Although motorbikes make up only three per cent of vehicles on international roads, two-wheelers are involved in 14 per cent of road accidents. It is also alarming that the https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/motorcycles/ involved in accidents has increased by 27 percent in the last ten years.
Wearing a motorbike helmet can prevent serious injuries to the head and thus reduce the mortality rate. Unfortunately, helmets are not compulsory in all countries. Are you one of those motorcyclists who want to be safe on the roads? Then read on, because we will tell you which criteria must be taken into account when buying a helmet.
What types of motorbike helmets are there?
Full-face helmets are considered the safest helmets because they enclose both the head and the chin area. In addition, they have a flip-up visor, which contributes to wearing comfort.
Jet or half-shell helmets completely cover the back of the head, but leave the face uncovered. For this reason, they are also called open-face helmets. When riding, the wind blows around the face, but insects can get into the eye, mouth and nose areas.
Fold-up or flip-up helmets have been around since the 1980s. These helmets deliver exactly what they promise. The front and chin section can be opened, which means they have an open visor. They are very popular with consumers because the helmet does not necessarily have to be removed for eating, drinking, talking on the phone.
Cross and Enduro helmets are mainly used for off-road riding. They are designed to embed the head securely, but do not protect the facial area. Instead of a visor, cross goggles cover the eyes. This allows more air to enter the helmet. This makes wearing the helmet comfortable even in summer.
The automotive industry never sleeps, and new innovations are launched on the market every day. Nowadays, you see more and more motorbike helmets equipped with digital cameras. Who knows what the future holds for us.
Size and fit
The most important thing when choosing a helmet is the right fit. The helmet must enclose the head and fit tightly. If the helmet wobbles when worn, this is a sign of an inappropriate size. As a rule, helmets are offered in sizes from XS to XL. However, the models from various manufacturers may have different fits. Accordingly, it is important to always check the size specifications and compare them with your own measurements. To determine the correct size, the forehead circumference should be used as a guide.
Apart from the circumference of the forehead, other criteria also play a role. For example, the shape of the head and the cheek area influence the purchase decision. Consequently, it is important to try on the helmet before buying it. Only by putting on the head protection can it be determined whether the helmet really fits.
It is advisable to wear the helmet for at least 10 minutes to check for possible pressure points. Many models have pads that can be removed, for example. If the helmet is too tight on the cheeks, for example, but fits the shape of the head well, the cheek pads can be easily removed. This gives a certain amount of leeway.
Furthermore, it should be taken into account that the padding will yield somewhat over time. Accordingly, it is better to choose a helmet with a firm fit. Furthermore, visual aids should always be taken along for a fitting. In just a few seconds, it is clear whether helmet and glasses are really compatible.
When ordering online – such as when buying helmets from ChromeBurner.com – the size chart should be studied carefully. However, if the helmet is exchangeable, the purchased item can be replaced quickly and easily.
