What You Should Know About Motorcycle Helmets?
Motorcycle helmets are an essential piece of safety equipment for riders. They are designed to protect your head from impact and reduce the risk of serious injury or death. In many countries, motorcycle riders must wear a helmet while riding on public roads.
In this guide, we will discuss the different types of motorcycle helmets and what you should know about each type. We will also cover important factors to consider when choosing a motorcycle helmet and tips for proper maintenance.
What You Should Know About Motorcycle Helmets?
To answer the question “What You Should Know About Motorcycle Helmets”, here are some important things you should know about motorcycle helmets:
Types of Helmets
There are several types of motorcycle helmets available in the market. Here are the most common types:
1. Full face helmets
Full-face helmets are the most popular type of helmets that riders choose. As the name indicates, the helmet offers complete coverage to the face, jaw, and chin. These helmets come with a clear visor that protects the rider’s eyes from wind, bugs, and debris. Full-face helmets provide superior protection, and studies have shown that they are up to 25% more effective in preventing head injuries than other helmets. They are suitable for all types of riders, whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider.
2. Open face helmets
Open-face helmets are also known as 3/4 helmets and are popular among the cruiser riders. These helmets offer protection to the top and back of the head but do not provide any protection to the face, chin, and jaw. Riders can pair these helmets with goggles or a face shield to protect their eyes from the sun, wind, and insects. Open-face helmets are lightweight, and the rider can feel the breeze while riding.
3. Half helmets
Half helmets offer minimum coverage to the rider and are suitable for urban riders who prefer a minimalistic look. These helmets provide protection to the top of the head and are often paired with sunglasses. They offer minimal protection to the face, chin, and jaw and are not recommended for high-speed rides.
4. Modular helmets
Modular helmets are also known as flip-up or convertible helmets. These helmets offer complete coverage to the entire head but come with a chin bar that can flip up to offer a better view without removing the helmet. These helmets offer the best of both worlds as they offer complete protection while also allowing the rider to communicate easily with others.
5. Dual-sport helmets
Dual-sport helmets are designed for off-road riders. These helmets offer complete coverage to the head and are often paired with goggles. They come with a peak that deflects sunlight and a visor that protects the rider’s eyes. The helmet’s chin guard is removable, allowing the rider to use the helmet on or off-road.
6. Off road helmets
Off-road helmets, also known as motocross helmets, are designed for riders who love adventurous rides. These helmets offer maximum ventilation, protection, and a wider field of view. They are lightweight and designed to handle dirt tracks, jumps, and rough terrain. These helmets don’t come with a visor but are often paired with goggles to protect the rider’s eyes.
Each type of helmet has its own unique features and level of protection. It is important to choose the right type of helmet for your specific riding needs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Helmet
When selecting a motorcycle helmet, there are several important factors to take into account.
1. Safety standards
The most important factor to consider when choosing a motorcycle helmet is safety. Make sure the helmet meets safety standards such as DOT (Department of Transportation), ECE (Economic Commission for Europe) or Snell (Snell Memorial Foundation). Helmets that meet these standards have undergone rigorous testing and provide a high level of protection.
2. Fit and comfort
A helmet that fits well and is comfortable to wear is crucial. A properly fitted helmet should not be too tight or too loose, and it should stay in place during a ride. Make sure to try on different sizes and brands to find the one that fits you best.
3. Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential for riding comfortably, especially during hot weather conditions. Look for helmets with multiple vents that will allow air to flow through the helmet and keep you cool.
4. Weight
Wearing a heavy helmet on long rides can cause neck strain, which is uncomfortable. That’s why it’s important to choose a lightweight helmet that offers both protection and comfort for a pleasant journey.
5. Visor or face shield
Having a clear visor or face shield is important for visibility and protection from the elements. Make sure to choose a helmet with a good quality visor or face shield that is easily replaceable.
6. Additional features
Some helmets come with additional features such as Bluetooth communication systems, built-in sun visors, and removable liners for easy cleaning. These features can add convenience and enhance your riding experience.
Maintenance Tips for Motorcycle Helmets
Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure your helmet continues to provide maximum protection. Here are some tips to keep your helmet in top condition:
1. Regular cleaning
To clean the helmet’s exterior, use mild soap and warm water. This effectively removes dirt without harming the shell. For the interior, wipe away dirt and sweat with a damp cloth to maintain hygiene. Avoid harsh chemicals that can compromise the helmet’s integrity. Follow these steps to extend your helmet’s lifespan and performance.
2. Check for damage
To ensure your safety while engaging in activities, regularly inspect your helmet for dents, cracks, or signs of wear. By examining your helmet carefully, you can detect potential damage that may affect its effectiveness. If you notice any damage, promptly replace the helmet to continue protecting yourself and reduce the risk of accidents or injuries.
3. Replace after an accident
If you are involved in an accident, even if your helmet appears to be undamaged, it is recommended to replace it. The protective foam inside the helmet may have compressed and will not provide adequate protection in case of another accident.
4. Store properly
Always store your helmet in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid hanging or placing heavy objects on top of your helmet.
5. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper care and maintenance of your specific helmet model.
Good-To-Know Helmet Test Facts:
Besides the answer to the question “What you should know about motorcycle helmets?” and the various types of helmets, there are a few other helmet tests that you should be aware of:
1. Snell certification
Snell certification is another safety standard that some manufacturers choose to adhere to. Helmets with Snell certification undergo more rigorous testing and are considered to provide superior protection.
2. Impact absorption test
This test involves dropping a helmet onto an anvil from a specific height and measuring the impact on various parts of the helmet. The results are then compared to set standards to determine if the helmet meets safety requirements.
3. Retention test
During this test, straps and buckles are checked for strength and durability. A helmet that fails this test will not receive certification.
4. Peripheral vision test
This test measures the rider’s peripheral vision while wearing the helmet. A good helmet should provide a wide field of view without obstructing the rider’s vision.
5. Chin bar and face shield test
For helmets with chin bars and face shields, tests are conducted to ensure they can withstand impact and protect the rider’s face in case of an accident.
With this information, you are now equipped to make an informed decision when choosing a motorcycle helmet.
Conclusion
In conclusion, motorcycle helmets are a crucial piece of safety equipment for riders. When diving into the question “What you should know about motorcycle helmets?”, it is important to understand the types of helmets available and their unique features.
Consider the safety standards, fit and comfort, ventilation, weight, and additional features when choosing a helmet.
Proper maintenance is also vital to ensure your helmet continues to provide maximum protection. Always remember that wearing a helmet can save your life in case of an accident.