasonably snug but not too tight. Be sure to use a mirror when doing this as this will give you a better sense of how well it fits.

Fasten the chin strap and try to lift the helmet off. If it come off then this clearly means that you could be in trouble in the event of a collision. Try going down a size and then repeat the procedure. A properly fitting helmet should not be removed once the chin strap is fastened.

Shop Online for Motorcycle Helmets

Some people choose to buy their motorcycle helmets online. While there is nothing wrong with getting motorcycle gear from websites, buying helmets can be a hit or miss situation. Any website you want to purchase form should have a size chart which will make the process much easier. Even so, there is still a small chance of getting the wrong size since you won't be able to try it on.

When buying your first motorcycle helmet, the tendency may be to go for a slightly loose fit. Some people find the initial snug feel a bit uncomfortable. Remember that there is a breaking in period, and after a while you will get used to the feel of the helmet. Your choice of helmet will also depend on your motorcycle.

For high speed bikers, the only real option is a full face helmet. With its protective visor, your eyes and face will be protected from bugs and debris. For off-roaders the motocross or off-road helmet is the best option.

Half helmets are generally considered suitable for short distances. The downside to this option is that it can come off in a collision. Motorcycle safety is an important issue, and every rider must take the appropriate steps to protect themselves in the event of an accident.


Author Resource:->  Brian Benko at MotorcycleHelmet offers the best ideas and information about in motorcycle helmets. Visit MotorcycleHelmet for the latest on motorcycle helmets. Buy or sell your custom helmet at http://www.motorcyclehelmet.com/

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Customize Your Motorcycle Helmet to Reflect Your Style

By: Brian Benko

Nothing compares to the thrill of the open road. A motorcycle ride is one of the most freeing, relaxing and exhilarating experiences a person could ever imagine. Not all bikes are created equally. Some bikes are made for speed while others are built for comfort and long rides.

Riders are just as varied as the bikes they love. Where one rider may enjoy the speed and thrill of the ride, another may prefer cruising and enjoying the scenery. No matter what type of rider you are or the gear you prefer, your helmet is the most important consideration in terms of safety.

Motorcycle Gear

Most motorcycle gear looks the same. Leather jackets, pants and gloves come in a variety of colors and styles but are rarely fully customizable. The most you can do to customize your motorcycle gear without having it custom made is add decals. Helmets on the other hand can be fully customized very easily.

Customized Motorcycle Helmets

Helmet customization allows each rider to express their own sense of style or to take pride in something. For years, bikers have participated in extensive rides to raise money for children's charities and other important events. The money they've raised has saved many lives and gone a long way in promoting research for certain causes.

Some bikers sport customized helmets that reflect their achievements and the causes they promote when they ride. Pink, blue and yellow ribbons often adorn helmets when bikers are riding to support cancer research or military troops overseas. Some bikers simply like to show off their artistic flair.

Helmet Customization Ideas

State Colors: Show off the pride you feel for your home state or country with a helmet that displays the flag or colors that represent it. State mottos like "Sweet Home Alabama" or "Virginia is for Lovers" are great ways to show your support for your home state. Murals enhance the overall look of the helmet.

Names: Tattoos are a great way to show your love and dedication to someone. If you're the type of biker who would rather avoid needles, have the name of your love or your children painted on your helmet. People understand the love and pride a biker has in their helmet.

Airbrushed Murals: Bikers often have murals painted on their motorcycle. Consider an airbrushed mural that includes your motorcycle gear and your helmet. Bright colors also make the helmet more visible during the day and at night.

Memorial: Pay a wonderful tribute to someone special by painting a memorial message on your head gear. Airbrushed photographs and poems are a beautiful way to remember one you've lost and share valuable information with others you come across. After all, a picture paints a thousand words.

Fantasy: Fairies, wolves, skulls and dragons are the most commonly used fantasy characters for motorcycle gear. A great artist can capture the exact image you want and transfer that character to your motorcycle helmet.

Motorcycle Laws

Only four states in the United States have no laws regarding head gear for motorcyclists. Most states require helmets for all riders over the age of 16. Eye protection is also required in most states and should be taken into consideration for the safety of the rider. Bugs and debris can fly into the rider's eyes and cause serious injury or accidents leading to injury.

Proper head protection and eye protection should always be seriously considered by everyone planning a trip on a motorcycle. Double check your state's motorcycle laws to make sure you're riding within the law. It's always better to be safe than sorry.

Some states allow earphones so you may listen to music or use your cell phone while riding. Cell phones should always be on auto-answer with a reliable earphone to minimize the attention they require. If you're unsure about your state's laws, contact the local department of motor vehicles or a law enforcement officer for details.


Author Resource:->  Brian Benko at MotorcycleHelmet offers the best ideas and information about in motorcycle helmets. Visit MotorcycleHelmet for the latest on motorcycle helmets. Buy or sell your custom helmet at http://www.motorcyclehelmet.com/

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Four Tips on How to Choose the Perfect Motorcycle Helmet

By: Brian Benko

Whether you're in the market for your first motorcycle helmet or just for a new, updated version, many factors exist in finding the perfect choice. Comfort, safety, convenience and fit are all important when choosing motorcycle gear. After all, the safest motorcycle gear you can buy is the gear you will wear.

The Perfect Fit

One of the most important steps in choosing a helmet is trying it on for size. Effectiveness and safety are largely dependent on making sure the fit is correct. Make sure that the helmet fits snugly. If you find a style or design you like, but the fit is not quite right, ask about other padding options. Many times, you can adjust the fits by adding or changing padding inside the helmet.

When judging fit, also to pay close attention to the chin strap. The strap should fit comfortably. It should be tight, but not uncomfortable, around your ears and under your chin. The strap should be adjusted so that the helmet doesn't shift back and forth or from side to side on your head.

Your motorcycle helmet should sit low on the forehead, with the edge just above the eyebrow. If you're not sure if it is sitting correctly, have a salesperson or experienced friend look at it for you. When shopping for your first helmet, consider a visit to a specialty store where employees can help you figure out the best fit.

Ride in Comfort

An uncomfortable motorcycle helmet can totally ruin your riding experience. The best way to find the most comfortable fit is to try on multiple styles before making a choice. With something designed to fit so tightly, comfort can be tricky, but is also very important to making your rides pleasant and fun. Don't be discouraged if it takes visiting a few stores to find the right fit.

Several factors contribute to helmet comfort. Make sure the padding is soft and in constant contact with your head. The padding should create a solid seal around your ears that doesn't cover the entire ear. It should also feature a neck roll that cradles the back of your head.

A good fitting helmet may seem tight when you try it on and try to shift it on your head. There are foam shells inside that seal out wind and noise which are smaller than the actual shell. You never want a helmet to shift around on your head, snug fitting helmets help prevent neck injuries.

Safe and Sound

Comfort is important, but safety should be your top priority. In the US, there are only four states that are 100 percent free of motorcycle helmet laws. Twenty states have full motorcycle helmet laws, and 19 more have laws for riders over 18.

One way to make sure you're complying with the law is to purchase head gear that is DOT approved, or that meets a standard like the Snell certification. The Snell Memorial Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps develop and test safety standards. By considering these guidelines, you will ensure your head gear is reliable and tested.

Another way to get information is to search for reviews online or in magazines and learn about the motorcycle helmet crash tests. Ask experienced riders about their head gear of choice and why they chose it as their favorite. Extensive research will help you make the most informed decision possible.

Considering Cost

"You get what you pay for" is a common saying for a reason. In choosing a motorcycle helmet, it's best not to just go for the cheapest option you can find. Instead of looking for the least expensive, search for a good deal. Decide before making a choice what your price range is, then look for the best helmet within your price range.

Do your research. Try several on for fit, and consider investing the maximum amount you can afford. An investment in a good motorcycle helmet is also an investment in your enjoyment and safety.


Author Resource:->  Brian Benko at MotorcycleHelmet offers the best ideas and information about in motorcycle helmets. Visit MotorcycleHelmet for the latest on motorcycle helmets. Buy or sell your custom helmet at http://www.motorcyclehelmet.com/

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