Helmets

Helmets are similar to engine oil in the sense that they can provoke long debates about which one is best. This review is difficult because I can only comment and reflect upon my experiences with MY head. And since all of our heads are unique, my experience and preference will be different from yours. That said, this info is about the helmets that work for me.

First, I don’t have a brand preference when it comes to helmets. What I find important is the safety rating. DOT safety rating is non-negotiable, and even better if you can find a helmet that is SNELL or ECE certified. After all, the whole purpose of a helmet is to protect your head!

I have worn and owned many different helmets including HJC, Bell, Shoei, Arai, Harley Davidson, AGV, and Schuberth. All of these brands make both high end helmets and entry level helmets. With my head size and shape, I find myself gravitating towards HJC and Shoei helmets. They simply fit my head better than other brands. If a helmet is comfortable it is more likely to be worn.

Over the years I have tried full face helmets, 3/4 helmets (Shoei J-Cruise), and modular helmets (Shoei Neotec & Schuberth C5). Although all will do the job, I prefer modular helmets. I like that they provide the protection of a full face helmet, but I can lift the “lid” and drink water or eat something without having to take the helmet off.

My wife currently uses the Schuberth C5. She loves the helmet and likes how light it is compared to other helmets. She has the Sena system integrated into the helmet and it works fine. On the other hand, I don’t really care for the Schuberth. It’s not that it’s a bad helmet. It just doesn’t fit me as well as it fits my wife.

I currently use a Shoei Neotec II and Shoei Neotec III. I have both the II and the III due to the fact that my Neotec II was getting pretty worn, and I was due for an upgrade. I use the Neotec II for local rides, but if I’m out on the bike for any length of time I’m grabbing the Neotec III. These are modular helmets that provide excellent air circulation and protection. They are very comfortable helmets and I plan on getting a lot of use out of them!

I suppose the best advice I can give regarding helmets is this…focus on safety ratings and comfort first…then style. Go to Cycle Gear or a dealership and try different helmets on. First find a manufacturer that fits your head, then start looking at style and features. Do this and you will have an enjoyable helmet ownership experience.

When I first began motorcycling I just looked for something that looked cool and was cheap…that was a bad choice. Do this and you will NOT have an enjoyable helmet ownership experience!