Searching for the right helmet

[petekadish]

I don't like wearing helmets . . ., unless I'm riding in wintertime cold, or the rain, and then I don't mind them too much. However, now that I'm getting older and a little smarter, I realize that I need to overcome this attitude.

 

Over the past few years I have tried a number of different helmets and found that I prefer different styles depending on the season. With my new Venture I also now use a headset/intercom system (Air Riders) and that is influencing my choice to wear a helmet more often.

 

My current quest has to do with full-face helmets.

 

If I wear a full-face helmet, it has to be a flip-up. I always ride with glasses or sunglasses and this is the style I prefer. When I wear my full-face, it's my XL, HJC Symax. The price was fair and it was pretty comfortable (considering that I don't really like wearing helmets).

 

This past summer I road about 12,000 miles and had the opportunity to ride through a number of states which required I wear a helmet. During that time, I experimented with a few different helmets which really reminded me why I don't like helmets - it's because I'm not comfortable in them.

 

Most of my riding is here in the Mountain West (Utah), and it's HOT here in the summer. Thank goodness it's not humid here, I don't think that I could cope with that. I tried a XXL, AGV 3/4 Helmet that was kind of cool-looking and pretty inexpensive. But, I soon discovered that the lack of cushioning on my forehead was unbearable. I then purchased an XL, HJC 3/4 and was pretty satisfied with that as a non-full-face helmet.

 

A little while ago, I either heard or read somewhere that different brands of helmets have different fits and feels. So, I decided to try on a helmet which was far more expensive than I thought I would ever consider. I also tried a XXL instead of just an XL (I got a big head). I couldn't take it out to ride with it, but I did try it inside the store, and I think I can begin to understand why they cost so much more. What a difference over the less expensive ones I have tried. It actually felt all right.

 

The helmet I tried was a Shoei Multitec. It was really comfortable. Secure but not too tight, it was a positive first impression. So, I put a down-payment on it and thought I would check and see if anyone here has had any experience with this particular helmet and especially using it with a headset.

 

I really hope that this will be a helmet purchase I won't regret. Not that I want to test it's safety effectivness, but I do need to (learn?) to be happy with it so I will use it.

 

For those who know, is the Shoei Multitec pretty quiet? Are different size cheekpads available? Any concerns I ought to be aware of about them. The best price I have found through a local dealer is $410.

 

Your opinions are appreciated.

 

Be Safe!

Pete.

[HeathersWheels]

True different helmets fit different shape heads. Smart to try a variety to get a good fit. Which it sounds like you fouund a good fit with Shoei Multitec. I found this review http://www.webbikeworld.com/r2/shoei/multitec/

 

hope it helps

[GeorgeS]

I always just answer this question by telling folks to go to a dealer that stocks a very large selection, and spend lots of time to find one

that fits and feels good.

 

If its right for you, its worth whatever it costs.

 

I also have two friends, that are alive because they were

" Wearing "

[Squeeze]

Hi,

 

first and most important is to look out for a fitting Helmet. This means that you should not be able to move the Helmet to any Direction on your Head. Different Brands have different Shapes inside.

 

Next Thing, a new Helmet also needs "Break In" Time. You better buy the Size a bit smaller than you're comfortable with. This may cost you 2 or 3 Hours of Pain even a slight Headache can occur. But then, when your Head and Helmet negotiated the 'get together', you will be satisfied for the next Years.

 

If you buy a slightly too big Size, you will be able to turn it around the Head within the next 3 Months. This is more annoying than a too close fit.

 

Don't ask how i know that, i payed the Price for learning that ....

[Guest KitCarson]

I don't like wearing helmets . . ., unless I'm riding in wintertime cold, or the rain, and then I don't mind them too much. However, now that I'm getting older and a little smarter, I realize that I need to overcome this attitude.

 

Over the past few years I have tried a number of different helmets and found that I prefer different styles depending on the season. With my new Venture I also now use a headset/intercom system (Air Riders) and that is influencing my choice to wear a helmet more often.

 

My current quest has to do with full-face helmets.

 

If I wear a full-face helmet, it has to be a flip-up. I always ride with glasses or sunglasses and this is the style I prefer. When I wear my full-face, it's my XL, HJC Symax. The price was fair and it was pretty comfortable (considering that I don't really like wearing helmets).

 

This past summer I road about 12,000 miles and had the opportunity to ride through a number of states which required I wear a helmet. During that time, I experimented with a few different helmets which really reminded me why I don't like helmets - it's because I'm not comfortable in them.

 

Most of my riding is here in the Mountain West (Utah), and it's HOT here in the summer. Thank goodness it's not humid here, I don't think that I could cope with that. I tried a XXL, AGV 3/4 Helmet that was kind of cool-looking and pretty inexpensive. But, I soon discovered that the lack of cushioning on my forehead was unbearable. I then purchased an XL, HJC 3/4 and was pretty satisfied with that as a non-full-face helmet.

 

A little while ago, I either heard or read somewhere that different brands of helmets have different fits and feels. So, I decided to try on a helmet which was far more expensive than I thought I would ever consider. I also tried a XXL instead of just an XL (I got a big head). I couldn't take it out to ride with it, but I did try it inside the store, and I think I can begin to understand why they cost so much more. What a difference over the less expensive ones I have tried. It actually felt all right.

 

The helmet I tried was a Shoei Multitec. It was really comfortable. Secure but not too tight, it was a positive first impression. So, I put a down-payment on it and thought I would check and see if anyone here has had any experience with this particular helmet and especially using it with a headset.

 

I really hope that this will be a helmet purchase I won't regret. Not that I want to test it's safety effectivness, but I do need to (learn?) to be happy with it so I will use it.

 

For those who know, is the Shoei Multitec pretty quiet? Are different size cheekpads available? Any concerns I ought to be aware of about them. The best price I have found through a local dealer is $410.

 

Your opinions are appreciated.

 

Be Safe!

Pete.

:thumbsup::sign yeah that:Kit

[Lone Eagle]

Hey, Pete - good luck choosing your helmet. I had a Shoei full face and liked it - very quiet - a little heavy. When I got the comm system this year, we switched to Nolan modular full face helmets. I was liking the article that Heather posted, until I continued reading about the wobble with the clear visor, fogging you could control with Zook (or something like that), the weight and the air flow. I also found on the Nolan that there is not much distance between the chin and the back of the chin bar - as that article was also relating to the Shoei. I also believe the Nolan isn't as "heavy" as the Shoei.

 

One thing I might have learned - as a comparison - is that it seems the Shoei has a gasket at the hinges to "eliminate" some wind noise. My Nolan is very noisy (wind) - which was a great disappointment to me. I was told that moving from the Shoei full face - to the Nolan modular - that I went from a Cadillac to a VW in helmets. The Nolan does give me much more peripheal vision than the Shoei did - which I really like. I agree with the comment that you have to break these helmets in. Unfortunately, helmets are like motorcycle seats - you don't really know until you have them for a while - then - if you don't like 'em - what do you do with them:confused24:?

Which ever way you go with this, . As an aside, my wife loves her Nolan. So, don't get frustrated, just take you time and read the various reviews on these helmets - you will find one.

[lonestarmedic]

I chose a Scorpion 200. I like the tool less faceshield change and the removeable liner so I can wash it. Fit is a bit tight right now until the cheek pads break in. Price for a Snell/Dot helmet was excellent. I plan on buying the shorter 100 with the flip down eyeshield for my commuter helmet.

 

J. B.

[dynodon]

I got back into motorcycling this summer after about 20 years off. I had always believed in and worn helmets. I also do track days/autocross/drags in cars and have a selection of helmets for that.

 

I started on my bike with my car helmets, but they didn't have enough air flow.

 

I then bought an older Shoei helmet from a friend, 3/4 open face that was comfortable and worked till the weather got real windy or cold.

 

I then got a Nolan N-42 at the suggestion of someone that said they were very quiet. Well, they are kind of quiet. The N-42 is tight for the same size as other helmets, and was really tight in the ear pockets. Well I took a razor blade and cut out some of that funny white stuff inside that isn't real important is it? (just kidding) Really, just took out enough to let my ears not sit too tight against the lining, and also made a small cut to let me mount a J&M intercom setup.

 

The N-42 does let some wind noise around the face shield, and the sun shade can rattle quite a bit if not tight against the shield. Overall, not bad, but not as quiet or calm as I hoped. Luckily I got it nearly new off E-bay and didn't pay full price.

 

Over the years in my car racing, I have found Simpson helmets to be top quality, high price, but not nearly the highest, and I may look to see what they have for next summer.

[Orrin]

This is a great thread. I will be reading carefully as I need to buy a new helmet because mine got trashed in my accident. Saved my brain, or whatever is between my ears.

[BOO]

I have had several helmets through the years, didn't wear most of them to much except dirt riding. My wife talked me into wearing a helmet about 20 years ago and I could probably count the number of times I haven't wore the helmet on one hand. But that's another thread.

Like someone said buy a good fitting helmet and a good helmet. $29.95 is not going to do it. Most helmet quality goes along with price except when you are talking about graphics.

I have two helmets now, both Arai, like them a lot. They fit snug, don't bounce around on my head and are quiet. Had a Shoei before and wore it probably 5 years to long but I did like that helmet.

The Arai's felt a little tight until I wore them a few times.

I'm wondering if you can hear a lot of wind noise, are you buying a helmet that fits you properly? They have to be pretty snug to be useful.

Look at the Nascar guys when they get out of the car after a race. Their helmet is tight, probably to tight for motorcycle riders but it is a safety issue.

Good luck in your search.

Jerry

[flb_78]

unfortunately for me, I have to find a helmet big enough first. Every 3x helmet I tried squished my face.

 

I found a helmet company by the name of Vega. They had good reviews and they offer a 4x and 5x size. I ordered a 4x and it is tight. Ive been wearing it ever since I received it. The more I wear it, the more I like it. Ive done a couple of small rides without it and was uncomfortable. Figger that one out.

[KiteSquid]

If you find a helmet that is close in size but not quite right, try this chart as a good place to start.....

 

There are other motorcycle helmet size comparison charts on the Internet, if the brands you want are not listed.......

[CrazyHorse]

With winter coming try to find a motorcycle show and go try on many different helmets. I have a Nolan Ncom N102 it is noisy took a couple weeks to break in used to have a Shoei I have to agree I have better visibiltiy.

[RedRider]

If you are going to spend the big bucks, try an Arai. It is light weight and has multiple selections of padding available to custom fit your melon. You will also find a full face (not flip up) helmet will be quieter. They are pretty expensive but are very high quality.

 

On the HJC, if you are finding it a little tight at the forehead, take a small round rock or a ball peen hammer and pound the styrofoam out a little bit. Not too much 'cause this will reduce the protective capacity. However, pounding out 1/8 inch will make a huge difference on the fit and comfort. I've done this on my 1/2 helmet and my flip face - both HJC.

 

The idea mentioned above of going to the Motorcycle shows in the spring and trying on helmets is a great way to go. All the brands will be there along with factory reps. You can also consult with the various headset folks since they will be there.

 

Any way about it though, you are better off wearing a helmet. You will find it is like a seat belt - once you get really used to it, it feels odd not having it on.

 

Ride safely.

 

RR

[Condor]

Like LoneEagle I use a Nolan Flip, and it does seem a little bit noisy. It does have a ridge that the front cantalevers down into and I'm going to see if putting a little 1/4" bead of stick on weather stripping in there to see if that will help. However, that said, I don't really want a helmet that's completely sound proof. The ears are just as important as the eyes when keeping track of things going on around you....

[BOO]

Like LoneEagle I use a Nolan Flip, and it does seem a little bit noisy. It does have a ridge that the front cantalevers down into and I'm going to see if putting a little 1/4" bead of stick on weather stripping in there to see if that will help. However, that said, I don't really want a helmet that's completely sound proof. The ears are just as important as the eyes when keeping track of things going on around you....

 

I think the wind noise makes you unable to hear more than without it.

Although I have no wind noise I can here the radio just fine.

Jerry

[Snarley Bill]

i have four helmets one fulmer and tree hjc's. i really like the hjc helmets.they fit me good.helmets are a personal preference .i try them on if they fit and are comfortable and the style i like i buy it.bill

[Guest sargeb13]

I've always thought a full face would be much, much safer; but, I have a VERY long oval head shape, and in years of trying on helmets never found one to fit. Until now, that is. Recently I visited a gear store in Dallas (Moto Liberty) and tried on a Vega full face, and wonder of wonders, IT FIT! Price was right, too, at well under $100. I've now worn the helmet on a couple of day-long rides, 'bout 500 miles each, and a number of commutes, and offer the following observations:

 

The single most important consideration is fit. If the helmet is tight on spots, it will be very uncomfortable. Put the helmet on and have someone hold the sides while you try to turn your head from side to side and up and down. If your head moves inside the helmet, the fit is wrong. Likewise, if the fit is pressing on spots, its wrong.

 

I was concerned about visability while wearing a full face helmet. Not a problem. The Vega allows full range of vision, and the "edge" of the helmet is not visable at all. The Vega is considerably quieter than a half helmet, but does not interfere with music or traffic/tire noise, either. Not a problem. The only problem with the full face is drinking: can't sip coffee with the Vega on: no way.

 

Since I bought the Vega, I've found Fulmer makes a flip up that fits, too. I'll probably buy one soon, and see how that works. Fulmer apparently doesn't allow its dealers to sell on the internet (what incredibly dumb marketing that is, neh?). Both the Fulmer and the Vega flip ups seem to me to be quite well made and put together. 'Suggest you try them (I've seen them priced in the low $100's at dealers, 'bout $120-$130.

 

Having looked at many, many helmets, I do think the Arai, Nolan, and Shoei are all super helmets. The Arai's ability to accept "sized" replacement pads to fully customize the fit is really nice, too. Just wish they fit!

 

Good luck.

[Freebird]

Here is a decent article on the Fulmer Helmets.

 

http://www.webbikeworld.com/r2/motorcycle-helmet/fulmer-helmet/

[Freebird]

and here is one on the Vega. They actually give it higher marks than the Fulmer.

 

http://www.webbikeworld.com/r2/motorcycle-helmet/vega/summit-xpv.htm

[Snarley Bill]

i've got an older fulmer full face and it seems like a pretty good helmet for the price i paid.i only wear a full face in the winter.just bought a new hjc full face and it is the cats meow.fits good,anti fog,no internal drafts,noise free,and very warm in cold weather.only draw back is water acumulates on the bottom of the face mask from my breath.looking for a snow mobile breath deflector to cure that.there are so many hundreds of models of helmets to choose from ,that i set priorities when i buy one.must have anti fog ,good seal on face shield ,no undue pressure on head,dot and snell approved,good side vision,not bulky and silly looking,and.not overly heavy.i try to have a helmet for all riding conditions.thats why i have 4 of them.this last two weeks with the different temperatures , different bikes i rode ,and different distances. i wore all 4 of them at one time or another.