There are plenty opinions out there. I want to hear yours.
1- What helmet do you wear - how much was it? Do you like/hate it?
2- Have you tried the expensive brands: Shoei, AGV, Arai. Is it worth 3x or even 5x the price? :dunno_white:
The cop out answer of buy what fits best and what you like.. I get that.
I want to learn from your experience. That's what this community is about!
Thanks! :thumb:
Trae
I havent used any recent good brand helmets.I always buy cheapies for myself.
However a friend from church uses those folding BMW system helmets.They tried one and were incredibly impressed with the low noise levels,so much so they forked out big $ for two of them- one each for the husband and wife.
As for the safety argument(because someone WILL bring it up),just remember two things: 1.all helmets meet government safety tests. 2.The better helmets EXCEED those safety tests,so they are nearly always better than the cheapies
I wear an hjc-is17. Bought it because of the helmets I tried on, it was the best fit. Don't remember what I paid, got it on sale for maybe 120? Love that helmet to bits. Vents adequately, fits me very well, convenient integrated visor, and looks pretty OK.
Have not tried more expensive helmets... But I may end up looking for a SNELL certified in a while.
HJC Sy-Max 3 flip-helmet,bought new au$370.
Not quite as strong as a non flip helmet,but when flipped i'v had absolutely no security hassles with service stations,etc.
Very comfortable,with 3 position internal sun visor,bluetooth ready.
I've had versions 1 & 2,& 3 is the best.
http://www.revzilla.com/product/hjc-symax-3-helmet?gclid=CI7EscyE1MICFUQJvAodBKoAHA
[attachment deleted by admin]
I've ridden with Nolan, Schuberth, no-name eBay, Arai, Scorpion, quite a variety.
I currently have a $35 TMS and an Arai that cost 12X that amount. The Arai has better venting, visor, visibility, noise levels, fit, finish, parts availability, and interior. It's actually a better value than a TMS, a helmet less expensive than a replacement Arai visor...
The question is, would I buy another Arai vs. a Schuberth at the same price? Maybe. A Shoei at 75%? Hm it's getting tougher. A Nolan at 50%? Maybe not. Diminishing returns come to play.
If I had $100 I'd buy an intro Bell or Scorpion.
At $200, I'd buy an AGV or Nolan.
At $300, I'd buy a Shoei or Suomy.
At $400, I'd buy a Nexx, Shark or Arai.
Above that I'd buy Schuberth or Arai.
I only wear full face. I'm not comfortable with modulars in principle. YMMV.
I don't believe DOT helmets meet DOT standards. The program relies on the honor system. SNELL and ECE do not, so I prefer either.
All this from a man who owns a $35 TMS... Funny, eh?
The Arai visor system is a crime against humanity. It's also stylish and unnecessary; Arai car helmets don't use it, just bike helmets. The car helmets are approved for Formula 1 so it's not like the side pods are necessary for safety. Also the Arai sun shade system is laughable. It's an external add on rather than an internal visor, in the name of safety... Yet Schuberth uses internals, as does Nolan etc. and neither firm is out to kill paying customers... Still I'd buy another Arai if I had the money.
BTW colour makes a difference! White is cooler and that's crucial to me. I buy light colours because of the heat. Added visibility won't hurt either I suppose.
Currently have a Shoei xr-1000. Great helmet imo. I've had a KBC, AVG and Caberg and like the Shoei the most. Lower noise levels than the others, although they, re not that low, better overall fit, better finish, better visor, better ventilation and so on. They are all full face.
For safety... I havent't checked and I really hope I won't have to but I assume that the higher the class is the better. :)
For me it was worth the price. :)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I have about 5 helmets at home.
3 of them below $45.
They're great helmets for the city. Light weight, don't have a lot of options though...
Like, no, or few air vents.
What makes them great for the city, is they're more than enough to do their job upto 50MPH.
Taking them past 80MPH they become uncomfortable. One has a 'parachute' effect, where the helmet gets wind in, and wants to lift off my head. It pulls the strap on my chin, and can hurt at speeds above 80MPH.
The other 2 are thin, and start vibrating with wind gusts. They feel too thin , and feel unsafe at those speeds.
Also, 2 of the 3 are noisy on the highway(don't mute a lot of wind noise).
2 of the 3 are full helmets, and 1 of the 2 full helmets has fogging problems when standing still on a cold day.
I have 2 other helmets, one of $60, and one of $125.
Both of them are modular helmets.
The 125 overall is the best quality. Almost noiseless, and sits and feels solid.
Both helmets feel significantly heavier than the $35 helmets. (no branders). Not only the modular latch, but also the thickness of the helmet shell is much safer on the more expensive helmet. Some of the cheaper helmets I can bend the plastic somewhat when pressing it between my hands hard. The $60+ helmets I have are rock hard.
One of the 2 modular helmets has a cheap latch, but both feel about the same in comfort.
The most expensive one, has a red LED in the back, that can be turned on, off, or flashing.
I'd say for speeds below 50, $35 helmets are 'good enough'. Not luxury quality, but good enough.
For highway and interstate speeds, I would get a $100 helmet minimum.
There are helmets that have Bluetooth in them, which could raise the price some more, and it might be interesting if you're riding with 2, to have an intercom system built in.
But safety wise, $100 helmets are pretty good for most day to day riding.
Like most I've had everything from cheapies to expensive. As long as they are certified I guess you are O.K., think you pay the extra dollars for comfort.
Currently have a Nolan flip face. It's comfortable but a little heavy for long trips.
Use a new Shoei most of the time. Fits good and is fairly light. Just happen to have a Suzuki one that matches my bike.
Got hit a couple of years ago and went down wearing a Shoei. There was a deep gauge down one side of the helmet .....that would have been my head so I'm sold on helmets even ware one when I'm some place that doesn't require it.
When you pay more for a helmet you usually get a fancier paint job. You also get a smaller shell but the same protection as a larger shell.
What protects you is the EPS liner. A bigger shell obviously has more of it and hence helps.
You should get a snell (latest rated) one and if you can deal with the larger size shell its OK get the cheaper one.
I am a bit opposed to a shell that is Plastic - as in ABS plastic. But its really not much worse than any other material. I like to atleast get polycarbonate, aramid, kevlar or fiberglass.
Cool.
Buddha.
http://blm.io/blog/motorcycle-helmet-safety-price/
There... above... is a bunch of research on cost vs safety...I'm not sure that you can come to any conclusion however, as some expensive helmets are not the best and some cheap helmets are rated highly...
There are many similar web sites...
Cookie
Yea if you look into it a bit more in detail, considering more than just price vs rating, you'd find that bigger shells relative to head size = better. Of course unless you're a 160 mph GP racer, that is irrelevant, and some materials inherently work better like fiber glass and kevlar and blends there of.
Past that, graphics and brand name, and extras like the flip down visor etc etc.
Oh yea comfort and fit and shape of head as well as venting matter a lot in the real world and that may totally trump anything else.
Cool.
Buddha.
I do not believe DOT is a useful certification for low end helmets. It is useful merely for high end helmets. Cheapies can merely paint on a symbol, and hope nobody checks. There is no enforcement at the manufacturer level.
SNELL 2010+ is useful but ONLY in shell sizes where the rate of negative acceleration is within acceptable parms. To me this means XL or higher. Also, Cheapies are hard to track because the same helmet is sold under nine brand names, and only one may be listed by SNELL.
I'm torn on SNELL >2010 but they're still car legal in many classes until 2015 hits.
Every single ECE helmet I have seen in the USA has been... illegal and NOT an actual ECE helmet. To be legal the ECE # must be sewn in, and US versions don't do that. This means if an American takes his ECE US helmet to the EU the helmet is not legal. In some locales the fine exceeds the cost of a GS500.
I'm unfamiliar with BSI helmet ratings.
i wear bilt helmets from cyclegear.
saved my head once recently when i bounced off an SUV that cut me off. So as long as it's DOT and ECE I would buy it and wear it.
Anybody remember the original Schuberth Speed that had divets like a golf ball? They didn't use a wind tunnel, they figured if it's good for aero on a golf ball lets sell it. I'd love to have one today!
Am coveting an Arai Defiant, interested in the new chin intake compared to my old Arai.
Quote from: Rallyfan on December 20, 2014, 04:20:52 PM
Anybody remember the original Schuberth Speed that had divets like a golf ball? They didn't use a wind tunnel, they figured if it's good for aero on a golf ball lets sell it. I'd love to have one today!
Am coveting an Arai Defiant, interested in the new chin intake compared to my old Arai.
lol i want one (http://www.schuberth.com/fileadmin/Bilder/Motorrad/S2/90_Jahre/22_big.jpg)
Yes!
It's modernistic and antiquated at the same time, a lot like my GS500F in fact!
Those were the days!
To be fair modern helmets are safer Nd more comfortable than 80s technology... but I still want that Schuberth...
as long as its approved by your DOT. or high, its good.
more money is just fancy paint, and less wind noise..
though, there are some decent cheap helmets out there that offer very good wind noise protection.
I don't believe in DOT approvals for no-name helmets because the regulation is poor IMO.
However I do like my $35 helmet, though I prefer my more expensive one.
Scorpion and Bell both make entry level helmets I would readily trust and they're reasonably quiet too. In fact the loudest I've tried was a Suomy at 3X the price.
Inexpensive can be safe; I just doubt DOT actually is DOT below $40.
https://rideapart.com/articles/when-motorcycle-helmets-look-like-golf-balls
The Speed was all the money. Things were different! Riding along on a Cub50 I'd daydream about an FJ1100 or better still, an RG500Γ and an RD500LC (I wanted both...). Meanwhile my actual helmet... didn't exist. I'd borrow!
Sooooo....
The answer to the original question: "Are expensive helmets worth it?"
No
Yes
Maybe
It depends
(choose the answer you like)
Cookie
Quote from: GatorTrae on December 19, 2014, 08:39:18 PM
There are plenty opinions out there. I want to hear yours.
1- What helmet do you wear - how much was it? Do you like/hate it?
2- Have you tried the expensive brands: Shoei, AGV, Arai. Is it worth 3x or even 5x the price? :dunno_white:
The cop out answer of buy what fits best and what you like.. I get that.
I want to learn from your experience. That's what this community is about!
Thanks! :thumb:
Trae
I think my helmets are excellent examples. One is eBay >$50, the other is an Arai.
Which is safer?
To find an actual answer we'd have to look at statistically significant data from incidents involving each, account for differences in conditions, and figure out whether my skull would fair better in one helmet vs the other for each case. We've now gone beyond certification testing. Both the cheap and expensive helmet say they meet DOT standards. Let's assume for the sake of argument this is true for both (I have my doubts). Beyond that standard there are no data to compare, so even if all helmets that are stated as DOT approved do provide DOT protection, I wonder whether some exceed that in a meaningful way.
I'll leave it to others to speculate whether the eBay helmet or the Arai is more likely to exceed DOT specs and/or otherwise provide more meaningful protection. Previously I listed my shopping choices at all price points, so I'm not a helmet snob, but on the other hand it's probably not entirely fair to dismiss a Shoei or a Schuberth as simply having better paint than an eBay Special. I don't shop based only on finish or even on comfort.
The short answer is "maybe."
good comments...
Notice that the OP asked if they were "worth It"...not necessarily if they were safer...
Safety is only one aspect of a helmet...
We spend hours and hours riding with a helmet on...hopefully we never crash..
So things like comfort, durability, weight, visor operation, ventilation, noise, sound system, communications, and even graphics all matter to some degree...
So...the helmet you choose and the price you pay is pretty much subjective....this is why there are so many choices and so many price ranges...
Back to safety......
First of all....ANY helmet is way safer than no helmet in a crash...that being said...I would think that any reputable brand...even the cheapo models...would offer tremendous crash protection vs no helmet at all.........The increase in safety possible in a very expensive model, is going to be only marginally better.....
I think of it this way...if we could create a "protection scale" for 1 to 100.....1 being the least protection and 100 being theoretically impervious..
Riding without a helmet would rate a 1..
A cheepo but reputable brand would probably rate 60 to 75
The best ever helmet would rate maybe 85 (100 being impossible)
Also in a severe crash there is no helmet which is going to save you....just a fact of life of a motorcyclist..
The certification tests are just that...not necessarily what will happen to you in real life...(250 g's to the head passes Snell...but how's that gonna feel when it happens to you?)
So my final answer: "It depends"
Cookie
Quote from: Rallyfan on December 21, 2014, 06:25:01 AM
I think my helmets are excellent examples. One is eBay >$50, the other is an Arai.
Which is safer?
To find an actual answer we'd have to look at statistically significant data from incidents involving each, account for differences in conditions, and figure out whether my skull would fair better in one helmet vs the other for each case. We've now gone beyond certification testing. Both the cheap and expensive helmet say they meet DOT standards. Let's assume for the sake of argument this is true for both (I have my doubts). Beyond that standard there are no data to compare, so even if all helmets that are stated as DOT approved do provide DOT protection, I wonder whether some exceed that in a meaningful way.
I'll leave it to others to speculate whether the eBay helmet or the Arai is more likely to exceed DOT specs and/or otherwise provide more meaningful protection. Previously I listed my shopping choices at all price points, so I'm not a helmet snob, but on the other hand it's probably not entirely fair to dismiss a Shoei or a Schuberth as simply having better paint than an eBay Special. I don't shop based only on finish or even on comfort.
The short answer is "maybe."
Aye as in patricks case :(. Bout the only thing that might have worked would have been a HANS device. used in racing. part of the risk we assume with this mode of transportation
Worth it? ... aside from the safety (or lack thereof) certifications. ..
Worth is a individual/personal viewpoint! Based on what the individual gets for the money they were able to spend at the time ...
The worth of any helmet is in how comfortable you feel wearing that particular helmet and about what features you purchased it for, then how well those features perform or fail
I will always choose function/comfort over form/ looks if things are tight budget wise... if I can find a helmet that meets my comfort and gizmo expectation then 'chubby time'... if that helmet also happens to have a awesome graphics option or 'badass! All my mates will be jelly!' Shape/style then 'double chubby time' lol
Example. .. a close friend has a awesome chain & skull & barbed wire graphic on his helmet... it does look fantastic when you see it... and it is a good helmet overall. .. but it squeezes his head wrong, doesn't ventilated too well a lot of the time, he comes out of the helmet looking like an annoyed sweaty squirrel! ...
His plain white HJC helmet. .. well it's plain white! ... but it fits his head like a lover's massage and when he takes it off he is smiling about how good it is to wear... no sweat, no headache, no imprinted pattern on his cheeks....
But he wears the hot graphics one a whole lot more cos it gets comments
Which helmet is 'worth' it?
Whoops... my helmet. .. Nolan N102 flip face. .. comfort yes!, features not bad (though the built-in dock for the Ncom electronics is theoretically cool, the electronic kits are $$$) , came With pinlock included yes!,........ Wind noise at speed- CRAP! , weight- heavyish (1792g?)
Overall I like it a lot more than I loathe the wind noise!
Really want to try the new N104. .. but what if it's noisy also? .. I need also to find someone who has owned both before I lay down $400 Aussie! ... the 104's do have basic graphics tho... the 102's only had a limited range of paint only!
Well, i dont know if its a safe helmet or not, but it is EU marked for motorcycles.
I use this one from LS2
(http://www.motoatacado.com.br/thumbs/YToyOntzOjE6InEiO2k6OTU7czozOiJzcmMiO3M6Mjk6ImltZy9wcm9kdXRvcy9wcm9kdXRvcy8zMzcuanBnIjt9/img.jpg)
What i can say about it is that its not that much of a windcatcher under 120 kph. i rarely go faster than 120 (dont ride highway too often) and i must say that i think for under that speed this semi cross helmet looks very nice, and isnt too uncomfy.
Ive used a moto helmet in times past testing out a gs. L ok ved the built in sunvisor :D
I often wonder why off road helmets have sun visor and on road not....
I guess it is due to higher speeds on road and the air grabbing the visor?
My weekend commute is to the NE early in the morning and return to the SW late in the day...sun in the eyes both ways! Visor would be nice!
Cookie
Quote from: Krav on December 23, 2014, 02:45:22 AM
Well, i dont know if its a safe helmet or not, but it is EU marked for motorcycles.
I use this one from LS2
(http://www.motoatacado.com.br/thumbs/YToyOntzOjE6InEiO2k6OTU7czozOiJzcmMiO3M6Mjk6ImltZy9wcm9kdXRvcy9wcm9kdXRvcy8zMzcuanBnIjt9/img.jpg)
What i can say about it is that its not that much of a windcatcher under 120 kph. i rarely go faster than 120 (dont ride highway too often) and i must say that i think for under that speed this semi cross helmet looks very nice, and isnt too uncomfy.
Not wanting to piss in anybody's Cheerios or anything, but seeing that most MC accidents are rider induced I would say don't crash, but to answer the question I buy the cheapies.
Quote from: GatorTrae on December 19, 2014, 08:39:18 PM
The cop out answer of buy what fits best . . .
Disagree that's a "cop out". I doubt that the protective value varies all that much between helmet brands, so I don't see any criteria that's more important than fit. By fit, I would include dimensions relative to one's head size/shape, weight, and noise level. For me that happened to be a rather pricey Shoei the last go round.
Quote from: Janx101 on December 23, 2014, 02:32:34 AM
Whoops... my helmet. .. Nolan N102 flip face. .. comfort yes!, features not bad (though the built-in dock for the Ncom electronics is theoretically cool, the electronic kits are $$$) , came With pinlock included yes!,........ Wind noise at speed- CRAP! , weight- heavyish (1792g?)
SNIP.....
Janx, I have had an N103 for the past couple years. As far as the electronic kit goes(Ncom I believe?) : I found a Chinese clone on eBay for some ridiculously low price.....I think $25 shipped. I remember seeing the picture of it on eBay and thinking "That thing looks almost identical to the Nolan version.....". After it showed up from China I realized they even copied the helmet mount and everything. Don't know if that's any help to you, but just thought I'd get it out there.
Quote from: twocool on December 21, 2014, 06:00:46 AM
Sooooo....
The answer to the original question: "Are expensive helmets worth it?"
No
Yes
Maybe
It depends
(choose the answer you like)
Cookie
Quote from: GatorTrae on December 19, 2014, 08:39:18 PM
There are plenty opinions out there. I want to hear yours.
1- What helmet do you wear - how much was it? Do you like/hate it?
2- Have you tried the expensive brands: Shoei, AGV, Arai. Is it worth 3x or even 5x the price? :dunno_white:
The cop out answer of buy what fits best and what you like.. I get that.
I want to learn from your experience. That's what this community is about!
Thanks! :thumb:
Trae
Seeing that I'm a defensive rider, ride mostly alone, and at speed limits (occasionally faster, but most of the time I behave), and in fl it's too hot to wear a helmet outside of winter; adding to the fact that I can enjoy giving up minor quality (eg wind noise, seating comfort, fogging) for some $$$, I would say they (expensive helmets) are not worth it.
If you are living in colder regions, where screen fogging is an issue, or ride with 2 and need intercom; or you're the type of person who rides his bike once a year, and have one of those humongous bagger bikes, and want top quality, top dollar, you may want to go with the more expensive helmets.
I enjoy my ride, I use it as weekly/weekend commuter and on my days off.
My bike has no less than 1 month stand still, most of the time 3-4 rides per week.
I don't care about how it looks like, I care about the enjoyment of my ride.
Ironically, I use my helmet more than people keeping their bike in the stable all year, save for 2 weeks in the summer, and I don't even want a fancy helmet.
$100 helmets are super! $35 helmets are good enough (save for the tracks or the 70+mph highways).
When my fiancee and I were buying our first bikes some 5 years ago, we obviously had to get all the appropriate gear. We shelled out a total of $1,600 AUD for 2 helmets, one each. Two Shark helmets, mine a 4 star rated, hers a 5 star rated. It was piece of mind for me. I wanted to do everything I could to ensure both her and my safety should anything happen. Buying a helmet which met more regulations/tests seemed like the best way to do it. The only reason I got a 4 star instead of a 5 star is I couldn't find a 5 star helmet that fit my fat head with my glasses on.
I honestly don't think I'd be comfortable with a cheaper and "less safe" (read; AS1698 approved only, no further testing) helmet. I've used a friends HJC helmet to get his bike home after he lowsided and broke his collarbone. Nice snug fit, but it was damn noisy and I felt it was too light, almost like there was nothing in it. It's just styrofoam and a plastic shell. It might have met recommendations, but it didn't met my standards.
So to answer the original question, are expensive helmets worth it? In my mind, yes. I think two helmets I bought were worth every cent.
OP here.
Thanks for all the comments. I currently have a Vega something helmet. It was about $100. I've had it for two years and never 'tested' it.
My buddy did go down this summer and wacked his Bilt helmet on the ground. he's fine but the helmet was not. I think his was around a hundred also.
I am interested in a new helmet and found I wanted better ventilation and reduced wind noise than what I have now. I found tons of options from $50-$750. Some with better stated protection standards than others. I like an earlier post referencing the typical diminishing returns of protection as the cost increases. While protection is expected, other factors are important. So after searching I've decided on this one.
http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/bell-rs-1-rsd-flash-bronze-helmet?gclid=Cj0KEQiAwuSkBRC7qKq8rr7796sBEiQA5VnSuEakA0hT89OVPfXPk5Yj9yTI5yuE_ubjpRr0SQ8oBbwaAoZ88P8HAQ (http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/bell-rs-1-rsd-flash-bronze-helmet?gclid=Cj0KEQiAwuSkBRC7qKq8rr7796sBEiQA5VnSuEakA0hT89OVPfXPk5Yj9yTI5yuE_ubjpRr0SQ8oBbwaAoZ88P8HAQ)
It's half off, has a great brand reputation and looks amazing. The one catch was the sizing. I'm a Large size per them but that's out of stock. Measured head size at 79cm. I went to Cycle Gear and expected to try on an RS1. Well they didn't have it. But the girl said that Seven0Seven was the same manufacturer and they had some of those. I tried a large and it was too big, the medium fit good. So I went home and clicked the order button. Also got a smokeshield with it.
If I doesn't fit, I'll return it. No big deal.
Again thanks for the comments.
:icon_mrgreen:
Another vote for HJC; I've had numerous HJC helmets over the years. Decent quality, not very expensive. Some are quite good looking too.
This thread is costing me money. I'm now shopping Arai Vector, Arai Defiant, Schuberth S2, Nolan N86.
I figure a new shield for my old Arai is $50, so why not use the money for a new helmet... Sigh...
Quote from: Rallyfan on December 24, 2014, 12:02:02 PM
This thread is costing me money. I'm now shopping Arai Vector, Arai Defiant, Schuberth S2, Nolan N86.
I figure a new shield for my old Arai is $50, so why not use the money for a new helmet... Sigh...
lmao. Aint that the truth
I just realized that I only buy helmets that have 3 letters of the alphabet in the name, THH, HJC and AFX :sad:
Z1R
Two letters one numeral...
Cookie
Quote from: Suzuki Stevo on December 24, 2014, 12:36:42 PM
I just realized that I only buy helmets that have 3 letters of the alphabet in the name, THH, HJC and AFX :sad:
Quote from: Suzuki Stevo on December 24, 2014, 12:36:42 PM
I just realized that I only buy helmets that have 3 letters of the alphabet in the name, THH, HJC and AFX :sad:
this my friend was me too. Except for the icon
So this new helmet arrived already. WOW fast shipping from Revzilla. I didn't even pay extra for fast shipping. Very surprised it's here. So I immediately unboxed it and tried it on. First of all, it comes in a helmet bag with red fuzzies on the inside, way cool! Second the sparkle on this graphic is excellent. It is a tight fit. I expected that 1- its new and not broken in at all 2- it's possibly a little too small. After about five or eight minutes I noticed I could feel my pulse in my head. I think it's too tight.
**** How do you know if it's just a snug fit because it's new or is it just too small? ***
I guess I'll try it on again and wear it for a while around the house.
Thanks!
That is pretty impressive
Quote from: Rallyfan on December 24, 2014, 12:02:02 PM
This thread is costing me money. I'm now shopping Arai Vector, Arai Defiant, Schuberth S2, Nolan N86.
I figure a new shield for my old Arai is $50, so why not use the money for a new helmet... Sigh...
Hey!
I've had my N86 for a year and somewhere between 8-10k km now.
It's amazing! It's just so comfy once you got it on. Excellent pinlock shield (you can ride in foggy weather in single digit temps[°C] and actually see.. well, what you can see from the fog :D ), built-in sun visor that's just perfect (easy to handle wearing gloves, instruments right under its edge if you're looking ahead), and ventillation is so that if you close it, well you still don't suffocate, and if you open it, it's like actual wind inside that full-face baby!
Lock is easy to handle, too. 99% of the time I use it with a mask underneath (many reasons to do so), but no complaints on my side now that I haven't been able to find it for the last few days.
In my humble opinion, it was totally worth the price.
Yes I'm impressed with Nolan full faces. I'm looking seriously at N86 vs. Schuberth. I think Nolans are excellent products. Thanks for the impressions!
30 hour free shipping I'm impressed. I really love the helmet and wish it fit. unfortunately after a short while of wearing it in the house i could tell it's just too small. If it was in the large size it would be wrapped and under the tree. But it's now back in the box and will be sent back. If the return process goes well; I'll definitely shop with Revzilla again.
I checked on the Nolan n86 mentioned above. It's about the same price point, and has a drop down sun visor. However the ratings for wind noise are poor. Does that seem accurate to you Rallyfan?
thanks
I wear ear plugs always so I'm not qualified to answer fully, sorry. Check webbikeworld for tests.
The plugs attenuate high frequencies most so I can't comment on whistling. However the older N85 was quieter overall than my TMS, and was comparable with my Arai. With either and the plugs I cannot hear any engines except mine (Jardine exhaust) and I hear only large tyre roar, so big rigs only, not cars. The wind is a subdued woosh.
I'd say above average quiet for mid and liw frequencies and ? for the highs due to my plugs. There may be a typhoon going on in the highs and I can't tell.
Quote from: Suzuki Stevo on December 24, 2014, 12:36:42 PM
I just realized that I only buy helmets that have 3 letters of the alphabet in the name, THH, HJC and AFX :sad:
i only buy helmets with 3 letters D O and T. Lol
Aldi, about fifty bucks, worth about what my head is worth! :icon_mrgreen:
(Best helmet I ever had in 40 years riding).
What does that tell you about expensive helmets?
I ordered a Scorpion EXO500 two weeks ago....$200 list for $80 on closeout...
I guess you would call this a "mid range" priced helmet...but on closeout it was in the "cheepo" range!
When I go t it ...it was just a tad too tight...
Instead of returning it...I just ordered the next-size-up cheek pads...The helmet top part fit good, but the cheeks were too narrow...so now I have a custom fit...did this with my last Z1R helmet too...
The Scorpion has inflators to tighten the cheek pads after you put on the helmet....so now the helmet goes on reasonably easily, and I can tighten it up if needed....
Revzilla is a good company...
Most Internet Motorcycle companies realize the problem with buying stuff like helmets and boots without trying them on first...so they all have liberal exchange policies...just takes a couple extra days if you have to return something...
Cookie
Quote from: GatorTrae on December 24, 2014, 07:06:31 PM
30 hour free shipping I'm impressed. I really love the helmet and wish it fit. unfortunately after a short while of wearing it in the house i could tell it's just too small. If it was in the large size it would be wrapped and under the tree. But it's now back in the box and will be sent back. If the return process goes well; I'll definitely shop with Revzilla again.
I checked on the Nolan n86 mentioned above. It's about the same price point, and has a drop down sun visor. However the ratings for wind noise are poor. Does that seem accurate to you Rallyfan?
thanks
Quote from: Rallyfan on December 24, 2014, 05:09:59 PM
Yes I'm impressed with Nolan full faces. I'm looking seriously at N86 vs. Schuberth. I think Nolans are excellent products. Thanks for the impressions!
No problem! :thumb:
Quote from: GatorTrae on December 24, 2014, 07:06:31 PM
I checked on the Nolan n86 mentioned above. It's about the same price point, and has a drop down sun visor. However the ratings for wind noise are poor. Does that seem accurate to you Rallyfan?
thanks
Well question was not directed at me but I'll take the liberty to answer it.
500km (touring+twisties) days are not uncommon for me in the actual 'season'. My weekly commute to university is 120km. My comfortable (for body & soul, lol) cruising speed is 120km/h. At those speeds and distances, I don't
need to wear earplugs, but occasionally (if I'm in the mood for them, or my head already hurts) I do wear them. The wind on the GS500F gets my shoulders first, and most of it hits me right in the face (I'm 183cm tall), so YMMV.
Okay, here is what I know and what I've learned from people with the more expensive helmets.
Having one on is better than none. Full face is always better, modular or not. I never buy cheap helmets that are not snell approved. I currently have a Bell Vortex that is snell approved for street riding, it was $100, and an EVS that is snell approved for dirt. the bell was very quiet for the first month I had it, once the foam shapes to your head it is much louder. passed a certain price point in helmets all you are paying for is better ventilation vision and lower weight, not more protection.
If you are going for very lightweight, yes more expensive helmets are worth it. Same goes if it is very hot and humid where you ride. If you want to be protected and have good ventilation you will be looking for the 200-250 dollar helmets. But, in a high speed crash I honestly do not believe they protect you anymore than my 100 bell helmet would.
Between two helmets offering the same safety ratings though would you not say the lighter of the two would be safer? Acceleration forces can be substantial and less weight could be an advantage.
Safety rating does not mean "safety" or "safer"....
All it means is each helmet passed the minimum standard in a laboratory test....
A lighter weight helmet might be "safer" or a heavier helmet might be "safer".....
Or in certain accidents one may be safer, but in other accidents the other might be safer.....
If I remember my motorcycle school lesson...I think they said that the max speed of impact that a helmet is designed to take is like 7 MPH....the speed your head would hit the ground if you fell off a STATIONARY motorcycle.........
So if you slam your head at 60......you're on your own...
Helmets do a lot to protect against abrasions at higher speeds though...
Back in my Bicycle racing days...our "helmets" were nothing more than 5 padded, but thin, leather straps....great for abrasion...nothing for impact...
Cookie
Quote from: Rallyfan on December 25, 2014, 07:01:58 PM
Between two helmets offering the same safety ratings though would you not say the lighter of the two would be safer? Acceleration forces can be substantial and less weight could be an advantage.
I think the main concern with the recent Snell spec involves helmets >XL in size, and the forces generated based on their mass and acceleration. I've looked at the curves in the past and remember noting that I wasn't comfortable with Snell >2010 for sizes L and lower.
Later Snell ratings are great though and it's now feasible to get Snell and ECE together.
Hello, I've had many hats over the years (sometimes a new one each year) and my findings are not part of the DOT vs SNEL regulation debate. When I get a hat, I do so tongue in cheek because even if I "hate it" I'm probably gonna get a new one next year, and have 9 at home I can wear instead.
My favorite hat HJC if for no other reason than it's POPULAR. If I scratch the visor on a ride, I can normally pop into the local bike shop and they'll have another one. I DO want to get another shoei with the retractable sunglasses built in, but if I scratch the visor, I know I'll end up on the internet because local shops in my area don't carry visors or any parts for upper end caps.
So, have one of each? Is that a good answer to cheap or expensive? :dunno_black:
One of each is what I do, yes.
Human Nature is a funny thing.......
Guys are willing to spend hundreds dollars for a helmet which may, or may not, be marginally (at best) safer than a cheaper one all in the interest of "safety"...
Yet you see those same guys doing some really unsafe things while riding...
We have the false impressions that "safety can be bought"...
Even this false line of reasoning: "well I have the best helmet that money can buy...so I'm gonna go down the road at 90 MPH and pretend I'm a GP racer"
I just love to watch the "squids" with the Guinney Tee shirt, shorts, and tennis shoes...but sporting the $800 helmet!
But in reality, safety comes from within.....Riding safely makes far more difference than if you have a $600 helmet compared to a $100 helmet...
Motorcycle riding is freakin' dangerous...period....But you can do many things to make it as safe as possible...mostly having to do with riding in a safe, sane way....
Safety gear, helmets, jackets, boots etc....only offer very limited protection.....they can keep a small incident small...but in a big wreck...sorry....that gear is not going to do a whole lot to save you....
Cookie
Until data are presented that prove all helmets offer the same level of protection, the impression that safety can be bought cannot be stated as false.
In fact looking back at the thread, I've seen several posts stating that expensive helmets offer more features, including my own; however, I've seen nothing to substantiate that expensive helmets only offer more features.
Moreover it seems reasonable that some of those features do increase safety in and of themselves. My expensive helmet has a thicker, larger, more optically correct visor, for example. This feature certainly contributes toward safety, as does the ventilation that increases comfort -- IOW decreases distraction -- and makes fogging less likely.
One can "ride safely" and avoid incidents but I do not believe one can "ride safely" and avoid accidents. This means I can ride in a manner that will prevent me from doing a wheelie and colliding with a liquid oxygen tanker in a school zone but I can't ride in a manner that will prevent someone careless from careening into me always and forever. Accidents aren't preventable or they wouldn't be accidents.
So maybe it's best to figure out which helmets are safest and buy those regardless of cost. They may be inexpensive or they may cost a prince's ransom, we don't seem to have a consensus. How do we find out?
Let's look at my personal example: who here feels my TMS (>$50) and my Arai ($ don't remind me...) offer the same protection?
Quote from: Rallyfan on December 26, 2014, 09:12:52 AMOne can "ride safely" and avoid incidents but I do not believe one can "ride safely" and avoid accidents. This means I can ride in a manner that will prevent me from doing a wheelie and colliding with a liquid oxygen tanker in a school zone but I can't ride in a manner that will prevent someone careless from careening into me always and forever. Accidents aren't preventable or they wouldn't be accidents.
I totally agree, but here is my story...It was the summer of 1977, July to be exact and I found myself laying on my back in Valley General Hospital, Renton Wa, it was yet another Stevo induced MC accident, due to nothing but pure Asshatery
(ass-hat-ery) on my part. This time I had multiple fractures that would cause me pain even as I type this now. The doctor wanted me to stay in the hospital for a week of "observation" possible internal injury's IDK? Needless to say I had a lot of time to think about what role MC's where going to have in my life, if any. At one point I convinced myself that taking the top off of my CJ5 was really all I needed and that would take care of my MC MoMo, but in the end I knew it wouldn't..so I decided to drastically alter my riding style, pace myself and ride until I couldn't ride anymore. That was 37 years ago, I haven't crashed or even had to talk to a LEO since then. It's not that I am a better rider than anybody, I just know my personal pace. If I can do it anybody can,
I no longer ride it like I stole it, I ride it like I've crashed it.Stevo
I agree with that also, Steve; I ride at my pace only and never beyond. However I'm still in danger from others or acts of God.
In SoCal, several years ago, I witnessed the aftermath of an accident that claimed a biker's life. In the carpool lane northbound on FWY 55, near Tustin, a biker died in a collision with a yacht.
Neither of my helmets would have saved me vs. a boat loose in traffic. However that doesn't mean neither helmet would save me in a typical fender bender.
I don't know... The more we discuss the less I'm trusting my inexpensive helmet -- but not because it's inexpensive. It's because of how it's made (cost is related but not my primary criterion; one brings the other by only to an extent).
I think a $100 Bell or Scorpion is safer than a $35 eBay helmet. Just IMO.
Well I am shocked at the great debate this thread has generated. Thanks for all the comments.
I'm much newer to riding than most of the commenters. I have ONE helmet and I'm getting my second. I didn't know any better when I bought the first one. It's ok. but after trying on the Bell, even though its tight, I don't know I can go back to the original Vega.
Great news though. I checked back at Revzilla and found they have the Large in stock and I bought it. I called CS and got a return authorization and packing label for the Medium. So it looks like I'll be back in business soon.
The Vega is DOT and ECE R... certified. The new Bell is DOT and Snell.
Thanks again for the support with getting the new lid.
Trae
I totally agree about quality being part of safety. The clarity and quality of the visor IS important (I forgot to mention earlier) especially at night. The most dangerous riding situation I was in was compounded by a cheap scratched tinted visor on a cheap helmet at 2 AM at 40 degrees and foggy.
I would have gave $1000 to rent my own shoei that night! It has a breath box and a non tinted visor.
I started off it was 65 degrees and noon, I grabbed the old "toss it around the garage" hat with tinted visor and thought nothing of it. Met up with an old friend, we got to talking, it got colder and way late. It was so foggy and cold I couldn't SEE through the visor and it was too cold to leave it open, I was riding looking out a 1/4" slot with my eyes watering and I was mad at the hat... At first... It wasn't that HAT's fault. It was the dummy UNDER the hat that let his gear get into such bad shape! :icon_lol: :icon_lol: :icon_lol:
Quote from: GatorTrae on December 19, 2014, 08:39:18 PM
There are plenty opinions out there. I want to hear yours.
1- What helmet do you wear - how much was it? Do you like/hate it?
2- Have you tried the expensive brands: Shoei, AGV, Arai. Is it worth 3x or even 5x the price? :dunno_white:
The cop out answer of buy what fits best and what you like.. I get that.
I want to learn from your experience. That's what this community is about!
Thanks! :thumb:
Trae
are expensive helmets worth it - no. it's foam, with a plastic shell, so no, it's not worth $800.
1 a have a few, a joe rocket DS helmet, a fly racing DS helmet, a cheap flip-up chin bar (hjc), a fulmer street lid, a hjc street lid, a soumi, a open face trials lid, and a couple others somewhere.
2 yes, i've tried them. no, i was not impressed. the most impressive helmet i've tried on lately was a buddie's dirt bike helmet that weighed roughly half what my DS (fly racing) lid weighs.
in my experience, people buy what they can afford, until they realize just how much money is wasted on brand names. the guy with the bmw is going to have a $800 hornet for a lid, because, he spends more money on stuff. the guy on the trials bike will have on an open face with a visor, from 1972, because he knows better. the track god will have WHATEVER someone will sponsor him with.
i'll wear a DS helmet most of the time, on or off road. if i'm going for a >200 mile ride, it's a street helmet, like the flip face one. very comfy, very good for talking at intersections.
The BMW guy and the trials guy would reasonably be expected to face the same potential impact forces, and the trials guy knows better, including the viability of a 40-year-old helmet during trials?
Does FIM allow cold-war-era helmets in any event, trial or not?
The BMW guy simply must spend more money on stuff? Would he be just as safe with the 40-year-old trial helmet as he would be in a Schuberth made last month?
Would he be just as safe in an inexpensive flip up as he would be in a Schuberth made last month?
Any part of this that is true is fantastic news! Where are the data from actual crashes though?
Quote from: ohgood on December 27, 2014, 08:05:20 AMi'll wear a DS helmet most of the time, on or off road. if i'm going for a >200 mile ride, it's a street helmet, like the flip face one. very comfy, very good for talking at intersections.
I also wear DS type helmets
a lot, mostly because I have yet to find a FF helmet
(in the price range I am willing to pay) that has an opening large enough for me to use my peripheral vision to its fullest, this Clearance Sale Snell Approved 2009 model HJC Matrix helmet in this photo is a prime example of $65 Blowout Pricing or whatever I paid..it was under $70 IIRC? Once I found out the sizing on the ones they had
left fit me, I bought one in black also.
EDIT: Well I'll be dipped...5 years later, here ya go, it was $64.99 http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/16841/i/hjc-cl-x5n-matrix-helmet (http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/16841/i/hjc-cl-x5n-matrix-helmet)
Also in photo....
• Previous years ventilated gloves $14.99
• Previous years Team Yoshimura Jacket usually $279..I paid $79 (with Crash Pads)
• Previous years GSX650F I paid $6300 OTD on a No Sales Tax weekend
• $5.41 ANSI Z87 Safety Glasses, Home Depot (not Oakley's)
• Not seen (under helmet) hair cut to 1/2 in via 1/2 spacer from Home Barber Kit
• Yes I am a Cheap Bastard, riding a MC doesn't need to be expensive
(http://home.comcast.net/~stykers/dshel.jpg)
That does look good! Is there any lift generated by the visor? I love the idea of huge field of view.
Quote from: Rallyfan on December 27, 2014, 09:05:23 AM
That does look good! Is there any lift generated by the visor? I love the idea of huge field of view.
Once you adjust the visor angle it's tolerable, I do the speed limit and I don't remember it being an issue, you can always shorten it or just take it off if you want also.
EDIT: If I sound like I am speaking in the past tense here, I am..this time of the year I ride
in my Honda not on it. I will pay attention for visor lift in March when I start riding street bikes again :thumb:
For me, the cheaper helmets also feel too light in fast traffic.
With wind gusts tugging on the helmet, I don't want a helmet that's too light.
Neither too heavy. And if it is heavy, it's better to have one that's a bit balanced backwards, and doesn't have a heavy front (so I don't get neckpain keeping my head up all the time).
Quote from: MeeLee on December 28, 2014, 08:24:07 PM
For me, the cheaper helmets also feel too light in fast traffic.
With wind gusts tugging on the helmet, I don't want a helmet that's too light.
Neither too heavy. And if it is heavy, it's better to have one that's a bit balanced backwards, and doesn't have a heavy front (so I don't get neckpain keeping my head up all the time).
Ahhhh yes, the Goldilocks Helmet, you want one that's "just right"...
Sorry to keep popping back... The wing drag thing, it changes drastically if you're not riding the GS but a touring bike with a windshield. Just having a windjammer or full dresser will change my preference in hat for the day. I will wear a dome nugget if I'm on a full dresser. Those tend to be cheaper than most any other hat. Anyone else have a C.H.i.P's hat? O0
Quote from: Zithromax on December 28, 2014, 09:10:48 PM
Sorry to keep popping back... The wing drag thing, it changes drastically if you're not riding the GS but a touring bike with a windshield. Just having a windjammer or full dresser will change my preference in hat for the day. I will wear a dome nugget if I'm on a full dresser. Those tend to be cheaper than most any other hat. Anyone else have a C.H.i.P's hat? O0
Check...
C.H.I.P's hats, I have 2 $36 Clearance AFX helmets for the 95°+ temps in Eastern Washington.
(http://home.comcast.net/~stykers/hivis.jpg)
This is the helmet I have linked below (includes my review). Its the Rearview Reevu modular helmet. The review and some of the follow-up questions from other members covers what I like/dislike, why I purchased, and even covers some perceived benefits. By the quality, construction, and features (w/o the rearview system) it is in the range of a $300 helmet, but the added feature of the rearview system adds about $100 to the final price, IMO.
http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=64696.msg771614#msg771614
As others have said, at a certain point on the scale, the cost of the helmet goes more toward comfortability and convenience features than does safety - although some of those features add amount of safety by allowing comfort in conditions that might affect your riding ability, physically or mentally (ventilation, visor features, weight, etc). To what extent those features may add safety depends on how you ride, how much you ride, what conditions you ride in, etc...
- Bboy
Thanks. I could use something like that. I can't see behind me on my F, only to the sides.
Quote from: Rallyfan on December 27, 2014, 08:28:39 AM
1- The BMW guy and the trials guy would reasonably be expected to face the same potential impact forces, and the trials guy knows better, including the viability of a 40-year-old helmet during trials?
2- Does FIM allow cold-war-era helmets in any event, trial or not?
3a- The BMW guy simply must spend more money on stuff?
3b- Would he be just as safe with the 40-year-old trial helmet as he would be in a Schuberth made last month?
4- Would he be just as safe in an inexpensive flip up as he would be in a Schuberth made last month?
5- Any part of this that is true is fantastic news! Where are the data from actual crashes though?
1- that should have read "40 year old style of trials helmet". the trials guy still knows better than the bmw weener 9/10 times.
2- goodness gracious no! all that wonderful sponsorship money would dry up immediately !
3a- yes, the bmw guy simply must spend more money on stuff.
3b- he would have to ride more to find out. that ain't happenin. it's cold out. or hot. or windy. or the dealership hasn't installed his new pannier yet. or something.
(yes i'm ribbing the stereotype for fun)
4- he would have to ride to be unsafe. he's safe. he's not riding. not this time of year.
(stilllll milking it)
5- trials crashes, bmw crashes, or just motorcycle crashes in general ? i'm fairly certain you'll be just as happy to know (as i am) that wearing a full face helmet from -whoever-makes-it- is safer than wearing a clamshell, or no helmet at all. but it's fun to poke fun at the bmw guys, so i'll wait for your reply ;-)
Happy New Year!
I'm in sunny Southern California and the temperature outside is... -7C. That's not a typo. It's 7 degrees below zero. I'm now a Honda guy (SUV, that is).
The more I look at my helmets and think about things the clearer it is to me that I'm putting the TMS in a closet and switching fully to the Arai.
However! TMS makes a $30 armoured vest, with elbow, shoulder, spine, chest, and kidney plates. It's on my short list. It's for MX but I'll wear it under my existing armoured jacket nonetheless.
With my Arai and my double armoured padding I will look like a fashion victim that's not gotten rid of the trophobelene (I have... Oh the memories..).
Health, wealth, fashion, and safety to all!
Aside from certs, another thing that makes cheaper helmets cheaper comes down to manufacturing shortcuts.
For example, a more expensive brand that makes a helmet will make a different shell size for every helmet fit size. S, M, L, and XL will all have different shells.
A cheap helmet will cut corners here with a liner. So perhaps S and M will both use a M size shell, and the L and XL will both use an XL size shell and they size them down with a bulky liner. They spend half as much money on equipment to manufacture, and if you happen to be a M or XL you won't be affected, but a S or L might have issues with fit.
The bonus is they can now charge a lot less for the helmets.
That's the case with my AFX. I wanted a "better" helmet, but my price range was around $100. The AFX had more features than some others in the same price range, and the shell issue was the reason. I happened to be lucky with the fit. It's comfortable, and the FOV is fine, but the graphics aren't exceptional, the ventilation is moderate, and the visor isn't really high quality.
I've noticed with a lot of things that you get what you pay for, but that being said the difference between a $100 helmet and a $500 helmet might be vast while the difference between a $500 helmet and an $800 one won't be as tangible. I don't have experience with top of the line helmets, but I do have experience with a lot of other things. In many cases, going "top tier" just means you get a better fit and finish, not necessarily a better product than the middle-road examples.
But a middle-road priced item will definitely be better than a budget friendly option in most ways.
And you'll pay 4 grand for an American Strat, but you can get a Jap one for $1200 -Just as good.
And if you want, you'll get a Chinese copy for $400 - again, just as good.
What's going on here? People are buying their egos. And they need to justify their spend too.
IMHO same with helmets.
Quote from: Joolstacho on January 01, 2015, 08:28:45 PM
And you'll pay 4 grand for an American Strat, but you can get a Jap one for $1200 -Just as good.
And if you want, you'll get a Chinese copy for $400 - again, just as good.
What's going on here? People are buying their egos. And they need to justify their spend too.
IMHO same with helmets.
Pleeze....tell me more
J/K we are here to talk about helmets
(http://home.comcast.net/~stykers/stevostock.jpg)
Sorry Stevo, it was just an illustration of our tendency to assume bigger price means better quality.
http://www.whittakerdesign.com.au/guitars
Are expensive helmets worth it?
Ask yourself this question as your skidding down the road using your noggin as a brake. ;)
I do prefer a quality helmet to be on my head. And quality helmets don't need to be expensive.
.... that is a great point! ... quality does not always equal pricey!
My first helmet was an A$70 full face off eBay. Met Australian safety standards but was noisy wobbled around on my head a little. Upgraded to a Shark Vision-R which normally retail around A$440 here but I managed to pick up for $270 on sale as it was the previous years model. Whether or not it protects my head better its a superior product in every other way, better looks, better fit, comfort, less noise, lighter, better venting and the integrated sun visor is awesome. So yeah, going from a cheap helmet to a mid-range one is well worth the extra $$. No idea about the top-end stuff, but I suspect it's like most other things and the law of diminishing returns probably applies. I also have a $65 RXT open-face that I wear for short rides around town in the summer heat, ended up buying that one over more expensive alternatives because it was the only open-fact that fit my head just right.
Always wanted a Stig helmet. . But track legal only over here so far... and only in cars at that!
Is it a Nexx or?
Stig helmet? .. is a Simpson - Diamondback. .. not cheap tho!
I need to get a new helmet. and I was actually wanting a dual sport helmet... but I was curious as to the noise they might make at higher speeds. anyone have any experience?
Quote from: J_Walker on January 08, 2015, 12:13:38 PM
I need to get a new helmet. and I was actually wanting a dual sport helmet... but I was curious as to the noise they might make at higher speeds. anyone have any experience?
I wear ear plugs with all my helmets, DS type helmets offer
(for me anyway) the best visability, I rate that higher than looks or noise.
Walker, look over on ADVRider. I'd be surprised if there was a DS helmet on the marker that wasn't reviewed over there.
I usually buy the cheaper helmets..HJC, Vega, etc. I just bought a LS2 ff386 modular that is highly rated. It has a few things the high end helmets have.It has a quick release strap, pinlock ready, ECE.
Very nice!
Howard Wolowitz wears an AFX open face. Bazza wore AGV I think, and Joey Dunlop an Arai.
I think Wolowitz changes helmets after the first season but am unsure -- not a huge fan of the show.
When I bought my bike I looked at a few brands and settled on my full face Shoei. I really appreciate the extra testing Snell does to the helmet and I feel more confident in my ride because of it. I am sure I will look into other brands but right now I plan to get much use out of my Shoei. It's comfortable, has great air flow, and keeps the noise down.
Besides, you can't put a price on your head ;)
I bought my Bell RS1 for $220 shipped on clearance from STG. I love this helmet. Snell approved, looks sweet, plenty of vents, contoured cheekpads, chin curtain, breath guard, the liner is made of the softest most amazing fabric I've felt in a helmet, it uses a magnet to hold the strap in place rather than an obnoxious button, and the visor release mechanism is fantastic. You can even add one of their photochromic visors.
When I wore out my old generic no-name modular helmet, I bought a Bell Qualifier because it was cheap. The helmet looked cool, but the fit was off and the interior lining was rough and scratchy. It just felt cheap, so I returned it. It might have protected my head just fine, but it wasn't comfortable at all.
In any case, with most helmets the cost-benefit analysis is really going to boil down to how much you value certain luxuries. Lighter weight, lower noise, more comfortable liner, etc etc.
Quote from: MeeLee on December 23, 2014, 06:29:52 PM
Quote from: twocool on December 21, 2014, 06:00:46 AM
Sooooo....
The answer to the original question: "Are expensive helmets worth it?"
No
Yes
Maybe
It depends
(choose the answer you like)
Cookie
Quote from: GatorTrae on December 19, 2014, 08:39:18 PM
There are plenty opinions out there. I want to hear yours.
1- What helmet do you wear - how much was it? Do you like/hate it?
2- Have you tried the expensive brands: Shoei, AGV, Arai. Is it worth 3x or even 5x the price? :dunno_white:
The cop out answer of buy what fits best and what you like.. I get that.
I want to learn from your experience. That's what this community is about!
Thanks! :thumb:
Trae
Seeing that I'm a defensive rider, ride mostly alone, and at speed limits (occasionally faster, but most of the time I behave), and in fl it's too hot to wear a helmet outside of winter; adding to the fact that I can enjoy giving up minor quality (eg wind noise, seating comfort, fogging) for some $$$, I would say they (expensive helmets) are not worth it.
If you are living in colder regions, where screen fogging is an issue, or ride with 2 and need intercom; or you're the type of person who rides his bike once a year, and have one of those humongous bagger bikes, and want top quality, top dollar, you may want to go with the more expensive helmets.
I enjoy my ride, I use it as weekly/weekend commuter and on my days off.
My bike has no less than 1 month stand still, most of the time 3-4 rides per week.
I don't care about how it looks like, I care about the enjoyment of my ride.
Ironically, I use my helmet more than people keeping their bike in the stable all year, save for 2 weeks in the summer, and I don't even want a fancy helmet.
$100 helmets are super! $35 helmets are good enough (save for the tracks or the 70+mph highways).
As a rider in Florida also Orlando to be exact I won't go 2 miles without my helmet! These tourons are the worst drivers I've ever witnessed.
This is where a quality helmet is important because of our high temperatures. I started with a Shoie RF-1000 I loved it and didn't notice the price too much since it was financed with Flick. After a few years it was time to update. I went to Cycle Gear and tried almost every helmet on. I ended up with a seven zero seven Vandeta 2. It was much lighter than my Shoie and breathed so much better not to mention I could actually afford a tinted visor! Think it was about $125.
On another forum a sweet lady sent me her worn once gear since she could no longer ride. The package included a new Scorpion women's helmet. Pink and white with butterflies along with a hot pink visor. Many that know me know I'm not quite that kind of girl but holy krap that helmet was the most comfortable of the 3! 60% of the time I wear it with the awesome white jacket she gave me. Only do I wear the Vandetta when I'm rocking the Suzuki jacket.
I'm getting close to needing another helmet I'll probably try Scorpion first but I will stick with Cycle Gear because I can try it for 7 days with option to return! But, my advice never forgo a helmet because it's too hot a shower will take care of that or a camel back to keep you hydrated!
Mary
Don't get too hung up on getting an "expensive" brand.
My head can't comfortably fit the Shoei or Arai helmets, so I got a Shark instead. A better fit helmet I think is better than expensive brands for the sake of it.
Note shark itself is pretty good, but the shark I got is like 1/5 the price of the Arais and Shoeis where I am from.
I just ordered a Bell RS-1 normally a 400 helmet but I got it on closeout for 190. I'll have to see how I like it but all the reviews have been good.
Sent from my SM-G920V using Tapatalk
I've got an HJC CL-17. It's my first helmet, and the only one that I tried on after reading quite a few reviews. Since I was getting ready to purchase my first bike, and had already spend a significant amount of cash on the rest of my gear, I only looked at helmets under $150. It fits my head well, and all of the reviews I read were excellent. Hopefully I never have to test it out the hard way...
The only thing I have to compare it to is my brother's Arai. It fits similarly to my CL-17, but I have not ridden with it so I cannot compare noise levels, etc. He recently went down at around 40 MPH, and slid head first into a curb. He walked away from it, with obvious damage to the helmet (as well as to the bike and the rest of his gear), but the important part is that he walked away unharmed. Long story short, he has tried on my HJC and plans to buy one to replace his Arai.
I bought a Shoei GT Air and paid several hundred more than I needed to protect my brain. It sits on a chair protecting it from falling debris and random shrapnel. The XL size looks like an Apollo-era helmet and people laugh at me in public. I hope this helps answer your question.
Quote from: smokestack on June 23, 2016, 07:36:28 AM
The XL size looks like an Apollo-era helmet and people laugh at me in public. I hope this helps answer your question.
Seriously? You let what other people say determine what helmet you wear? My own wife tells me I look like "a moon man" when I gear up to ride. I wear what's comfortable, within my budget, and what I feel gives the best level of protection based on the level of risk I am willing to accept.
The only reason it sits on the chair is because I like to pretend to be a motorcycle mechanic O0 (<-- actual helmet size)
Quote from: smokestack on June 23, 2016, 09:19:58 AM
The only reason it sits on the chair is because I like to pretend to be a motorcycle mechanic O0 (<-- actual helmet size)
:thumb:
Quote from: smokestack on June 23, 2016, 09:19:58 AM
The only reason it sits on the chair is because I like to pretend to be a motorcycle mechanic O0 (<-- actual helmet size)
Nice :thumb: :D