How to Size a Motorcycle Helmet Properly
There is nothing worse than wearing a motorcycle helmet that doesn't fit. Not only is it very uncomfortable, but it can be dangerous. So it is very important to be sure you get a helmet that is the right size, and fits correctly.
A poorly sized helmet will catch air under it and blow around if it is too large. If it is too small, it will pinch and could give you a headache. It will also ride too high and not give you the protection you need in a crash.
There are two types of full face helmet, the true full face and the modular. Both protect your entire head, face and chin.
The difference is in the chin bar. In the regular full face helmet, this fixed, but in the modular, it is hinged so that it can be rotated up and down. Some people think this is more convenient and offers more freedom. By being able to rotate the chin bar, you can eat, drink, smoke or put on your lipstick without having to remove your helmet.
Second, make sure it is DOT (Department of Transportation), or SNELL approved. Do not just look at the sticker on the helmet, but look at the label inside to see if it says it meets DOT standards or SNELL certification. NOTE: The modular helmets are DOT approved, but do not meet the more rigorous testing to be certified by SNELL.
After you decide which kind you want, you need to measure your head.
In order to measure your head correctly, you need a cloth measuring tape. It would help greatly if you had someone to help you.
You need to measure around your forehead, approximately one inch above your eyebrows, or wherever your head is the largest. It is important to measure at the largest part of your head.
After you have gotten your measurement (size in inches), you need to translate that in the size of helmet you need. Helmets usually come in extra small (xsmall), small, medium, large, and extra large (xlarge). It is possible to find extra, extra small(xxsmall), and extra, extra large (xxlarge).
Here are some guidelines: If you have under a 20 inch measurement, then you would require an xx small. If your measurement is 20 inches, you need an xsmall, a 21 inch measurement would translate into a small helmet. If your head measures 22 inches, then you would want to buy a medium motorcycle helmet, and a 23 inch head would require a large. Anything over 23 inches and you need an xlarge or an xxlarge.
After you are armed with the size to start with, go to a local dealer and try on some before buying. Even if you plan to buy over the internet, it is a good idea to try some on first, to make sure that is actually the size you need, as most peoples heads are not exactly 20, 21, 22, etc. inches.
In addition to sizing a motorcycle helmet correctly, check the straps or fastenings. There are several different type of fastenings. Most people like the quick release type, as that doesn't require having to re-thread the strap each time you put your helmet on, and it make removal easier too.
Most straps are made of some type of nylon, and can irritate your skin if it has any frays or bad places in it, so check out the strap to make sure is of good quality.
If your helmet is always flopping around, or irritating your neck and you have to constantly readjust it, then it doesn't fit. This can also be a danger, especially if you are driving and you remove your hands from the handlebars to make the adjustment.
After you buy your helmet, you may want to buy some accessories for it, such as locks,
helmet hangers, helmet bags, or a bluetooth or intercom headset.
So be sure you get a proper fitting helmet, be safe and ride happy!
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