A Guide to Motorcycle Helmets
Whether you’re making a short trip to the store or planning a coast-to-coast ride, it’s important to focus on safety. You should take great care of your bike and invest in quality safety gear. Purchasing the right helmet is an important first step. It’s the most important piece of safety gear you own and should be worn at all times. Each year motorcycle helmets save almost 2,000 lives, and the next life they save could be yours. Even if your state doesn’t require you to wear a helmet, you should wear one at all times. Here are a few things to consider as you shop for the right helmet. If you have any other questions visit us at North County Indian Motorcycle® in San Marcos and Corona, California, serving San Diego and Oceanside, California.
How a Helmet Works
The way that a helmet works is pretty straightforward. It provides multiple layers of padding and insulation that are designed to absorb damage. It features an outer shell, an impact-absorbing liner, a padded inside comfort layer and either a retention system or a chin strap. Each part serves its own purpose, and they all work together to protect your head. The design of motorcycle helmets hasn’t changed much over the years, but new helmets are built from lighter materials than ever before.
Helmet Styles
The style of your helmet should be determined by your riding style, and you have several to choose from. Full-face helmets offer the most protection because they feature a chin bar. During an accident, your chin and jaw can absorb up to half the impact. A modular or flip up helmet is designed for touring riders who sit in an upright position all day. They make specialty off-road and dual-sport helmets for dirt bikes and sport bikes. Open face and half helmets require riders to also wear eye protection. A half helmet is fine for a scooter but not for longer rides.
How to Find Your Motorcycle Helmet Size
Helmets are a lot like clothing when it comes to sizing. They’re available in sizes from extra small to extra large, and there can often be a lot of variation between different helmet manufacturers. A small helmet from one brand might fit the same as another brand’s medium.
When you try on the helmet make sure that the chin strap is comfortable and fits snugly around your chin. You should only be able to fit two fingers between the strap and your chin. The helmet should fit securely, and it shouldn't feel too tight.
For more information visit North County Indian Motorcycle® in San Marcos and Corona, California, serving San Diego and Oceanside, California.