[Eli]

Hi all, as an alternative to renting I am looking to buy a helmet. Does any one have any suggestions? places to order, etc.

Just looking for a basic helmet, nothing fancy. In my opinion, and past experience with motorcycle helmets, the higher priced units generally are more comfortable but in no way any safer, as all must at least meet SNELL and DOT standards.

Thanks in advance!
Eli

[87turbolook911]

Here's what I got from OG Racing:



Fits me great! But you'll want to try on helmets before buying to make sure they fit you well.

[APKhaos]

The first time a chunk of rubber flies through your driver's window and whacks you in the face you'll wish you had bought a full face with a visor

Ask me how I know [the rubber bit - I have the visor but it was up at the time. Doh!]

[racer]

Be sure to get one with the appropriate SNELL rating. Also, if its for use in a car, be sure it is "SA" approved. Motorcycle helmets are not. In essance, SA rating allows for multiple "hits" (like when you roll your car and your head hits the roof, windows, roll bar etc) whereas the non sa ratings are built for one big hit.

Absolutely be sure to test fit a helmet. If you wear glasses, make sure there is room to get them in and out comfortably. If you wear a neckbrace, communicator, balacava or anything else that would impact fitment, bring it along to try out with the helmet. Like shoes, different brands vary in sizes.

After you find a local place to try one on, and know what you want, then feel free to search for the best price. Pegasus racing, OG racing and I am sure there are more to choose from.

I would strongly suggest a full face helmet, but I don't think any of the clus REQUIRE a full face.

Oh, and as th old Bell Helmets ads read: "A $10 helmet for a $10 head" It's your knoggin, protect it accordingly!

[Eli]

Thanks for all the input. I'm definately going with a full face, leaning towards Bell. Since I have to pick up some SWEPCO and new brake lines, I'll try on some helmets when I go to OG as well.

[APKhaos]

Originally Posted by racer

In essance, SA rating allows for multiple "hits" (like when you roll your car and your head hits the roof, windows, roll bar etc) whereas the non sa ratings are built for one big hit.

Well, not exactly. This is an urban myth that seems to pop up every so often. MA and SA helmets are identical from a shock survival viewpoint - SNELL tests are the same for both. SA helmets are required to be fire resistant, and are lined with Nomex or similar material. Motorcycle helmet standard does not include the fire specification or testing.

In fact, some manufacturers produce an identical helmet in both SA & MA versions.

Please don't take this the wrong way Racer - its just worth knowing the facts about MA vs SA specs.

OG normally has a great range of helmets and good size spread in stock for most models. Bill's stock may be a little low this late in the season, but its a great place to start. Don't buy a helmet without trying it on and knowing it fits. The inital fit should be quite firm - the lining will pack down a little after a few brain bakes in the summer heat.

[Vicegrip]

SA 2000 will be good for Potomac De events through 2009. Next year the 1995 Snell SA helmets will go out of date but not untill the 2005 helmets come out. As soon as the 05s come out the 95s will be obsolete. Don't feel bad getting a 2000. Trust me after 5 seasons of sweat you will be glad to chuck your now 5 year old helmet. The 2000s wil likely go on some smalll discount when the 05s come out.

For the most part the more you pay the less you get. Weight that is... The lighter the better and it adds up after a long high G weekend but the Snell SA entry level helmets are good for 99% of the driving done by most folks.

[Eli]

Thanks guys!

[racer]

Originally Posted by APKhaos

Please don't take this the wrong way Racer - its just worth knowing the facts about MA vs SA specs.

No offense taken.. I guess I was just perpetuating what I was told...

[OldTee]

Get one that fits. Not your head but ON your head inside the car.
:P