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How Long Do Motorcycle Helmets Last And How To Maximize Your Motorcycle Helmet Safety

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According to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and the Snell Memorial Foundation, motorcycle helmets should be replaced every five years. Motorcycle Helmets generally have four elements: a hard outer shell, an impact-absorbing liner, retaining system and comfort padding. The outer shell and liner operate by spreading the energy of an impact to reduce the amount of energy transmitted to the wearer’s brain.

The length of time that a helmet is viable was determined by a consensus between the DOT Helmet manufacturers and the Snell Foundation. Hair oils, body fluids, environmental situations and normal wear and tear may cause a deterioration in performance. The Snell Foundation also advises that protective advances in the helmet technology also changes within five-year periods. Any DOT helmet that was involved in an accident should be replaced immediately, as some or all of its shock absorption qualities may have been used. Older DOT helmets, though they may appear to be in good shape, may have worn or frayed chin straps or hidden cracks.

If your motorcycle helmet is dropped, in most cases, your helmet is still good. Most manufacturers offer an inspection service and may, at their discretion, repair the helmet. The Snell Foundation recommends that if you suspect your DOT helmet is compromised, then replace it. If the helmet has been involved in an impact while in use, replace it.

Don’t buy a used motorcycle helmet it can compromise motorcycle helmet safety in a number of ways. First, you won’t know whether it’s been in a prior accident. If it has, chances are that the cushiony polystyrene layer inside that is designed to absorb the shock of an impact has already been compressed. This will make it worthless in protecting you in an accident. Also, age and exposure to certain elements can make the polystyrene lose its elasticity and become brittle, reducing the amount of protection it provides. Avoid excessive exposure to the sun. If you ride a motorcycle, chances are pretty high that your DOT helmet will be exposed to sunlight. But, you can extend the life of your helmet and maximize motorcycle helmet safety by parking in the shade and storing the helmet out of the sun when not in use. Sunlight damages polystyrene, causing it to wear and become brittle over time.

Avoid excessive exposure to gas fumes and other chemicals. Gas vapours are particularly harmful to polystyrene. Avoid hanging your DOT helmet near the gas tank. To maximize motorcycle helmet safety, also avoid storing it in a garage or other area where it will regularly be exposed to concentrated gas fumes and emissions. Avoid pointed or sharp objects. This seems obvious, but make sure you don’t hang your helmet on pointed hooks or antennae that could pierce the inner polystyrene layer.

Perhaps the most important motorcycle helmet safety step is to replace your DOT helmet at least every 5 years. Even if you take every possible step to extend the life of the helmet, the inner polystyrene layer will brittle with age, providing you with less protection the older it gets.

Shop Online For Discount Motorcycle Gear – Be Safe And Save.

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Many people use and rely on motorcycles for both transport and recreation and the number is growing globally. In 2006 it was estimated there were around 200 million motorcycles (which also included mopeds, scooters and motorized bicycles) being used world wide. Of course this number is ever increasing and not surprisingly about 60% of these motorcycles are used in Asia. Even through the 2009 Global Financial Crisis the growth in motorcycle use rose by approximately 6%.

Motorcycles are relatively inexpensive to run; and they do leave a smaller carbon footprint. There is a downside of course and that is motorcycles have a higher fatality rate per miles traveled when compared with automobiles. The statistics from 2007 are frightening in that motorcyclists are 35 times more likely to die in a crash than as a passenger in a car and the statistics are worse for motorcycle riders aged below 40. Mind you half of the fatal accidents show alcohol involvement and not surprisingly injury severity increases with speed, alcohol consumption and motorcycle engine power.

Statistics from America reveal that in 2007 80% of reported motorcycle crashes resulted in serious injury or death compared to 20% in automobiles. So hopefully these grim statistics should convince you that investing in reputable motorcycle safety gear is not just a good idea, but an exercise in self preservation. Heres a quote from Dave Edwards of Cycle World

“Here’s the thing: motorcycles are not dangerous, saying that if a rider has a license, attends riding schools, wears all the gear all the time, and develops an accident avoidance sixth sense, motorcycling can become safe… do all of these things, become really serious about your road craft, and you’ll be so under-represented in accident statistics as to become almost bulletproof.”

The usual items of protective clothing of course are: helmets, gloves, jackets, pants and boots. The technology advances in design and materials each year is phenomenal. Titanium, carbon fibre and Kevlar have now found their way into motorcycle protective gear making it lighter, stronger and more comfortable.

Lets start with the helmet. For the most protection you should always consider buying a full-face helmet. Those who analyze motorcycle accidents have found 35% of all crashes show major impact to the lower face or frontal jaw area. The numbers speak for themselves.

Motorcycle helmets have a DOT or Snell rating. The DOT (or Department of Transport) rating is not worth an awful lot. Helmet manufacturers can submit their helmet for testing, but they can also state that they believe their helmet will pass the DOT tests. Snell testing is much more rigorous and provides the buyer with peace of mind knowing that four crucial areas are assessed and found to be adequate.

1. Impact management – how well the helmet protects against impacts with large objects
2. Positional stability – whether the helmet remains in the right position during an impact or collision
3. Retention system strength – to assess how well the chinstraps hold the helmet on the head during impact
4. Extent of protection – basically how much of the head is protected properly by the helmet.

In 2010, Snell updated their standards, which means any helmet manufactured after that date should bear the M2010 sticker if it is Snell certified.

Motorcycle jackets are available in both leather and fabric. All jackets should have armor in the elbow and forearm areas as well as the shoulders. More often than not it is hard plastic that is intended to protect from the leather or fabric wearing away during the extreme abrasion effects that occur when a rider comes into contact with the road during an accident. Technology advances have now come forward with new viscoelastic materials that remain soft and pliable during normal riding, but transform at the molecular level during impact to develop rigid and protective properties. Fabric jackets can cover a wide range of riding temperature conditions, from Gore-Tex lined jackets for the wetter, cooler riding to mesh jackets that suit the warmer riding days.

Motorcycle pants are also available in both leather and fabric. Leather by far and away provides the best protection but isnt good in extremes of hot and cold. Some manufacturers insert breathable panels into the leather garments to provide comfort for a wider range of temperatures. Fabric pants also should be fitted with armor in the knee and shin areas. There are a number of manufacturers who use heavy grade cotton/synthetic fabrics and reinforce the buttock, shin and knee areas with woven Kevlar and the like. The hi-tech inserts make for a more resilient garment to prevent abrasion failure of the fabric at crucial points.

Motorcycle boots support basically three types of riding styles. Touring/street, off-road/ATV and sports/racing. Each boot type is crafted to meet the general needs of each riding style. Touring boots are primarily made for comfort while the other two types of boots tend to be focused heavily on providing lower leg, ankle and foot protection while meeting the movement needs of those riding styles.

Like boots, motorcycle gloves come in a myriad of styles and designs to satisfy the riding style of the buyer. They are an essential part of the riders safety arsenal.

Good motorcycle gear is worth it in terms of both rider safety and comfort. As with all things, safety costs money and you only get what you pay for. Cheap motorcycle gear usually suffers from a number of shortcomings; not the least of which is its inability to provide satisfactory protection in the event of an accident. The sad thing about this is you only find out about it after the event.

The trick is to get the best motorcycle gear that fits your budget, and that means seeking out and finding the best prices. Its a foregone conclusion these days that the best place to start looking is reputable online merchants.

Buying your motorcycle gear online is convenient and offers you the widest range of gear to select from. You can surf through any number of reviews and testimonials to help you make your decision. Buying your protective motorcycle gear online is much cheaper than what you would spend in your local bricks and mortar motorcycle store. Most online retailers offer incentives like free shipping and handling. Do not worry about size as most online retailers offer you a no hassles return policy if it doesnt fit. Just like any other business, they want you to be a happy return customer.

Helmets R Us Your One-stop Shop For Dot And Novelty Motorcycle Helmets

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If you are looking for DOT helmets or Novelty motorcycle helmets, there is no better place to go than Helmets R Us. Helmets R US is a small family-owned and operated helmet manufacturer and retailer based in Daytona. With a product range that includes popular novelty helmets as well as full-face motorcycle helmets, Helmets R Us is well-equipped to meet all of your helmet needs. The Helmets R Us selection includes German DOT helmets, DOT Daytona Cruiser Open-Face Motorcycle Helmets, DOT Captain America Helmets, a wide range of Novelty motorcycle helmets, and many more.

Helmets R Us motorcycle helmets come with either D-Rings or a variety of quick-release buckles. In addition, Helmets R Us offers four buckles which can be added to almost any style motorcycle helmet.

Of particular interest to seekers of high quality is the Helmets R Us range of German DOT helmets. Among these is the attractive and elegant glossy black HCI DOT helmet. Apart from its smooth, sleek appearance, this renowned helmet is also created with a durable glossy black shell, rubber trim, steel rivets, a moisture absorbent lining over a Styrofoam inner shell, and a D-ring retention system. Weighing only 2.2 lbs, it is currently being sold at a 30 percent discount off its retail price.

The Helmets R Us collection of German DOT helmets also includes the German Matte Black, which contains many of the same features as the glossy black HCI DOT. Shaped like a soldiers helmet and boasting an elegant finish, this high-end DOT helmet is also available at a 30 percent discount.

For a bit of variety, Helmets R US also offers the HCI Dot German Chrome. With a chrome-finished fiberglass shell and the option of quick-release buckles, this helmet also comes with a 30 percent discount and is therefore one of the most attractive options for purchase.

Then there is the Daytona Cruiser Open Face Range, most of which meet or exceed DOT standards and are available at attractive discounts. Even though this helmet design takes on a more conventional shape, these helmets have everything that a good sturdy helmet is required to have. Not to mention the wide range of colors they are available in.

Also recommended is the Helmets R Us stock of HCI Open Face motorcycle helmets. Living up to the standards of all the other helmets provided at Helmets R US, these are the perfect addition to a motorcyclist’s attire.

With such a wide selection of motorcycle helmets to choose from, Helmets R Us is committed to meeting the personal helmet needs of their customers. In addition, the Helmets R Us dedication to customer service has ensured the existence of a knowledgeable and friendly in-house staff.

Whether you’re a seasoned motorcycle rider or a novice, Helmets R Us has all the helmets and expertise you need to make your ride a memorable one.

For more information on one of Americas leading retailers of DOT helmets and motorcycle helmets, visit HelmetsRUs.

Ten Things To Consider When Purchasing A New Motorcycle Helmet

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Whether you are a new cyclist, getting your favorite rider a new helmet as a gift, or an experienced rider considering a change of headgear, there are a few basic issues to consider before you purchase your new motorcycle helmet.

1.) Does it pass the safety tests? – That snazzy new brain bucket may look good, but it’ll be of little use if it doesn’t meet certain safety standard regulations. The US Department of Transportation requires that all helmets meet certain standards, such as impact absorption, penetration prevention and strap stability. When a helmet is manufactured to meet these standards, the DOT puts a neat little sticker right on it (or the box) declaring so. A DOT certification should be the minimum standard to look for.

2.) Does it pass the roll off test? – Your helmet should not be so loose that you can roll it off the front of your head when it is properly fastened. To perform a roll-off test, secure the helmet to your head. Grasp the back of the helmet and try to pull it forward over your face. If it comes off, even though it hurts your ears in doing so, the helmet is not a proper fit or style for you.

3.) Does it stay put? – To check the fit on your helmet, as quickly as possible shake your head as if trying to touch your ear to your shoulder, from side to side as if saying a big “No” and from back to front touching your chin to your chest. If the helmet stays in place, it fits. If not, either look for another helmet, or see if there’s a way to make yours fit better. Many helmets come with advice for giving them a snug, safe fit. Your dealer may be able to help, too..

4.) Is it comfortable? – Now, some riders will tell you that there is no such thing as a comfortable helmet. We’ll not debate that here, but we will say that the more helmets you try on, the better your odds of finding one you like. Full-face motorcycle helmets are considered more comfortable by most riders who have tried them. Comfort levels increase with the quality of the brand and the cost of the helmet, too. The things to avoid are squeezing of the ears, pressure at the crown and/or forehead, and any general “hard points” in the helmet. Visit several dealers or shops. Try on lots of different brands and models. Put them all through the roll-off and head-shake tests, too, to ensure that fit and safety are a factor as well as comfort. Leave a helmet on for 15 minutes or so, to allow it to “settle” on your head. Next to your saddle, it’ll be your biggest source of comfort or discomfort while riding.

5.) What’s it cover? – Full-face helmets are considered the safest and most comfortable of the lot. Flip-face, modular, or system motorcycle helmets are a good marriage between the open-faced models and the full-faced ones. Open-face models can expose the rider to facial injuries in a crash, and studies have shown that riders who suffer facial injuries are 3 times more likely to suffer brain injury, as well. When considering a new helmet, remember that one day your chin could be bouncing off the pavement.

6.) What about the face shield? – It should seal the helmet all the way around the edges to prevent wind leakage. It should have VESC – 8 and ANSI Z – 87 safety standards, usually molded right into it. It should be easy to operate, raising easily and staying up without dropping. Look for any sight-distorting imperfections. Most shields offer UV protection to some degree. A tinted face shield might be a good addition, for those really sunny rides.

7.) Any convenience features? – Does it come with a storage bag? Does it have an extra face shield? How easy is it to change the face shields? Will the strap end stay where it’s supposed to or is it going to flap in the wind? How easy is it going to be to remove and wash the lining? Take your helmet for a test drive. Attempt to change the face shield. Mess with the strap. Take the lining out. Short of dropping it from the roof to test its scratch resistance, see just how many convenience features your helmet has, and whether or not they are really convenient for you.

8.) Any comfort features? You thought we’d already discussed comfort, hadn’t you? Well, there are things that can make a helmet more comfortable like vents, padded straps and variable thickness inner padding. What one rider may consider comfortable, another might find constricting.

9.) Looks? Everybody wants the coolest looking dome on the street, but beware that the more graphics and colors used increases the price significantly. If you find one that passes all your criteria for the “perfect” helmet, but it’s astronomically priced, ask if its available in a solid color. If you plan on custom painting, your best bet is solid white. The brighter the color, the more other drivers will notice you, so you may want to consider red, yellow or even orange. Some motorcycle manufacturers offer limited helmet color schemes to match each year’s bikes. Some helmet companies do, too.

10.) Cost? So, your quest has led you to a helmet with a price tag so high it’s going to drain your bank account. What now? Well, take note of the bit above about graphics. Try to negotiate with your dealer. He’s invested a lot of time into you, helping you try on different helmets, get the right fit etc. It may be worth it to him to lower the price a bit. See if you can get a slightly less-tricked-out model. Don’t sacrifice comfort or safety for the sake of a few bucks, but if you can afford a less-expensive model with fewer convenience features, go for it!

You may actually put more time and effort and energy into buying your new helmet than you did your bike. But it’ll be worth it in the long ride.

Motorcycle Gear Checklist For Safe Riding.

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Besides selecting your ideal motorcycle, there are a few other items that are almost as essential if you want to enjoy yourself fully. Riding safely and comfortably can make the difference between enjoying the ride and anxiously trying to get where you are going. There are several pieces of equipment that you need to keep your ride as safe and pleasant as possible.

The Helmet
The debate over the right of states to mandate helmets aside; they save lives and prevent injuries and you should choose to wear one. When purchasing a helmet, first and foremost do not buy a used helmet. You have no way of knowing if the helmet has been in an accident and if it has it is considered compromised and manufacturers recommend it be discarded (although many allow you to return the helmet for a discount on a new helmet). Next, make sure to research your helmet options. This research includes fit, weight, the ability to customize internal padding, ventilation, and fog-proof visors to name a few of the features. The helmet should feel comfortable and secure and you should be able to move your head readily without it shifting and without losing your balance from a helmet that is too heavy. This is not the time to bargain shop, look for DOT and Snell ratings to ensure that your helmet has met safety standards.

The Jacket
A compulsory part of the equipment of any safe motorcyclist is a jacket. The jacket provides the rider with protection from the weather, flying road debris. Today, jackets are made from leather or synthetic materials and usually have padding on the elbow, spine and shoulders. This padding will help to protect the rider from impact by providing cushion for the areas that are most likely to be points of impact in a crash. Regardless of your choice of leather or synthetic options, it is imperative that the jacket fit snugly to prevent it from moving out of position, twisting or riding up during a crash. All other features, such as waterproofing, ventilation and pockets should be second to proper fit. However, once you determine the correct fit you should feel free to explore the wide range of features now available in jackets.

The Riding Gloves
Riding gloves are also extremely important pieces of your safety equipment. A motorcyclists hands are often the first body part to be injured during a crash and they deserve special consideration as well. The gloves should fit snugly so that they will not fall off but have enough ventilation that your hands do not become sweaty. They should fit well and feel good enough that you will not want to remove them mid-ride or will not want to put them on at all. There are dozens of features in motorcycle gloves and they all contribute to comfort; wrist straps, washable liners, insulation for cooler temperatures and water resistance are just a few.

The Pants
Riding pants, like the motorcycle jacket offer the rider protection from the weather, debris kicked up from the road and the road itself. These pants come with built in padding in the knees, hips and seat, options for additional padding, ventilation, stretch panels and higher waistlines and/or zippering and attachment options to the jacket for maximum coverage of the body. The pants are offered in both leather and synthetic options and complete the look and the full protection that proper riding equipment has to offer.

Regardless of the style, material or features that you decide upon for your motorcycle gear, spending the time to research your equipment and investing the money in your personal safety will both contribute to an optimal riding experience that lasts for years to come.