inexpensive helmet for Solo II?

[dboyles]

There are surely some more specialized boards to which I could post this question, but I'm already a member on enough boards. So I'll ask here.

I've autocrossed a couple of times before, but not since I got my BMW. There's an event coming up in a few weeks that I plan to enter just for the fun/experience. They will no doubt have loaner helmets, but that's not really ideal. Plus, I've got a pretty big noggin, so I'm considering buying my own. The problem is, I don't have a huge budget. $150 is my target expenditure, although that might not be realistic.

The only type of racing that the helmet will see is Solo II events. It might possibly see a track day or a driver's education, if that makes a difference. Is open-face out of the question? What are some brands and models of helmet to look for?

[makaio]

G-force racing. Good quality, fit and finish, and price. Yeah it isn't as lite as some of them, but I don't wear mine for more than 20-30 minutes at a time.

I

[dboyles]

Thanks Matt. I've seen some G-Force helmets for sale online, but wasn't sure about the quality. I'll look into them. I agree that the weight of the helmet isn't that big of a deal in Solo II.

[rich22]

Originally posted by dboyles
The only type of racing that the helmet will see is Solo II events. It might possibly see a track day or a driver's education, if that makes a difference. Is open-face out of the question? What are some brands and models of helmet to look for?

Pyrotect open face SA2000 for $165:
http://www.ioportracing.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=SA-2000-O&Category_Code=PH

There has been some recent rumblings from the SCCA about airbags possibly causing a broken neck with a full face helmet. They might require either open face helmets or proof the airbag has been disabled at some point in the future for Solo II.

Personally, I think a closed face is safer in a wreck, but a lot of racers use open face in closed cars. This helmet will avoid any Solo II hassles in the future and is SA rated for those organizations that require it.

[HarryD]

Check with the group you plan to run with. Many will allow the use of a M2000 rated helmet for AutoX. You can pick these up at a Motorcyle shop.

Worry about fit and comfort not brand. If it has a Snell foundation Stamp, it alrerady meets a fairly high level of protection.