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Helmet Advice & Checks


Speak! I am the owner..what else??


From : Forum Safety Riding Jakarta – karisma.riders@gmail.com

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Comfort
Apart from the safety factor the most important aspect of a helmet is comfort. Let’s face it, you’re going to be wearing it time and time again. It should be safe, look good and feel very comfy.

Helmet shell
The shell is usually composed of either a polycarbonate mixture (a what …?) or fiberglas. Fiberglas motorcycle helmets are often high impact resistant, very stable and last a long time. The polycarbonate helmets are often light weight and very sturdy.

The helmet shell should be cast in one piece (which is often the case, ask if you’re not sure) because its major roll is to spread the impact and resist a sharp object from penetrating the safety liner.

Helmet safety liner
The safety liner is made of EPS (the same stuff used for white plastic foam cups). It has one roll, absorb the impact energy without passing it on to your head. Some types of helmets are missing this safety liner. This makes for a much cooler looking helmet but it’s missing that one ingredient, just so you know (yes I have one too).

Helmet comfort liner
The comfort liner is the padding that rest against your head. It should breath well, be comfortable and also absorb sweat. In some helmets you can take this comfort liner out (for a wash) or replace it with padding which fits better.

Ventilation system
A good ventilation system is very important. Often this does have a direct influence on how noisy helmets get (the wind moving past the vents). But you need ventilation (unless you like riding with a fogged up visor).

Check out if your ventilation system can be opened and closed and if there are openings in the back of the helmet (air coming in should be able to leave the helmet).

Chin strap locking systems
There are three types of systems: double D-ring (the most safe and lightest), quick release (most used and easiest to handle) and lever system (not used a lot and most prone to damage).

I have stood there trying to open that s.. chin strap after a days ride but couldn’t. Man do you look silly. Ideally you will get use to the chinstrap of your helmet and can open and close it without any problems.

(1) – quick release with strap shifter (2) – quick release with press button (3) – quick release with press button ton the side (4) – saw-tooth connection (5) double d-ring connection (6) – soft inner padding (7) – velcro connection for left-over strap.

Space for your ears / (sun)glasses
The inside of the helmet should have enough room for your ears. Ergonomically formed linings are so much more comfortable. With every hour you wear your helmet it becomes better vs. a cramped motorcycle helmet were it becomes worse. Every motorcycle helmet will adapt a little to your head size (but this is only a little).

Sunshades
A low hanging sun can blind you to the extreme. Some helmets have a nice sunshade built into them, very useful. However a pair of sunglasses does the same trick, you choose.

Helmet weight
Unless motorcycle helmets are from the stone ages, weight is not a consideration to worry about. If it’s a bite heavier than your old one no problem. Within a short time your muscles will get use to it.

Helmet shell sizes
Some brands do not change their shell size, they only change their inner liners. This means that an extra small helmet size has a lot of extra padding on the inside, compared to an extra large version. Considering that you want helmets that don’t feel very big on your head, check if the helmet brand uses different shell sizes for each model size. (this kind of motorcycle helmet will be more expensive).

Visors
Does your helmet have a visor? If not you’ll be wearing shades or goggles. Very important is that the visor doesn’t influence your vision (optically incorrect).

Check out which kind of visor your motorcycle helmet uses. Can you get different kinds e.g. different shades. How easy is it to remove a visor. Where and how does it click open and close. Make sure you feel comfortable with how stable it feels. Does it make a good seal with your helmet.

You can also get a liquid called – Novus polish cleaner & scratch remover – This stuff is great for removing scratches from your visor but also from your windshield.


— A Different Kind Of Company. A Different Kind Of Ride —

www.InBike.org
(Indosat Bikers Community)
Pos Komunikasi InBike
Gedung B2 lt.1 PT.Indosat Tbk,
Jl Daan Mogot KM.11 Jakarta Barat 11710

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