At Moto Central, Leicestershire’s premier motorcycle helmet retailer, we understand the importance of selecting the right helmet for your safety and comfort. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to motorcycling, making an informed choice is crucial. To assist you, we've compiled a comprehensive guide addressing frequently asked questions about motorcycle helmets.
About Motorcycle Helmets
1. What is the purpose of a motorcycle helmet?
A motorcycle helmet is designed to protect your head during a collision by absorbing impact energy, thereby reducing the risk of serious injury or fatality. In the UK, wearing a helmet that meets legal safety standards is mandatory for all riders and passengers. Beyond legal requirements, helmets shield you from debris, weather elements, and wind, enhancing your overall riding experience.
2. Are all motorcycle helmets the same?
No, helmets vary significantly in design, materials, features, and intended use. The main types include:
- Full-Face Helmets: Offer maximum protection, covering the entire head and face.
- Modular (Flip-Up) Helmets: Combine the safety of full-face helmets with the convenience of an open-face design.
- Open-Face Helmets: Provide less coverage but greater ventilation and a wider field of vision.
- Adventure Helmets: Designed for both on-road and off-road use, featuring extended visors and enhanced airflow.
- Motocross Helmets: Tailored for off-road riding, with peak visors and increased ventilation.
Selecting the right helmet depends on your riding style, preferences, and the level of protection you require.
3. Do motorcycle helmets need to meet specific standards?
Yes, in the UK, helmets must comply with recognised safety standards, such as ECE 22.05 or the newer ECE 22.06. These standards ensure helmets have undergone rigorous testing for impact absorption, retention system effectiveness, and other safety criteria. While all helmets on the market meet a minimum safety threshold, independent testing programmes like SHARP (Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme) provide additional insights by rating helmets on a scale of 1 to 5 stars, helping riders identify those that exceed basic safety requirements.
4. Why is helmet safety information so important?
Understanding safety information empowers riders to make informed decisions. A helmet that fits well and has strong safety credentials can make a life-saving difference. Independent ratings, such as those from SHARP, help riders identify helmets with superior performance, offering additional confidence beyond standard certification labels.
Choosing the Right Helmet
5. What should I consider when buying a motorcycle helmet?
When selecting a helmet, consider the following factors:
- Safety Ratings: Look for helmets that meet UK safety standards (ECE 22.05 or 22.06) and have favourable ratings from independent testing programmes like SHARP.
- Fit: A proper fit is crucial. The helmet should sit snugly without causing discomfort. It should not move freely when you shake your head.
- Comfort: Features such as ventilation, weight, and interior padding affect comfort, especially on long rides.
- Type: Choose a helmet style that suits your riding habits—be it full-face, modular, open-face, adventure, or motocross.
- Additional Features: Consider aspects like visor clarity, noise reduction, and compatibility with communication systems.
At Moto Central, we recommend trying helmets in-store to ensure the perfect fit. Our experts are on hand to guide you.
6. Is the most expensive helmet always the safest?
Not necessarily. While premium helmets often include advanced features like lightweight materials (e.g., carbon fibre) or integrated communication systems, many mid-range helmets also perform excellently in safety tests. A helmet’s safety depends on its design and testing performance, not just its price tag. Programmes like SHARP can help identify top-performing helmets across various price ranges.
7. How do I know if a helmet fits properly?
A good fit is essential for safety and comfort. When trying on a helmet:
- It should feel snug, with even pressure around your head.
- The helmet should not wobble or slide when you move your head.
- Fasten the chin strap securely; you should only be able to fit two fingers between the strap and your chin.
Keep in mind that padding will compress slightly over time, so avoid buying a helmet that feels loose initially.
8. Should I buy a helmet based solely on its safety rating?
While safety ratings are vital, they’re not the only consideration. A highly-rated helmet that doesn’t fit well can be uncomfortable and less effective in protecting you. Look for a balance of safety, fit, and features. For example, a helmet with a 5-star SHARP rating and superior ventilation might be ideal for a touring rider.
9. Is it safe to buy helmets online?
Yes, but only from reputable retailers like Moto Central. Ensure you know your correct size and always check the retailer’s return policy in case the helmet doesn’t fit. Avoid purchasing from unauthorised sellers, as counterfeit helmets can look legitimate but fail to meet safety standards.
10. Can I use a second-hand helmet?
Using a second-hand helmet is not advised. Helmets are designed to absorb impact only once, so even minor, unseen damage can compromise their integrity. Additionally, the internal padding may have worn out, affecting fit and comfort.
Types of Motorcycle Helmets
11. What are the benefits of different helmet types?
Each type of helmet offers distinct advantages:
- Full-Face Helmets: Provide the highest level of protection, ideal for all types of riders.
- Modular Helmets: Combine the protection of full-face helmets with the convenience of an open-face option.
- Open-Face Helmets: Popular for urban or classic riding, offering greater ventilation and visibility.
- Adventure Helmets: Versatile for on-road and off-road use, with features like extended visors and enhanced airflow.
- Motocross Helmets: Designed for off-road terrain, featuring peak visors and lightweight builds.
Choosing the right type depends on your riding habits and preferences.
12. Which is better: D-ring or ratchet chin straps?
Both systems have their benefits. D-rings are simple, secure, and lightweight, making them popular for track use. Ratchet chin straps are quick and convenient to fasten, especially with gloves. Choose based on your personal preference.
Helmet Maintenance and Replacement
13. How long does a motorcycle helmet last?
Most manufacturers recommend replacing helmets every 5 to 7 years, depending on usage. Over time, materials like EPS foam degrade, reducing their protective capacity. If a helmet has been involved in an accident or dropped significantly, replace it immediately.
14. My helmet was dropped. Do I need to replace it?
If the helmet was dropped from a height or onto a hard surface, it’s best to replace it. Even if no damage is visible, the internal structure may have weakened, compromising its ability to absorb impacts.
15. How should I clean my helmet?
Use a mild soap and water solution for the shell and visor. Remove and hand-wash the interior padding if possible. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage the materials and reduce the helmet's durability over time. For ongoing maintenance, many riders use specialist helmet cleaning products available at Moto Central to keep their gear in top condition.
16. How should I store my helmet?
Store your helmet in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Use a helmet bag or cover to protect it from dust and scratches when not in use. Avoid placing it on hard surfaces where it could accidentally fall.
17. How do I dispose of an old helmet?
If your helmet is no longer usable, make sure it cannot be reused. Cut the chin strap to render it unwearable, and check with your local recycling centre for disposal options. Some centres accept helmets as waste, while others might recycle components like metal parts.
Understanding Helmet Safety and Regulations
18. What safety standards apply to helmets in the UK?
In the UK, motorcycle helmets must meet ECE 22.05 or the newer ECE 22.06 standards. These certifications confirm that the helmet has undergone rigorous testing, including assessments of impact absorption, chin strap retention, and visor durability.
19. What is SHARP, and how can it help me choose a helmet?
The Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme (SHARP) is a UK government initiative that provides independent safety ratings for helmets. SHARP tests helmets under more varied conditions than standard regulations, assigning a star rating from 1 (minimum) to 5 (maximum) based on their performance. While SHARP ratings are not a legal requirement, they are an excellent resource for identifying helmets that go above and beyond basic safety standards.
20. How does SHARP testing differ from standard ECE tests?
SHARP tests helmets in a wider range of impact scenarios, including oblique and angular impacts, which replicate real-world accident conditions more closely. ECE tests ensure helmets meet baseline safety criteria, while SHARP highlights helmets that excel in additional areas of protection.
Common Questions About Buying Helmets
21. Are cheaper helmets unsafe?
Not necessarily. Many affordable helmets meet or exceed safety standards. However, premium helmets often use advanced materials like carbon fibre or include additional features such as superior ventilation, noise reduction, and integrated communication systems. The right helmet is one that fits well, meets safety standards, and suits your needs.
22. Why are there no safety ratings displayed on helmets in shops?
Safety certifications like ECE 22.05 or 22.06 are usually marked inside the helmet or on the packaging. SHARP ratings, on the other hand, are independent and published online. At Moto Central, our staff can guide you to helmets with high SHARP ratings or other noteworthy features.
23. What should I look for when buying a helmet for long rides?
For long-distance riding, prioritise helmets with excellent ventilation, noise reduction, and a comfortable fit. Modular helmets are popular among touring riders due to their versatility. Lightweight materials and advanced padding can also reduce fatigue on extended journeys.
24. Can a helmet protect against noise?
Yes, many helmets are designed with features like aerodynamic shapes and padding to reduce wind noise. Some even include integrated noise-cancelling systems. For additional noise reduction, earplugs are a practical solution.
25. Can wearing a helmet affect my hairstyle or makeup?
Helmets can cause flat hair or smudged makeup, but there are ways to minimise this. Wearing a balaclava or helmet liner can protect both your hair and the helmet’s interior lining. For makeup, a lightweight, well-ventilated helmet can reduce smudging caused by heat and perspiration.
Final Thoughts
At Moto Central, we pride ourselves on offering a wide range of helmets from leading brands, including Shoei, Arai, AGV, Shark, HJC, Nolan, LS2, Bell, and Caberg, among others. Whether you’re looking for cutting-edge safety features, a helmet for long touring adventures, or something to suit your urban commute, we’ve got you covered.
Visit our store in Leicestershire or browse online to find the perfect helmet. Our knowledgeable team is always ready to help you choose a helmet that meets your needs for safety, style, and comfort.
Ride safe, and let your helmet be your ultimate protection on the road!
