In need of a (new) motorcycle helmet? Comfort, safety and fit make the difference between a good ride or coming home with a headache. What types of motorcycle helmets are there, what should you pay attention to when buying one and how long does a helmet actually last?
Types of motorcycle helmets
Depending on how and where you ride, choose a helmet that suits your style and use. There are four types of helmets: full-face helmet, jethelmet, system helmet and cross helmet.
Inner helmet (full face helmet):
The full-face helmet is fully enclosed, which means that the helmet shell consists of one part. This type of helmet offers the best protection and is therefore worn by many people.
- Advantages integral helmet: maximum protection, good insulation (also against wind noise), sleek design.
- Disadvantages integral helmet: can be warm and cheaper models often have less ventilation.
Jethelmet (open face helmet):
This helmet is open at the front (half helmet shell). Because of this, the Jet helmet feels more airy than the inground helmet. Therefore, these helmets are often worn by people who ride mostly in nice weather.
- Advantages jet helmet: lightweight, good visibility, airy.
- Disadvantages of a jet helmet: less protection for your chin and face in case of a fall, less suitable for riding in precipitation and cold.
System helmet (folding helmet):
This type of helmet is actually a combination of an intergral and a jet helmet. You can flip up the chin box, which is handy when refueling, talking or riding slowly. Many tour riders and motorcycle riding instructors swear by it because of its convenience.
- Advantages of a system helmet: flexible in use, great for glasses wearers and good ventilation.
- Disadvantages of a system helmet: slightly heavier, moving parts can wear out or break down faster.
Cross helmet:
This is the helmet designed for off-road and adventure riders. The cross helmet has a striking visor against mud and sun, extra ventilation and an open face area that you combine with motorcycle goggles. Perfect for those who like to leave the asphalt or do enduro or cross.
- Advantages cross helmet: excellent ventilation, robust design for dare devils.
- Disadvantages of cross helmet: less suitable for regular highway rides, catches a lot of wind through the visor, often noisier and more tiring on long rides.
What should you pay attention to when buying a motorcycle helmet?
There are a number of points to consider when buying a motorcycle helmet:
Fit: A motorcycle helmet should be comfortable and tight. If your helmet is too loose, it offers less protection in the event of a fall. Too tight causes headaches and pressure spots. All in all, a good fit is crucial when buying a helmet. A short checklist to check the fit:
- Put the helmet on: The helmet brim should fall just at or slightly above your eyebrows.
- Enough pressure on the cheeks: This may even be so much pressure that you lightly bite your cheeks when closing your mouth.
- Move your head: The helmet should not move when you move your head.
- Check your chin: Your chin should not hit the chin box or stick out from under it.
Weight: Lightweight helmets are more comfortable and better for long rides. This difference is especially noticeable in your neck and shoulders.
Ventilation: If you often ride in warm weather or have a sporty riding style, good insulation is essential.
Visor: Pay attention to scratch resistance and whether the visor is pinlock-ready. Some visors have a sun visor built in, which is very useful in changing light conditions.
How long can you use a motorcycle helmet?
On average, a motorcycle helmet lasts about five to six years. Not because it suddenly falls apart, but because materials such as foam and glue age over time. UV radiation, sweat, rain and temperature changes also affect the inner and outer shell.
Fall = replace. If your helmet has fallen hard once (even if you don't ride with it), the protective effect may be reduced, even if you can't see anything on the outside.
In doubt? Have a specialist take a look or replace your helmet in time. Safety above all.
What does a motorcycle helmet cost?
Motorcycle helmets come in different price ranges, from €100 to over €800.
The entry-level models (€100 - €500) for novice riders tend to be a little heavier and offer a little less ventilation and soundproofing. The mid-range models (€250 - €500) have a better fit and are more comfortable on longer rides. And finally the top-end (€500+), these are lightweight, have advanced ventilation and optimal sound insulation and finish.
What rules should a helmet meet for safety?
In Europe, helmets must meet the ECE mark. Without this seal, your helmet is not suitable for riding. You'll find this seal on a label in the chin strap, usually marked ECE 22.06.
Beware of online purchases: cheap helmets without a seal of approval are often fake or not safe. Buy your helmet preferably at a recognized motorcycle store with experienced staff and a wide range of top brands. There you can try on, compare and get good advice. That really makes a difference on the road.
With only a helmet you are not there yet, also a nice and good motorcycle clothing contributes to protection on the road. Also read the article on motorcycle clothing and you'll be well prepared for when you go shopping!
This article is written in cooperation with Splash Design.
