Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums General Common Interests Helmet Opinion

So, I want a full-face helmet for my riding test in 2 weeks. Should I get a standard or "modular" where you can basically flip the chin section up?

Any opinions?

At least when I was shopping, the modular ones were considered to offer significantly less protection (none were Snell certified).

Unless that has changed, I wouldn't consider one.

All about preference. The modular/convertible helmets are a bit pricey. But then again, regular full-face helmets can go for $500+. Just don't go get the cheapest lid you can find; you get what you pay for.

I've been thinking about getting a convert. lid, though. Seems like a handy feature. I've tried on Nolan's convertible, and it wasn't bad. I want to try Shoei's before I make the decision.

--JamesT

At this point, I'm not sure I'll pass the test or like riding, so I'm looking for tH3 cH3Ap.

I tried an HCI full face helmet and it seemed nice enough. In the store was $100, found online for $65. The modular is only $10 more. I just don't want to be the only tool with one!

Also, is it better to get a helmet that is both DOT and SNELL certified? I can use a SNELL helment in SCCA, right?

Snell certification is required for SCCA, and does mean it has been proven to pass a tougher battery of tests.

Brian,

Do not skimp on a helmet. It protects your brain housing group; a non replace-able item If you're not sure, borrow a quality lid for your test from a friend. Then, if you decide riding is right for you, invest in something from Arai, Shoei, Bell, or Simpson.

My personal preference is a full face lid. It my more conservative (safer) side. James is right, you want SNELL. Not just DOT or ANSI.

Mark-who-has-been-down-twice-since-1985-and-was-grateful-for-a-good-helmet-both-times.

Motorcyclist magazine recently (in the last 6 months, I have the issue around here somewhere) did a test on helmets. DOT only helmets passed SIGNIFICANTLY less force to the headform than SNELL or any other helmets, in every test. Seems to me like it is the only way to go. I will try to find a link to the back issue or article for you. Everyone who rides a motorcycle should read it.

in addition to an up to date SNELL rating you also want to look to see if the helmet is a "SA" or "M" rating.

SA helmets are rated for multiple angle impacts, such can happen in a roll over with a roll cage or side impace where your head can physically come in contact with multiple objects from multiple angles.

M helmets are simply a motorvehicle/motorcycle rating. It is rated for a single point impact. Such as hitting the ground after your bike goes down.

If you are only planning on using the helmet for motorcycle use then M is fine, however if you plan on using this in your car on an open track, autoX, etc. then definately spend a little extra and get an SA rated helmet.

Thats it! ARRRGH!!

It is long, but very interesting.