It is easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying a motorbike and forget to make careful consideration before purchasing a helmet. Sometimes we think of the helmet as a necessary evil enforced by transport police, whereas the truth is that they can really make the difference between life, death or at least serious injury. It is important that before you buy your discount motorcycle helmet that you know what to look for - price is not necessarily an indication of a helmet's truth worth.
Choosing the most expensive or the sleekest looking helmet design is not likely to be the key to finding the best helmet for you. There are a number of things to think about and you should try several helmets before purchasing.
It is usually assumed that most motorcycle accidents are caused out on the highway and involve high speeds. This is not true, in fact most bike accidents happen close to home and at low speeds. They are most commonly caused by drivers simply not noticing you. Even at low speeds a bike accident can yield serious head injuries and even death.
For maximum protection a full face helmet is recommended. Studies have indicated that full face helmets are much more likely to prevent facial, cranial and brain injuries. A full face helmet can also reduce wind interference, which can diminish your vision on the road and distract you. Color is also important: a silver grey helmet might look cool, but a brightly colored motorcycle helmet makes you more visible to other motorists, which is much safer. Bright colored helmets can also be seen in any type of weather.
There are two main industry bodies, which rate helmets and put them through strict tests to determine their safety factor. When purchasing your discount motorcycle helmet ensure that it is approved either by SNELL or DOT, the Department of Transport. If it does not have the SNELL or DOT approval sticker then leave it on the shelf and try another helmet.
Generally DOT and SNELL check that helmets test helmets to gauge how much impact the helmet can absorb upon collision and whether the chin strap can be relied upon to stay in place. Studies have also shown that motor cyclists that use a full face helmet are far less likely to receive brain injuries in the event of an accident.
When trying on helmets you should do the retention test, this checks whether the helmet is going to stay on your head to protect you upon impact. To do this simple test place the helmet on your head and you should feel it sitting firmly around your chin area. Then tug at the back part of the helmet and with all your force try to pull it off from the rear. If it jiggles or can be removed then you need to look for another helmet. A well fitting helmet must fit snugly on your head and in the case of a full face helmet hug your cheek bones also. Other features to consider when buying a discount motorcycle helmet are comfort, ventilation and wind noise.
Your discount motorcycle helmet should be purchased only after careful thought and consideration. The helmet is an essential part of biking and getting it right could mean enjoying time with your loved ones or time in traction.
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