Hey, fellow motorcyclists! Riding a motorcycle is super exciting, but don’t forget that the helmet is our “life-saving charm” on the road. Today, I’m going to talk to you about the buying guide for motorcycle helmets. Listen up!
I. Understand the Types of Helmets First
Common motorcycle helmets include full-face helmets, half-face helmets, and modular helmets. The full-face helmet offers comprehensive protection, wrapping your entire head tightly like a suit of armor. It can keep you safe from wind, sand, and stones. It’s a must for high-speed riding. The half-face helmet is relatively lightweight and has good ventilation, suitable for a leisurely ride in the city. However, its protection is relatively weaker. The modular helmet is amazing. It can protect your whole face like a full-face helmet, and when needed, you can lift up the chin part for easy communication and better ventilation. It’s really practical when you take a break during a long ride.
II. Pay Attention to Safety Certifications
When buying a helmet, you must check the safety certifications! Currently, internationally recognized certifications include DOT (Department of Transportation Certification in the US), ECE (Economic Commission for Europe Certification), etc. The 3C certification in our country is also excellent. Helmets with these certification marks have undergone strict tests and have certain guarantees in terms of safety performance. Never be greedy for cheap and buy those unbranded products. If something goes wrong, you’ll regret it too late.
III. The Material Matters a Lot
The material of the helmet directly determines its protection ability and weight. Generally speaking, the shell of a good helmet will be made of high-strength engineering plastics such as ABS and PC, which can effectively disperse the impact force. The inner cushioning layer usually uses EPS (Expanded Polystyrene Foam), which acts like a gentle little guard, absorbing energy during a collision to protect our heads. Also, the quality of the helmet’s visor cannot be ignored. It should be clear, wear-resistant, and anti-fog. Otherwise, if your vision is blurred while riding, it’ll be extremely dangerous.
IV. The Right Size Is of Paramount Importance
If the helmet doesn’t fit properly, it’ll be really uncomfortable to wear and will also affect safety. Measure your head circumference carefully. Usually, you measure around the most prominent part of your forehead. Then choose the appropriate helmet size according to your head circumference. After putting on the helmet, it should fit snugly on your head. It shouldn’t be too loose, because if it is, it won’t provide protection; nor should it be too tight, or it’ll feel constricting and give you a headache after riding for a while. Shake your head left and right, and the helmet shouldn’t move around too much. That’s what a proper fit is like.
V. There’s a Knack to Choosing Brands
There are numerous helmet brands on the market. International big names like AGV and SHOEI have excellent quality and cool designs, but their prices are relatively high. There are also many good domestic brands in our country, such as LS2 and Yongheng. They offer great value for money and the quality is also very good. You can choose a brand according to your budget and preferences.
VI. Don’t Ignore the Appearance
Although safety comes first, who doesn’t want to go out wearing a cool-looking helmet? Now, the colors and patterns of helmets are extremely rich. There are cool mecha styles, simple solid-color styles, and individualistic graffiti styles, etc. Choose an appearance you like, and when you ride your motorcycle on the road, you’ll definitely turn heads!
In conclusion, fellow motorcyclists, you can’t be careless when choosing a helmet. You need to consider all aspects. After all, this small helmet carries great safety. I hope everyone can choose a suitable helmet and ride happily and safely on the road! 😜