When it comes to motorcycling, helmets are the single most important piece of equipment you own. Here's how to make sure it's the right one! Helmets save lives and besides, they look cool too.
A. Determine Proper Fit.
1. Measure your head size. Pass a tape measure horizontally around your head at a height of about 1 inch above your eyebrows that results in the largest measurement.
2. Select the helmet that is closest to your head size with the above measurement. As the helmet may not always exactly meet your head size and if your head measurement falls between two helmet sizes, first try the small size.
B. Try The Helmet On.
1. Expand the helmet opening with your hands, and slide your head into the helmet. Pull the chin straps only, not the chin strap covers. Pulling on the covers may rip them. If the helmet is not tight, it is too big for you. If you are unfamiliar with helmets you may be reluctant to pull down the helmet, which should feel tight. Even if you feel it is difficult to put it on, please use the smallest helmet possible. You should feel a snug fit.
C. Check For A Proper Fit.
1. Check whether the helmet inner lining fits snugly all around your head.
2. Check whether the top pad presses closely on the top of your head.
3. Check whether the cheek pads are in contact with your cheeks.
4. Check to make sure there is no space around your brow under the inner lining, where you can insert your fingers.
5. Take hold of the helmet with a hand on each side. Without moving your head, try to move the helmet up and down, and side to side. You should feel the skin of your head and face being pulled as you try to move the helmet. If you can move the helmet around easily, it is too big. Try a smaller size.
D. Check The Retention System.
1. Fasten the chin strap as tight as possible without causing you pain. There must be no slack in the strap and it must be tight up against your chin.
2. With the chin strap secured, put your hands flat on he back of the helmet and try to push the helmet off by rotating the helmet forward.
3. Put your hands on the front of the helmet above your forehead (or on the chin guard) and try to push the helmet off by rotating it to the rear.
4. If the helmet starts to come off in either direction, do not use the helmet. Either the helmet is too large for you or the chin strap is not tight enough.
Tightening the chin strap is extremely important. Try to pull down on the chin strap with the tips of your fingers. If the strap is not up against your chin or loosens, you have not properly put the strap through the d-rings. Start again. If your chin strap is loose, the shock of impact may knock your helmet off, leaving your head completely unprotected. Do not use a helmet that can be rolled off the head with the chin strap fastened, since it may come off in an accident, resulting in death or serious personal injuries.
D-Ring: To securely fasten the d-ring retention system, thread the end of the chin strap through the d-rings and pull it tight against your throat. Clip the chin strap end hook on to the d-ring to secure the loose end of the chin strap after securely fastening the chin strap. The only function of the chin strap end hook fitted on the end of the chin strap is to avoid fluttering of the end part of the chin strap.
It's always a good idea to visit your local dealer and get his advise on the proper fit.
This guide courtesy of Shoei Helmets
