Helmet Sources

[vesnyder]

What possible sources would you guys recommend for a helemt - primarily for Auto-X. Did my first real Auto-X this past weekend and had a blast, but by Snell 80 helmet did not pass inspection. Not sure I want to spend $479 on a new helmet, but would not feel good with one costing $19.99 either? What woud you recommend? Anyone experienced with eBay for helmets?

[Alan Cottrill]

when I bought my first motocycle helmet the salesman asked me a question that stuck with me, "how much is your head worth?" I know he was selling me a helmet but it made sence.

so I ask you, how much is your head worth?

and whatever you do don't buy a used helmet.

[MotoSook]

You can buy a full face Bell M2 helmet for about 300. I've seen prices from 285-299. It's SA 2000 rated.

An open face Mag 2 helmet is less, but you'll have to decide if you want and open face or full face...

[Teutonics]

A suggestion on helmet selection: definitely try on the helmet before purchasing, and if possible, keep it on for 15-20 minutes..... you'll feel stupid sitting there in the store with a helmet on, but it's the only way to know that it won't give you excruciating headaches later (not good during DE or autoX).

Good luck!

[ChrisBennet]

Like Allen said, try before you buy. If there aren't any places that carry SA rated helmets where you live, look for a auto/racing/performance swap meet. I got my helmet a Chevy/Ford swap meet held in a huge auditorium.
-Chris

[sithot]

Nothing in the world fits like an Arai and I've tried them all. Thye can get expensive but the fit is so good I could sleep in any of mine they are so comfortable. http://www.araiamericas.com/

[MotoSook]

A good tip my motorcycle instructors told me about helmet selection...wear it and walk around the store for at least 5 minutes..when you take the helmet off, your forehead should not be red from the compression and you should not be teary eyed from the pain. Snug is good and your head should move up and down with the helmet if you grab it and push up and down on the chin.

Look for go cart racing stores too...I got mine at a kart racing supply place.

[sammyg2]

racers wholesale. www.racerwholesale.com sells G-force helmets, they are good helmets and not as expensive as a bell or simpson.

Get an SA2000, they sell an open face SA2000 for around $150, the full face version is around $190. They're kevlar/nomex.

[lendaddy]

I agree, Arai helmets are fantastic. But if you will only be using it for AX I wouldn't drop the big bux thats for sure.

[Vipergrün]

The helmets all have to meet a minimum set of safety and testing guidelines for Snell certification. So, you can start cheap, like a G-Force, then start paying more for features such as lighter weight, venting, etc. I have a G-Force open face, and had the Bell M2, which was really nice. I had to return it unused to get the car fixed I also like the Beiffe. As for size, if you are between size, like I am, size down for a snug fit.

Good luck!

[reesestewww]

http://www.discoveryparts.com/ ...ask for Ron....GREAT service

[banjomike]

I bought a helmet from

www.helmetcity.com

They were nice, and even though they are a internet only shop they are local to me so I went over and tried it on. I got a SA2000 open face helmet (lighter) for $179. I belive they are willing to accept returns based on fit. Note the kevlar helmets are lighter, and the fiberglass helmets are cheaper.

Some of the above links seem pretty good to.

[Wil Ferch]

I think the outfit is Bellmotorsports.com...nice prices on Bell helmets.
--Wil Ferch

[jluetjen]

Some things to keep in mind...

Snell Rating: M rated helmets are for motocycle use, but not legal for many motorsports use. SA ratings are required for most (if not all) racing and often at auto-x's. I've been told that SA's are not legal for motorcycle use since they are not DOT rated.

A handy note from Pegasus Auto Racing Supplies is that helmets should fit as snug as possible without causing discomfort. Measure the head circumference around the largest part of the head approximately 1 inch above the eyebrows and just above the ears. If you are going to wear a hood or balaclava, you should have it on when trying on the helmet. If you don't have it available add 1/4 inch for a single layer hood and 1/2 for a double layer.

Finally, NEVER buy a used helmet. Why? It may not be sized correctly for you. Most importantly, helmets are only good for 1 solid hit or accident. The shells are pre-stressed and "pop" when hit to dissipate some of the energy. If you use a helmet which is popped, it will be only a fraction as effective as a new one. If you have had an accident, you can send your helmet to the manufacturer to be checked to see if there is any life left in it.

Other sources in addition to Pegasus and Racers Wholesale (both good companies):

Truechoice
Essex Racing

[ChrisBennet]

I know people buy helmets and ski boots without trying them on first but it seems to me that you would be settling for a poorer fit that way.
-Chris

"If you've got a $10 head, get a $10 helmet" I tried to find one of those $10 helmets without any luck.

[Amac]

"HelmetCity.com" is the place!
I have a simpson "Speedway RX",
It's Kevlar and very light. (about $500)
You can also get nice Simpson Bandit for
around $300. Both have a SA2000 rating
and very cool.