Motorcycle Helmets

You’d like to think that wearing a helmet on a motorcycle is common sense and while that might be true, not all riders know the importance of choosing the right helmet. A helmet is going to protect your most important asset in the event of a fall or crash and that, of course, is your head. Features, brands, prices, and categories of helmets can vary. For maximum protection, you’ll need to find a helmet that fits right and that’s one thing that’s the same across the board.

If you’re not sure where to start when choosing a helmet, keep reading. St. Charles Harley-Davidson® has gathered some tips to help you make the right choice. For further assistance, visit us in St. Charles near St. Louis, Columbia, and St. Peters!

Helmet Types

As you start browsing the different types of helmets, you’ll notice that they vary in the level of protection that’s offered. We always recommend choosing a helmet that’ll offer maximum protection so you will be as safe as possible if you were to fall or get in an accident. The options include half helmets, open face helmets, and full-face helmets.

Half helmets offer the least amount of protection because just as the name implies, they only cover half of your head. While these are considered the most stylish option for those riding choppers and cruisers, they leave your face and jawline exposed. These helmets are often comfortable because they’re more breathable, but you will need to be sure you have a precise fit as they can easily slide off. It’s best to only consider a half helmet if you’re an expert rider.

The next option is an open face helmet, which covers your ears and a part of your jaw. Open face helmets are more likely to remain in place than half helmets, which is a plus. Some open face helmets come with a visor to shield your eyes from harsh elements like wind and rain. This is another option that is best left to more experienced bikers.

Full-face helmets are easily the safest choice as they cover the most of your head and they come with face shields so you won’t need goggles. Most of these helmets are constructed with better padding so they’re more comfortable to wear. On the other hand, some can be heavier and less breathable, which can become pretty uncomfortable on a hot summer day. All rider can benefit from full-face helmets, but beginners should always try to start here.

Crash Test Ratings

In your search for a motorcycle helmet, you’ll see crash test ratings on the packaging. These tests are either done by a government agency such as the Department of Transportation or by a non-profit organization like Snell, which was founded after sports car racer Peter Snell died from head injuries. The tests examine important factors like impact, penetration, retention, and peripheral vision. The results help buyers make an informed decision when choosing a helmet.

Fit & Comfort

As mentioned earlier, the most important thing to take into consideration when buying a helmet is that it fits correctly. You’ll get much better protection with a helmet that is cheap but fits well than a helmet that is expensive and ill-fitting. Take your time when shopping and be sure to try on several different helmets so you can find the precise fit.

Choosing a Helmet

Once you’re ready to get shopping, remember to ask yourself some essential questions. What type of riding will you be doing? If you will be taking long rides, you’ll want to invest more money for better comfort. How often will you ride with others? If the answer is frequently, you may want a Bluetooth-capable helmet so you can communicate safely while riding.

Consider the store’s return policy. You can be very diligent in your shopping and decision process, but you’ll only know if it’s the perfect fit after wearing it for a long period of time. You can keep it on for several minutes at home or even take it for a spin to determine if it fits well. You’ll want to be able to return or exchange it if it’s not a good fit

Choosing a helmet can be difficult but as long as you take your time and ask the right questions, you’ll be riding in style (and safely) in no time! For all your motorcycle needs, stop by St. Charles Harley-Davidson® in St. Charles near St. Louis, Columbia, and St. Peters.