Helmet Shopping... Tell me what you think?

No one mentions Shark - not as well known in the US, but very much a top tier mfg. They offer models from about $200 bucks and up, with their upper line as much, or more, than most Shoei and Arai helmets. I found that Shark fit my head well, and after lots of research, is one of the safest.

Lets be honest, any DOT helmet is a solid choice to keep your head safe. Some like the Snell requirements, but after reading up, I decided I wanted the ECE/22-05 test standard. It is the European test, and I believe it to be far above Snell 2005, though I understand the new Snell requirements are much closer to the ECE standard. I also understand that both Shoei and Arai are ECE tested and marked in the EU, though they also Snell test for here in the states.

Lastly, there is a sale on Shark stuff, as well as Arai, and many other brands right now here:
http://www.compacc.com/Bargains-Specials-Helmets

 

I dont know about the "any DOT" statement. I've been a racer for several years, and a medic/RN working at race tracks for about 8. I've seen A LOT of rung bells, (and a few helicopter rides), for people wearing DOT and snell approved helmets. IMHO (and experiences), Icon is crap. Shoei and Arai are the top helmets, in terms of craftsmanship and protection. Shark is a good brand, too, and so are some of the top line HJC's.

If ya think about it, you'll only have 1 good crash in a bad helmet, and your days of riding, and doing anything else, could be over. Its worth spending the extra cash. I had a 80mph high side in my Arai, landed directly on the top of my head, and got tumbled backwards about 5 or 6 times hitting my head each time without getting knocked out.

Sorry for the long winded post, but dont skimp on the helmet.

 

i know shoei helmets are very comfortable and are also very good!

 

Forgot to mention, (even though I talk a lot). Helmet fitment is also related to protection. make sure it fits!

Not to plug a certain retailer, but head to Riders Discount and check out their stuff, I buy a bunch of crap from them. they have excellent customer service, and hella good prices. if you call, tell 'em Tony the New Mexican Pimp sent you, and you'll get a better deal.

 

can i suggest the Suomy Spec 1R, thats what i use. I've had them all from cheap o's like hjc and also quality ones like Shoei. Suomy has the best graphics hands down than other other manufacturer out there. They are top notch on quality, and extremely light and comfortable. check them out...i think you will like !!!!

 

I love my Arai. If I got another it would be Arai....second choice would be Shoei

 

I have an AGV and i think its pretty good but nothing compares to the Arai i had. The best available but pricey

 

I haven't read through all the post but spend whatever u think ur head is worth. I am an shoei guy because thats what fits my head. I lile arai, but it doesn't fit me properly.

 

I dig the Suomy graphics. I'm weary of them, I ran one for a season because I had a sponsor give me one. I had a hard crash and a piece of curbing put a hole in the jaw, that went all the way through the fiberglass into the liner. No more for me. It should be noted, however, that the build date was a few years off...

 

No one's mentioned Nolan, but I've had 4 and will keep buying them. It may be the riding I do compared to the crotch rocket guys- I'm on a Victory cruiser, and I like the N103 Modular and N43 3/4. They're well made, relatively quiet, and with the internal sunshade, less prone to buffeting.

 

what about this? The Icon variant?



http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/1/1/38/27994/ITEM/Icon-Variant-Etched-Helmet.aspx

 

A DOT helmet will protect you the same as any other DOT helmet (unless SNELL etc). You're just paying for a name. For the price, you can't beat a HJC. I had the one with the built in sun visor. It was so convenient. But, they are pretty ugly lol.

proof that a HJC will protect your noggin.

 

a friend of mine has a helmet with a visor and it sucks on the highway. it catches alot of wind, but i guess it depends on the bikes front end shape too.

 

Easily satisfied by the best head protection technology sold for motorcyclist; Schuberth C3's.
Made in Germany, sold at most BMW motorcycle dealerships. $700.00 ea.
Bought one for me, one for my wife. Awesome helmets.

http://www.ultimatemotorcycling.com/schuberth-c3-flip-up-helmet-review

 

Here's a good resource regarding head/helmet shape and weight: http://www.webbikeworld.com/motorcycle-helmets/motorcycle-helmet-shapes.htm

Also, another brand to consider is Bell, I have read a lot of favorable reviews regarding the RS-1.