Everyone should ride with a helmet. Statistics dictate that a helmet is likely to save your life if you fall with your motorcycle. That’s enough info for me, but if you look over the motorcycle consumer magazines and motorcycle shops, you find there there are a plethora of helmets to choose from. So what is the correct helmet for you to choose?
Webbikeworld is the only site I have found that actually provides which helmet fits which head shape as well as providing the standard sizing of helmets.
Helmets are designed to fit certain types of head shapes, although many helmet makers take a more generic approach which applies to the vast majority of riders. Most entry level helmets provide adequate protection, but the fit is standard not specialized. That said, there are always those that don’t fit into the standard category. It’s for those people that I write this post, partially because I am among you!
The most common helmet comes in a “neutral” head shape and the size is determined by the centimeters/inches around the widest part of the head. In order to find a motorcycle helmet with the correct fit, you should know your head size measurement before you buy any helmet. Here’s the golden rule for finding a good comfortable fit:
Your head size + Your head shape = comfortable fit
In order to make that possible, you need a tape measure or a cloth tape to take your measurement. If possible ask someone to help you do the measuring in order to get a more accurate measurement.
* Measure around the fullest part of your head just above the ears, taking the measurement at the forehead.
* The circumference of the head should be measured at a point approximately one inch above the eyebrows or at whatever point gives the largest possible measurement.
* Check the SIZE CHART provided for a correct custom fit. Each helmet maker provides their own size chart, however they seem to fall into general size categories. Check the webBikeworld chart for helmet head shape and you’ll probably find a helmet with a proper fit.
I discovered that I have a narrow oval head and there are few helmets that actually fit me properly. One of the best fitting helmets for me is the Arai Profile or the Schuberth C2 Flip-up Motorcycle Helmet. I am currently riding with a Nolan N102 which gives my a forehead hot spot and is clearly fitted for a round head shape, which I do not have. I wish I had know about the webBikeworld chart before I bought my Nolan. I prefer a flip-face helmet because I wear glasses. Many people will tell you that they do NOT trust the mechanical devices used to open the helmet. They feel that they will not hold up in a crash. Personal preference also comes into play when choosing a helmet for fit and style.
I have watched several YouTube videos on helmet sizing, but this is the best one that I found showing proper fit of a motorcycle helmet.
Ok… to wrap it up, measure your head, know your size. Try on different maker’s helmets and see which one seems to fit your head shape the best. Try to wear your helmet for at least 10 to 15 minutes around the store and do the fit tests. Many helmet stores, including Cycle Gear, offer a 7 day guarantee for helmet exchange, so that you can take it home, wear around your house, watch a video or whatever. Provided you don’t scratch, drop or seriously USE the helmet, it’s fully exchangeable.
I advise against buying a helmet over the web, unless you absolutely know what helmet size and fit you need. No matter what… get a helmet and wear it EVERY ride!