When it comes to motorbike safety, there is nothing more important than a helmet (maybe even more so than your Ridersmate!). You only get one brain, and it’s incredibly fragile – investing in the right helmet will make a huge difference to your chances of survival and recovery outcomes in the event you have a serious accident. If you are looking for a dirt bike check this article.
Not all helmets are created equally, and with so many different models available, it can be difficult to know where to begin. In this guide, we show you exactly what to look for in a new helmet, to ensure that you’re effectively protected and safe on the roads.
Stay SHARP – stay safe
The first thing you’re going to want to look for is the safety rating. As a minimum, you need to choose a helmet that passes the British or EU safety standards. SHARP, the department of transport’s helmet safety scheme is a great resource – so check on their website at http://sharp.direct.gov.uk/.
There, you’ll find information on the safety standards each helmet has achieved. In addition, SHARP put all the helmets they test through a rigorous process designed to inform you about the real world performance.
The website is regularly updated with the latest helmets available, and their easy to follow 1-5 star safety rating system is based on the results from independent crash tests.
Getting the right fit
Even the best helmet won’t protect you if it doesn’t fit properly, and an alarming proportion of riders have the wrong size. A study of European motorcycle accidents found that riders’ helmets came off in 12% of accidents, many due to a poor fit.
Poorly fitting helmets are also uncomfortable, which can cause fatigue and neck problems, whilst causing an unnecessary distraction whilst riding.
Every manufacturer has a slightly different idea of size, and everyone’s head is a different shape. Ultimately, the only way to see whether a helmet is the right fit for you is to try it on.
The right fitting helmet should be very snug – it shouldn’t rotate, and the padding shouldn’t be able to move around or chafe against your skin. Take your time when trying on helmets, and once you’ve found one that you think fits, wear it for at least 10-15 minutes. This will help to give you a better idea of how it will feel in the real world.
Making safer choices
Whilst there’s always the temptation to go for a cool looking motorcycle helmet that matches your look or the style of your bike – this is a dangerous way to choose. Remember why you’re wearing a helmet in the first place.
For maximum safety, a full-face helmet is best – it’s guaranteed to provide better all-round protection than an open-faced design.
Colour wise, muted colours like matte black might match your new bike, but they won’t be as visible to other road users as brighter tones. When it comes to safety, the brighter and more colourful the better.
However, if you’re dead set against neon yellow or electric orange – choosing something that contrasts with the colour of your bike or leathers will significantly increase your visibility and safety.
Choices for comfort
In addition to the safety considerations, there are a few optional features you’ll want to consider that will make a real difference to your comfort on the road. Think about:
Ventilation – on hot days, you’ll definitely appreciate a helmet with vents that provide good airflow, but you’ll want to be able to close these on cold, wet days
Noise – some motorbike helmets are better at dampening out sound than others. If you’re planning on doing a lot of miles, then it’s a good idea to go for a quieter model.
Anti-fog – visors can be prone to steaming up, especially on wet, humid days, and this can be dangerous. A good anti-fog system will help to keep your vision clear.
Cleaning – over time, sweat, dirt and grime will build up inside your helmet. Riding with a dirty, smelly helmet isn’t very pleasant, so invest in one with a removable liner, which will make cleaning it much, much easier!
Stay safe with Ridersmate
Buying a high quality motorcycle helmet that fits you well is absolutely vital – but it’s only the start when it comes to motorbike safety.
If you have an accident when riding alone, in rural areas, or at night, then the right helmet might not be enough – get confidence and peace of mind by investing in a Ridersmate unit today.
Ridersmate acts as your electronic guardian angel, springing to your rescue the moment you have an accident and fall of your bike. Sending an emergency SMS message to up to 3 key contacts, it will let your loved ones know exactly what’s happened, so they can send for the help you need.
Lightweight, durable, and easy to use, it fits quickly and easily onto any bike, and might just save your life! Head over to the Ridersmate Store today, and get the confidence that comes from knowing you’ll never be left stranded, injured and alone.
