For all the offroad riding enthusiasts Shoei has an exclusive range of motocross apparel and high end motorcycle helmets for exciting riding action. The collection of motocross helmets from Shoei is available in a vast array of designs and styles to choose from.
Full face coverage motocross helmets
Shoei has an exclusive collection of motocross helmets designed for full face coverage. The Dual Sport or DS collections are especially popular and come under the Hornet collection. These stunning ranges of motorcycle helmets are available in colors like black, crystal white, matte black, light silver as well as a deep silver grey. The Shoei motocross helmets in Multitec ranges are also extremely popular and come in colors ranging from blue, black, crystal white, pearl grey, matte black, silky white and numerous others. The other popular collection of such motorcycle helmets is the Shoei RF-1000 Anthracite helmet collection. It is available in 3x, 2x, large, medium, small, extra large, extra small sizes etc. It is also available in beautiful color combinations like blue, red, black etc.
Offroad helmets
Shoei has an amazing collection of motocross helmets exclusively designed for adults. Their collections of motorcycle helmets come in vibrant colors like crystal white, black, light silver, matte deep grey, matte black, pulse black and several other exciting combinations. The collection of V-MOTO and V-MT motocross helmets is especially popular amongst all offroad riding enthusiasts. The range is available in colors like Afterburn white, black and blue. There are also variations in colors like Holeshot Blue, red, Matte Black, Metal Mulisha, Pulse Blue, Pulse White, Pure Orange, Status Black and many other choices. The vibrant colors and innovative styling is sure to make these motorcycle helmets a collection to truly covet.
Half face coverage helmets
Shoei also has a range of motocross helmets designed to provide protection for half of the face. The Shoei ST-CRUZ ½ collection of motorcycle helmets is truly exciting and innovative. These are available in sizes like 2x, large, medium, small, extra large and many other sizes. The collection is largely available in black color variants such as matte black, plain black, deep grey etc. However, if you want to be a little more adventurous in terms of your color preferences you could also opt for their motocross helmets in white and wine colors.
Open face helmets
For those riding enthusiasts who do not like any coverage on their faces Shoei also has a range of motocross helmets which do not have any face coverage at all. The Shoei J-Wing collection of motorcycle helmets is truly unconventional and yet offers all the protection any rider would want. Available in colors like black, white, light silver, matte black, grey and silky white these collections of motorcycle helmets offer protection and a high degree of style as well. Having been tested under the most rigorous conditions and tough terrains these motocross helmets can withstand any jolt and impact with ease. The usage of high quality materials on the exterior also makes these extremely durable.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Shoei Motocross Helmets - High End Offroad Apparel and MX Gear
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Carbon Fiber Helmets
Carbon fiber helmets have become very popular in today’s motorcycle world. The reasons for that popularity are easy to understand. Carbon fiber helmets tend to have a distinctive look and that look has become fashionable. Carbon fiber helmets are lighter and their shells are more durable than other helmets for carbon fiber helmets often make use of a combination of Kevlar and carbon fibers and this combination produces helmet shells that are as strong as they would be if they were made out of metal. This is an attractive feature for many buyers of carbon fiber helmets and the caché that attaches to Kevlar, a material used in military helmets, constitutes a strong selling point.
However, there is a caution in order with respect to the issue of the relationship of carbon fiber helmets to head protection. In motorcycle helmets, including carbon fiber helmets, the heart of the protection system is the liner—usually made of Styrofoam or a Styrofoam-like material—not the shell. This is so because the shell material absorbs the impact energy that arises from a motorcycle accident and thereby prevents that energy from doing destructive damage to the head. It is the energy absorption, not energy resistance, that protects the head from trauma. Put another way, if one were to wear a motorcycle helmet carved out of a solid block of steel, that helmet would be less effective in protecting against head injury than would a helmet made entirely out of Styrofoam. This is counter-intuitive, but, nonetheless true. Safety, if not the only reason for purchasing a motorcycle helmet, is by the far the most important reason for such a purchase and carbon fiber helmets do not increase safety to any great degree. They make the helmet itself less prone to the effects of wear and tear, but it is the liner inside the carbon fiber helmet’s shell that is the most effective safety component of the system.
Nor is the technology used to make carbon fiber helmets particularly advanced. The carbon fibers that go into the shells are made by subjecting certain acrylics to great heat. When combined with other materials, these fibers produce materials that are extraordinarily tough, but, once again, it should be mentioned that because the surfaces of carbon fiber helmets are extraordinarily strong, this does not mean that they better protect the head than do more traditional materials, such as fiberglass, that are used in the making of motorcycle helmet shells.
It is to be noted that some carbon fiber helmets are not, legally speaking, “motorcycle helmets” at all, but rather, they are “novelty helmets” or “beanies,” helmets which do not meet the standards for U.S. Department of Transportation (D.O.T.) certification. This points to the fact that purchasers of carbon fiber helmets should always look for the D.O.T. sticker that is placed on the back of the shell of helmets that do meet D.O.T. standards. There is certainly nothing wrong with carbon fiber helmets per se and their light weight and fashionable looks make them desirable. But carbon fiber helmets do not guarantee better safety. Carbon fiber helmets constitute the use of a technology that is ancillary, not central, to the issue of safety and the smart consumer will purchase carbon fiber helmets if, and only if, they are D.O.T. and/or Snell certified for safety.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Arai Motocross Helmets - 2009 MX Gear From Arai
The fine collection of motocross helmets is highly popular with motocross riders even to this day. Although the brand started manufacturing motorcycle helmets many decades ago their durability and class sets them apart till today.
Motocross helmets
The collection of motorcycle helmets from Arai is especially designed for adults. The VX Pro is one of the most popular and sought after styles today. It comes in a wide range of colors such as blue, orange, silver, red, black and many other exciting color combinations. Each of these motocross helmets comes with a guarantee for the best fit in the market. Focusing on comfort for the motocross rider Arai has manufactured these super comfort fitting motorcycle helmets. The inner liner of these motocross helmets is cool and dry and extremely lightweight. In fact, they promise that it is so lightweight that the rider won’t even know he is wearing a helmet! The presence of a Hypershark II Peak along with an adjustable forced air intake makes this helmet truly a must-have. The dry cool lining is completely detachable and helps provide more moisture and removal of heat inside. The cheek pads of these motorcycle helmets are also detachable to provide for a customized form fit. The helmets also come with a roost deflector which is an optional attachment. In order to prevent any kind of digging or snagging the chinbar region has a smooth radius. A controlled ventilation mechanism along with CLC fiberglass composites helps facilitate the usage of lightweight lining materials inside the motocross helmets. The central vent shape of the chinbar is also ergonomically designed for maximum comfort. The side exhaust vents are large in the chinbar area and these motorcycle helmets all exceed recommended D.O.T. and Snell standards and regulations.
Motocross accessories
Arai also has an interesting collection of motocross accessories especially for the motorcycle helmets they manufacture. The Arai VX-Pro visor comes in green and white colors and is made of highly resistant and durable composite materials. It is also priced very reasonably to make it easy for even beginner motocross riders to purchase these high quality visors.
Tools and miscellaneous gear
Arai is also famous for their well known collections of crossbar pads, grips and gear bags. For example each of their crossbar pad motocross accessories has been designed keeping in mind the durability aspect as well as comfort fit for the wearer. Their washing boxes are also very popular especially as these help to prevent water accumulation inside the carburetor. Their gear bags have interesting color choices and combinations such as red and black, silver and white and many others. The collection of handlebars and grip motorcycle accessories is also a huge favorite amongst all motocross riders. These come with high tensile materials as well as great rubber grips that provide a sturdy hold on the handlebars. So, if you are looking for the very best in motocross accessories then Arai is the brand you need to shop for.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Full Face Motorcycle Helmets For Riders
Looking for full face helmets can be a challenge. There are many choices available for you with hundreds of makers creating designs that would have you attracted instantly when you see them. But more than their striking features, full face motorcycle helmets are used for a purpose. They are manufactured and made in order to protect your head from serious injuries that may arise from a motorcycle accident.
A full face motorcycle helmet is designed to cover the whole head. Its rear extension covers the base of the skull while the front portion aims to protect the chin. Each full face motorcycle helmet is equipped with a plastic face shield (which can be clear or tinted) that rests over the cutout eyes and nose section to as protection from glare and the effects of wind at high speeds. This face shield is usually retractable to allow access to the face if pushed up.
Most full face motorcycle helmets provide airflow vents to provide necessary ventilation to the helmets interiors, which can get hot. Paddings inside the helmets are also used not just for comfort but also to block outside noise. But not all seem to like using this type of motorcycle helmet.
There are a lot of critics complaining of heat, poor airflow, claustrophobic sensation and reduced hearing when wearing such helmets. Despite all these sensory drawbacks, a full face motorcycle helmet boasts a high rate of head protection; hence it is more popular than a 3/4 motorcycle helmet or open face helmet. Safety conscious riders prefer it to half motorcycle helmets.
Choosing a helmet that perfectly suits your head and your riding experience is as important as being safety conscious. A properly fitted motorcycle helmet would assure you of total protection and safety. A badly fitted one would surely compromise the safety features of your helmet and may not be able to protect you more effectively. Here are some tips that will help you find a motorcycle helmet that would be perfect for you.
Try on motorcycle helmets for at least five minutes so that you may be able to detect bothersome areas. See yourself the mirror with the helmet on to check for symmetry. This will ensure that the helmet rests just above your brows and to see if any red marks remain after you take off the helmet.
Try to observe motorcycle helmet safety standards when you look for your motorcycle helmets. Be aware of how motorcycle helmets are being certified for safety and protection. This will help save you the trouble in the long run. If a cheap motorcycle helmet you come upon has not been Snell certified, or is not a DOT approved motorcycle helmet, your insurance company may refuse to provide accident coverage.
After you have bought your motorcycle helmet, avoid storing it in a high or unsteady place where it could come crashing to the ground. Refrain from placing your helmets in the motorcycle saddle or the side mirrors. This can damage the interior padding which can compromise your helmet’s protective features. Don't risk scratching or busting an expensive motorcycle helmet, which can be costly on your part.
Friday, April 2, 2010
5 Tips For Buying Cheap Motorcycle Helmets Online
If you are in the market for a new motorcycle helmet then this is the article for you. I live, eat, sleep and breathe motorcycles of all shapes and sizes and as such I have had the chance to learn a few tips and tricks about being able to save money on the gear.
Tip 1:
You can save a TON of money by buying online but getting the fit right can be difficult. I would suggest that you browse the helmet selections at the motorcycle shop to find the "fit" and "size" that you like and then go shopping online for it. Helmet fit is too important to your long term comfort and satisfaction with your helmet.
This tip only applies to noobs as most seasoned riders already know what size they take in a number of brands. At the very least make sure you measure your head and pay attention to the sizing charts for the brand of helmet you are interested in buying. Don't just check a generic sizing chart...go to the website of the manufacturer and check your measurements against their chart. Believe me, buying a helmet online is worth the effort.
Tip 2:
Once you have found a suitable helmet and you know what size you need then browse online at Ebay. In most cases you can save at least 20-30% online than you will versus a motorcycle shop and in many cases it will be even more than that. You can often buy a more expensive motorcycle helmet at cheap motorcycle helmets prices if you shop wisely.
In fact you can save so much money buying cheap motorcycle helmets online that you could probably afford to have more than one. Cool.
Tip 3:
Be armed with information! In many cases if you can save even more money on motorcycle helmets if they are last seasons colors or the racer that represents that brand has changed colors or changed teams. Last years models are typically every bit as hot and groundbreaking to most of us as the latest and greatest but they are even more attractive when you can buy them at cheap motorcycle helmets prices.
Tip 4:
Search the web for motorcycle helmet reviews and get more opinions on the particular motorcycle helmet that you are interested in. It is worthwhile to invest a small amount of time to make sure their aren't any hidden quirks or weird nuances that show themselves a few months down the road of ownership. Even cheap motorcycle helmets are worth investing a small amount of time researching.
Tip 5:
Last but not least, even though we are all in favor or buying cheap motorcycle helmets, buy the highest quality helmet you can afford. You don't have a $50 dollar brain and you shouldn't trust your brain to a $50 dollar helmet. Make sure your helmet carries DOT certification and SNELL where possible as these ensure a certain level of quality in that helmet. Cheap Motorcycle Helmets are great but you still want a quality motorcycle helmet that will do it's job if necessary.
I could go on but I am sure you are anxious to start your research so I will let you go. Be well and keep the shiny side up so you won't need that helmet for anything other than to keep your hair in place.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Full Face Helmets Are The Best
If you love to ride a motorcycle, either as the driver or the passenger, there are probably many reasons that you’re an enthusiast. After all, riding a motorbike is one of the most liberating experiences that can be enjoyed on a regular basis. You love the freedom that you get from riding a motorcycle, and the brotherhood. But like many riders, you might also worry about safety.
For those riders for whom safety is a top concern, full face motorcycle helmets are a great buy. As much fun as riding a motorcycle can be, it can also be very dangerous. The worst part is it might not even be something that you do, but what drivers of other vehicles may do that inadvertently hurts you. Full face helmets are a great way to maximize your protection, they have many built in safety features and protections. They can also look really cool while you’re riding.
There are many different levels of full face motorcycle helmets. They can be as inexpensive at seventy dollars, or can cost as much as 400. Much of what differs is in the optional features. Recently helmet manufacturers have gone above and beyond to make sure that their helmets are safer than they have ever been. Not only that, they are constantly striving to make their helmets cool looking to match the style of both you and your bike.
When you’re looking for full face motorcycle helmets, there are some features which are standard. Do remember that you should only buy a helmet if it meets Department of Transportation guidelines. DOT is a safety standard that should be a minimum when buying your full face helmet. To really step the safety up a notch, consider a SNELL rated helmet. They will definitely cost more, but the difference will be in the safety levels maintained in the construction process.
A great reason that a full face helmet offers protection is how much coverage you get. Your head, both the top and sides, and your chin are protected. This helps to minimize damage from falls. Just having the full protection on all sides of your head will make a huge difference if ever there is the situation where a wreck occurs. It could literally be the difference between walking away from a wreck or not walking at all.
In many full face motorcycle helmets, you get the added benefit of shock absorption found in layers in the helmet. In the event of a fall or crash, this will help to stabilize and cushion you.
Many full face helmets also come standard with UV resistant face shields. This helps to protect your eyes from sun damage, while the shield is also protecting you from rocks and weather. Shields for full face helmets are very easy to change out, so you can have one shield that is tinted or mirrored for daytime riding and then another set of shields that are used for night driving. Some full face helmets can be used in snow and have special shields made for snow use. So they can truly be versatile and meed most of your safety and style needs while riding.
If you’re interested in a high level of protection, invest in a full face motorcycle helmet. It has many features and benefits not found in other helmets, and will help to keep you safe while you’re riding.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Looking For Discount Motorcycle Helmets
If you are looking for discount motorcycle helmet choices, it would be good to look for them at helmet specialty shops and stores. But be very sure that every discount motorcycle helmet that you chance upon should be up to safety standards. Do not buy motorcycle helmets just by the price offered but also by the level of protection that it can provide. There are discount motorcycle helmets that are up to the job, it is just a matter of finding them.
You must bear in mind that a motorcycle helmet is a very important element of the motorcycle riding experience. They are not used merely for aesthetic reasons but for safety reasons as well. A motorcycle helmet enhances your riding experience to a fun and secure level. A badly chosen helmet may not fit you or work for you properly, thereby lessening your riding experience.
Choosing a motorcycle helmet can be difficult for most people. Even the most experienced riders can have a difficult time finding one that they would find suitable for their needs. One of the key issues faced by most riders is the fit of the motorcycle helmet. Riders have different helmet shapes and forms to check out. Not all of them may be able to fit suitably for everyone.
There are full face helmets that offer full head and face protection for riders but may not be able to fit properly for some riders. Then there are also open faced helmets as well as half helmets that offer a more comfortable fit for most people but offer less protection if used in the absence of goggles and sunglasses which can help protect the eyes.
Another key reason for choosing a motorcycle helmet is the style and appeal. Aesthetic value is what makes some helmets more popular than others. The technology being used in designing them can even become the reason why such helmets are preferred by most. Attractive colors and striking graphic designs can also provide helmets with good saleability. Price also is important to some people when choosing a helmet.
If you cannot find a good helmet that would best fit or appeal to your tastes, you can always have one custom made. This way, not only will you be getting the helmet looks that you want, you can also have them custom made to be more comfortable to give you a more enhanced riding experience. No matter what helmet you choose, just make sure that you always put safety and protection on top of your list when you do your choices.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
DOT Motorcycle Helmets – What Are They?
The Department of Transportation in the world of motorcycling is referred to as the DOT. This organization has made it a rule that all motorcycle helmets must be checked and tasted on grounds of safety before use. The DOT performs a check on all helmets and labels only those which meet its security requirements. If you have a motorcycle and are thinking about buying a helmet, look for the DOT tag on it. If that is missing, think again. You don’t want to get into trouble with the law on grounds of using an illegal helmet. Helmets that have not passed the DOT test are simply not safe enough. They won’t go very far in protecting you from injury, in case of an emergency or an accident.
How to Identify a DOT Helmet?
We have for a near-exhaustive list of points, you need to check in order to understand which a DOT approved helmet is and which is not. After you have gone through this, you can find DOT helmets very easily:
o First, check for the DOT sticker. You should find it at the back of the helmet, towards the bottom, at about the middle of the helmet.
o In addition to the sticker, there should be a DOT label sewn to the inside of the helmet.
o The label’s location is important. It should be in a place from where it cannot be torn off easily.
o The DOT sticker should carry some basic information. This includes the name or logo of the helmet manufacturer, manufacturing date, and size of the helmet, model number or name and a list of components that have gone into the making of the motorcycle helmet.
o If you don’t find these details on the sticker, or if one or more of these features are missing, your best bet would be not to buy the helmet.
DOT Benefits
With the DOT ranking, a consumer can test the safety standards of the helmet they are purchasing. You don’t have to take the dealer’s word for the safety of the helmet. You can judge it for yourself. We have just listed all the criteria for you.
DOT Helmet Testing Procedure:
Let’s talk a bit about the process of ranking helmets and how DOT goes about it.
o An impact test is an obvious part of the procedure. A headpiece is inserted inside the helmet.
o Next, the helmet is dropped from a height of about ten feet. A human head can survive if it receives a G-force of 400 units on impact. It cannot take any more than that. A G-force is the gravitational force exerted on objects in free fall. Helmets that can protect the headpiece in this condition are labeled.
o Manufacturers don’t need to test their products all over again after it has received a DOT sticker.
o A manufacturer is free to sell any of his helmets that are DOT rated.
A DOT rating ensures that the helmet you are buying is of great quality and durability. The DOT rating will make sure that what you are buying will protect you to a great extent.
Looking For Discount Motorcycle Helmets
If you are looking for discount motorcycle helmet choices, it would be good to look for them at helmet specialty shops and stores. But be very sure that every discount motorcycle helmet that you chance upon should be up to safety standards. Do not buy motorcycle helmets just by the price offered but also by the level of protection that it can provide. There are discount motorcycle helmets that are up to the job, it is just a matter of finding them.
You must bear in mind that a motorcycle helmet is a very important element of the motorcycle riding experience. They are not used merely for aesthetic reasons but for safety reasons as well. A motorcycle helmet enhances your riding experience to a fun and secure level. A badly chosen helmet may not fit you or work for you properly, thereby lessening your riding experience.
Choosing a motorcycle helmet can be difficult for most people. Even the most experienced riders can have a difficult time finding one that they would find suitable for their needs. One of the key issues faced by most riders is the fit of the motorcycle helmet. Riders have different helmet shapes and forms to check out. Not all of them may be able to fit suitably for everyone.
There are full face helmets that offer full head and face protection for riders but may not be able to fit properly for some riders. Then there are also open faced helmets as well as half helmets that offer a more comfortable fit for most people but offer less protection if used in the absence of goggles and sunglasses which can help protect the eyes.
Another key reason for choosing a motorcycle helmet is the style and appeal. Aesthetic value is what makes some helmets more popular than others. The technology being used in designing them can even become the reason why such helmets are preferred by most. Attractive colors and striking graphic designs can also provide helmets with good saleability. Price also is important to some people when choosing a helmet.
If you cannot find a good helmet that would best fit or appeal to your tastes, you can always have one custom made. This way, not only will you be getting the helmet looks that you want, you can also have them custom made to be more comfortable to give you a more enhanced riding experience. No matter what helmet you choose, just make sure that you always put safety and protection on top of your list when you do your choices.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Motorcycle Helmets: The Statistics
When you go for a ride on your motorcycle, you’re out to have fun. And hey, you’ve never had a crash before, so why would it happen now? Here are the government statistics about motorcycle helmets.
A brief history of the Law
In 1967, the US federal government said that it would take away funding from any state that didn’t have a helmet law. By 1975, 47 states had complied with the federal government. However, in 1976, they repealed the law, ruling it unconstitutional. Most states softened their helmet laws.
Kentucky and Louisiana
In the late 1990s, Kentucky and Louisiana repealed their helmet laws. While the helmet laws were in effect, nearly 100% of the people wore their helmets. When the laws came off the books, it fell to only half of people wearing helmets. The rate of fatalities per number of registered motorcycles rose 37% in Kentucky, and it rose a staggering 74% in Louisiana.
Don’t mess with Texas
Similarly to Kentucky and Louisiana, Texas took its helmet law off the books in 1997 for riders 21 or older who have insurance or training. Helmet use dropped from 96% to 66%, and motorcycle related deaths went up 1/3rd. This means that the death rates corresponds almost directly to the proportion of people who do not wear helmets.
Florida’s Example
Florida repealed its helmet law in 2000. From 1997-1999 (three years while the law was in place) 515 motorcycle riders were killed in crashes; 48 of those deaths were people not wearing helmets. From 2001-2003 (three years after the law was created) there were 933 motorcycle riders killed in crashes; 566 of these were not wearing their helmet.
What we can learn from this is that more people die when helmet use becomes optional. There were roughly 400 deaths in each three year period of people who wear helmets. However, the rate of people who died not wearing helmets went up more than 10 times. This is not coincidental.
Helmet Law Defense League
The Helmet Law Defense League is a group of people who lobby against laws requiring the use of helmets. They claim that it anti-constitutional to force people to wear helmets. They also argue that the word “helmet” is too vague.
Bells and Whistles
Even if you don’t choose to wear a motorcycle helmet for safety reasons, there are other reasons. The face guard allows you to see more clearly and prevents damage to your eyes when you go at high speeds. It also offers ear protection. Some helmets can be equipped with intercoms so you can communicate with your friends while you’re on your bike.
The Source
The mortality rate statistics are taken directly from The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The figures can be accessed through their annual reports, and some are available on their websites.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Safety Motorcycle Helmets
Motorcycle helmet is used as a protective gear for the head to avoid severe injuries brought about by accidents. In some countries, wearing helmet is comparable to wearing seatbelts, regulated as part of the street ordinances as general safety measure. But of course, any promulgation imposed is debatable and others would drop the matter in every philosophical manner they can give reason against its use.
Looking at the physical make-up of motorcycles will not guarantee pure salvation in every imaginable trauma. When used, it can only lessen the severity. To have an understanding on its function it is important to know how fatal head injuries can disable a person in one incident. When it comes to serious matters like heavy impact, a helmet is nothing. The most important thing about skull fractures is to avoid the fragments from embedding the sensitive tissues of the brain, until then, most head injuries are not as fatal as expected. Basically, a full-blown impact on head can lead to permanent malfunctioning of the body system.
Another kind of fatal head injury caused by motorcycle accident is when the brain is stirred while there is no open wound in the head. In this case the brain bumps the side of the skull leading to small yet deadly movements and rotation enough to cause internal bleeding inside. The use of properly designed motorcycle helmet can help absorb the shock in the head after it sinks to its protective cushions. It must not be too soft to let the head crush through its hard interior walls at once. After that, the hard plastic will yield without control. Helmet design considerations are all about the tolerable impact the head can handle, which the soft linings provide as protection, and the exterior protection from punctures.
Types of motorcycle helmets for effective use come in different appearance:
FULL FACE - Covers the full area of the back of the head, chin but has a shield made of plastic in the eye area for visibility. It is usually ventilated though some still consider it warmer and lacking flow of air inside. It tends to isolate a rider and restrain hearing because of full head coverage.
OPEN FACE - Almost the same as the full face design except it has no chin cover, which means it has low protection for the face. It has a plastic shield open to particles during a ride. It can cause injuries out of trapped small debris caught on speed. Thus, it is advisable to wear riding goggles as additional protection for the eyes.
Motorcycle helmet may not give ultimate protection but it saved a lot of lives during minor injuries.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
What You Should Know About Motorcycle Helmet Visor
Having a helmet on when riding a motorcycle is just one of the things that the person needs to protect the head when one is cruising along the road. The individual will soon discover that having a visor is important because this can protect the eyes from wind, dust, dirt, rain, insects and debris that may be thrown from the vehicle ahead.
There are two types of visors that can be purchased for the helmet. The first is the detachable kind while the other is already built in. The one needed will really depend on the road conditions one faces everyday and the type of bike one is using.
For instance, motorbikes that have a windshield will only need the type that will protect the eyes. Those who don’t should probably get the face shield type since this will provide cover for the entire face.
Most of the visors out in the market are made of plastic. The individual should probably choose the kind that is transparent and not tinted since this could pose a problem when riding the motorcycle at night.
It is also a good idea to choose the kind that allows air to pass through inside so that it will not fog.
People who prefer the transparent one should find a helmet that is big enough to accommodate the sunglasses one will be using especially when it is sunny outside. The pair worn should be shatterproof and free of scratches since could also pose problems when keeping an eye on the road.
The person does not have to buy the same brand of visor as the helmet. There are some available that have made this compatible with any. All the customer will have to do is choose which model and the color of the shield. These are usually available in black, white or smoke.
The average price of a visor in the market today is less than $20 a piece. The individual can check out the local sporting goods store or order this item online.
Riding a motorcycle is considered to be much more dangerous than driving a car. Studies have shown the number of those injured has gone up by 12% in the past year.
Should the person still want to feel the thrill of having the wind pass from the front of the motorcycle to the back, it is advisable to invest in a visor. This small accessory could be the only thing protecting the individual against dirt or debris coming towards the biker.
How To Buy A Motorcycle Helmet
A helmet is not an accessory, it a life saving gear. You must therefore spend considerable time in finding out how to buy a motorcycle helmet. Some of the points that you need to check are:
1. DOT Certification: The helmet that you buy must have a Department of Transportation certification. This is a guarantee that the helmet meets the basic safety requirements.
2. Retention: Do a roll off test before you buy a helmet. This test is simple. All that you need to do is to secure the straps, grab the rear lip of the helmet and try to roll it forward off your head. Don't stop if it hurts. A helmet should stay on your head at the moment of impact. If the helmet comes off, then don’t buy it. There is no point having a fractured head and an intact helmet lying a few feet away.
3. Fit: The fit decides the retention factor of a helmet. The fit should be snug and the helmet should stay stable. A full-face helmet should grip your cheeks and jaw as well as the top and sides of your head. When you move the helmet your skin must move as well.
4. Comfort: Comfort is a sum total of many things: the fit, the feel, the weight, the soundproofing. When trying on a helmet keep it on for at least 20 minutes. Then check to see what are the areas of discomfort.
5. Coverage: A full helmet is better than a half helmet and a full-face helmet (with a chin bar) gives more protection than an open-face style.
6. Face shield: If you are buying a helmet with a face shield go for Snell-certified helmets. The shield should be easy to operate and stay in position when raised. Also check for optical distortions. They can be dangerous.
7. Convenience features: Along with an extra shield and a quick-change face shield mechanism, a storage bag is a useful feature to look for. You can use it to carry helmets.
8. Comfort features: Vents, padded straps and, interchangeable padding shapes to fit your head shape are comfort features. But remember vents can cause wind noise and can also get damaged easily.
9. Appearance: Appearance is largely a personal choice. The only advantage that a florescent helmet has is that it will stand out more during the day.
10. Cost: Go for the helmet that meets all the criteria outlined above, even if it is cheaper than other helmets. Price is not always an absolute indicator of quality.