Motorcycle Head Gear
Motorcycle Safety Rule # 1: Save the Head
Let’s face it. If you are in a high speed motorcycle accident and your unprotected head hits the road with any kind of force (which it probably will), you are road kill!
Bikers are an independent bunch that like their freedom and are willing to fight for it. In many states in the U.S. bikers have won the right to choose for themselves whether to wear a helmet or not. Even so, bikers are not stupid, and you will see the majority, especially on highways and well traveled roads, sporting the most important piece of motorcycle safety gear available: a DOT approved motorcycle helmet.
Choosing a Motorcycle Helmet
Avoid choosing a motorcycle helmet to make a fashion statement. If you think it would be cool to ride around town with a beanie fastened to the top of your head with a chin strap, just know that if and when you do hit the road, that novelty helmet is going to do you little if any good.
By the same token, a novelty style half or three quarter helmet may offer slightly better protection from a bump, but will do little to protect your nose, chin, and cheeks while sliding belly down on an asphalt pavement.
A DOT approved full face helmet with a shield is the minimum one should look for in a helmet, and has the added advantage of keeping the bugs out of your face! Why DOT approved?
The technology of helmets has improved dramatically over the years thanks in large part to the NFL. New and better materials for padding, external materials and components, even best fit and sizing considerations have been scientifically studied, all for the stated purpose of minimizing head injuries to football players.
It is only natural that these technologies and scientific studies would cross over to the motorcycle safety gear manufacturers, being that both these entities have the same goal in mind.
The DOT standard is a minimum. You can buy this helmet technology up to any extent you are willing to pay for, and it will always be DOT approved. With helmets that do not have the DOT seal of approval, you can pretty much bet they haven’t put much thought into keeping your brain from turning to mush.
Sizing is a very important factor when choosing a motorcycle helmet. Too tight and it could reduce blood flow, do more harm than good against bumps, or at the very least make you feel like a prisoner in your own head, thus ruining a perfectly good riding experience.
A helmet that is too loose can beat against your head, and likewise will not protect to its potential, a real headache when riding your bike. Do yourself a favor and try before you buy!
So now you’ve found a great selection of full face DOT approved motorcycle helmets, and they all have face shields to keep out the bug juice! With all of the bright colors and creative designs available to you, now is the time to go ahead and make that fashion statement!
Next: Rule # 2: Save Your Hide
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