New Helmet Advice

[ThinkAgain]

Since I can't stay on my bike and I smacked my head on the concrete (thankfully in a helmet), I'll be replacing it now (the helmet . . . not my head).  I had a KBC VR-1.  The fit was great, but the size and shape always bugged me.  I'd like a more form fitting helmet (instead of the "contoured" back side).  I'm looking at the KBC Vision for $200, but I also found the Shoei RF-900 for $250.  Any thoughts on these two helmets?  Any better prices to be had anywhere on the net?  Anything screwy I should know about the fit of one or the other?

[spotswood_suzuki]

Don't know much about those helmets...I have an Arai Quantum F and really like it.  I was able to pick it up at my local Suzuki dealer for $330 last year.  I know you can't get Arai's on the web anymore, but I think that several people have said that Helmet Harbor has good prices.

Wayne

[vtlion]

Good to hear that you decided to replace the brain-bucket!!!  

I think that in your case you did the right thing, but don't believe that crap about replacing after a drop from seat-hight... In my opinion, within reasonable tolerances only a good, solid, compressive shock from BOTH sides will do a helmet in.  Yes, all you veterans, I understand the physics of compression and the chemical composition of polyurethane, polystyrene and all of the standard foams... once compressed is forever compressed.... just don't go throwing your helmet against a wall, or your head against your helmet, and you should be fine until you have an accident WHILE WEARING your helmet (which you did).  During the adrenaline rush of (and after) your accident, you have no idea how much compressive force your head/the road delivered to your noggin' saver.  No matter how it may look or feel, its protective capabilities could be compromised.

I've always gone with the cheapest DOT approved route... and i've bumped mine against many door jambs and many other obstacles... still, mine's a Fulmer that I paid 95 bucks for and I trust it with my life.

hey... if you can't trust the Dept. of Transportation, who wan you trus...... uh.....

.... come to think of it... what brand did you say you were buying?!  

vtlion is 100% correct, no matter what you pay as long as the thing is DOT approved you wont go wrong.

However this said, for the added money you get benefits, like anything in life you get what you pay for. A few of these benefits for a new helmet that cost $200-$400 rather then $90 bucks are:

1) Lighter - makes long rides and highway speeds much more comfortable

2) Ventilation - the more expensive the helmet the better ventilation they have, the Quantum is a top helmet, has vents on the visor even!

3) Padding - more expensive helmets have lining that is removable so it can be replaced/washed - excellent idea!

4) Quality of materials - the better the quality, the longer the helmet is going to feel like new and comfortable on you

5) Looks - the least of the things that should be of importance, but we all want to look good, and the paint jobs/graphics on more expensive helmets cant be beat. I have seen some HJC and the like that have graphics that look like they have been drawn on by crayon.

Pay as much as your budget will allow, just make sure you get one that fits right, tight, but no pressure on the back of your head or your forehead

Stay Safe  

[vtlion]

PAAAAAAAAHREACH IT, KEYZER!!!!!    

[RedFuelDlux]

I've had many helmets ,but my new M2R MR1000 really impresses me the most. It has all the features of the high priced guys and the comfort is bar none.  

[snapper]

I have an RF-900.. its quiet and comfortable for my head shape.  :mrgreen:

[scratch]

The Shoei would be an excellent helmet! Quiet. Great ventilation! The best!

[ThinkAgain]

Thanks for the input, all of you.  I like the fit of the Shoei, but the KBC is $50 less and the dark silver matches my bike.  I may just save the money this time.  I'll be having the bike repainted and need the extra money for that.  

In fact, I may just go down to my cycle shop and get one of the helmets for around $100.  He has one that is DOT and SNELL approved for that price, but I can't remember what it is right now.  Since I'm having the bike repainted anyway, ,aybe I shouldn't even try to match my current color.

I don't know. . . I'll drive over and see how that cheap helmet fits and then decide.

[ThinkAgain]

Well, so much for that idea!  All that he had in stock were flip-up helmets and Quantums!  I'm not too sure about a moveable chin bar if I go into the pavement face first, and the Quantums are not in my price-range.

Anyone had any experience with Icon helmets?  Just noticed their Alliance helmets are pretty affordable and getting good reviews.

I'm kind of nervous about buying a helmet on-line, but I went to four dealers today and couldn't find anything but Harley-looking half helmets and off road gear!  Sometimes living in the south is frustrating!  I'll have to head about 30 minutes away to actually try some decent helmets on, but I think it'd be worth it to get the right fit.

Wish me luck!

[ThinkAgain]

What color is Shoei's "Anthracite" anyway?

[Fastdog]

One-color Shoei 900's are $252.95 at //www.helmetharbor.com with free shipping.  I got mine from there; no problems!