Motorcycle Helmet Tips and Tricks

Motorcyclists have the ability to reduce their risks of injury or death when riding a motorcycle. Be a positive influence to your passion, a responsible safety conscious rider and take it seriously by making a few smart choices. Be mature, be aware and increase your skills with training. Respect the road, respect the risk and respect the ride. Live in the moment and have lifelong fun. 

Whether it's the law or not it is a good personal decision to wear a DOT approved motorcycle helmet while riding. It simply can save your life. Make sure your helmet has a DOT and/or Snell sticker on the inside or outside of your helmet. This means that the helmet meets the minimum safety standards set by the US Department of Transportation or the higher standards of the Snell Memorial Foundation. These motorcycle helmets have undergone rigid testing processes for impact, penetration, retention and peripheral vision. Any DOT and/or Snell approved motorcycle helmet will help protect you from injury in the event of an accident. More expensive does not necessarily mean more safety.

The purchase of a motorcycle helmet and wearing one is an automatic habit now for most riders and it’s cool.

Gone are the heavy, cumbersome helmets that tired you out just trying to keep your head up. Today’s motorcycle helmets are made from modern quality materials, are super lightweight and improvements are continually being made to make them stronger, more comfortable and even less expensive.   The added bonus is the variety of helmets available now. Safety does not have to be expensive, uncomfortable or boring anymore.

A proper fit is a very important safety factor. Your motorcycle helmet as well as your chin strap should fit comfortably snug. While holding your helmet still with your hands you should not be able to move your head side to side or up and down. A loose helmet that is floppy on your head will not provide adequate protection. A proper fit also cuts down on wind noise and wind in your face (if goggles or visor is used) reducing rider fatigue.

Style is personal and with all the options available today in color, graphics and design, it shouldn’t be too difficult finding the right motorcycle helmet to suit your taste and needs. A full face helmet as the name implies provides coverage for your full face including the neck and chin offering the best protection.  The modular (3/4) or half helmet can provide some protection when worn properly. 

Your helmet should be replaced every three to five years due to deterioration of the materials or following an impact regardless of whether it shows damage or not. Remember, look for the DOT and/or Snell sticker, make sure you have the proper fit and get the style that best suits you encouraging the habit of wearing your motorcycle helmet. Use your head wisely and protect it.

Enjoy your ride with passion and without concern. Be a Legend in helmets.