Is there a helmet that doesn't ruin the experience?

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jrdudas · #1 Post by **jrdudas** » Sun Jul 16, 2006 1:28 pm

I am a long-time rider; started at age 14, but haven't riden now in several years. I hope to start riding again and I have a question about helmets. All of my early riding years were without a helmet; it just wasn't done unless you were a professional racer. I love that feeling of the wind in your hair (what's left of it anyway), however it just doesn't make sense to risk the consequences now that I know better. My later riding years were always with a helmet and I found that the experience just wasn't the same.

So here's my question; aimed mostly to long-time riders who have made the transition from no helmet to always a helmet. Have you found a helmet that is comfortable, reasonably cool (as opposed to hot and sweaty) to wear, yet still able to provide maximum protection? What about the different styles? I have read the sticky thread about helmets on the "New Biker Forum" and found it to be helpful and interesting. I think that thread is of great value to a new rider, but what about those experienced folks who have made the transition. What has the experience of going from "no helmet" to "helmet" taught you about comfort and is there a way to recreate that "no helmet" feeling?

Thanks in advance for you thoughts.

JR

ZooTech · #2 Post by **ZooTech** » Sun Jul 16, 2006 2:28 pm

The closest thing I've found is a Skid-Lid, and it's still a PITA. It fits neatly in the saddlebag, though, so I bring it along in case a lady friend wants to wear it.

Randy · #3 Post by **Randy** » Sun Jul 16, 2006 4:47 pm

No offense intended, but I would try and get used to a Snell approved helmet. I always figured it was easier to be uncomfortable than dead.

VermilionX · #4 Post by **VermilionX** » Sun Jul 16, 2006 4:55 pm

Randy wrote:No offense intended, but I would try and get used to a Snell approved helmet. I always figured it was easier to be uncomfortable than dead.

let's not go there again for 1,000,000th time.

Wheelie fever · #5 Post by **Wheelie fever** » Sun Jul 16, 2006 5:52 pm

I've never ridden without a helmet but when the bugs hit I have always wondered how much it would hurt if the shield wasnt there to protect my eyes from the little bastards. I'm just thankfull thet I've had my full face helmet when I've needed it or I wouldnt have 1/2 my face right now.

jmillheiser · #6 Post by **jmillheiser** » Sun Jul 16, 2006 6:11 pm

cant help you there. about the closest I get to helmetless is ridnig with my visor open.

scan · #7 Post by **scan** » Mon Jul 17, 2006 2:29 am

It's funny that I can't even imagine the dilema myself. I've always worn a full-helmet riding. The other day I was sweating up a strom and thinking "wouldn't I be happier without this helmet?". Then I looked at the big smashed bee on my visor and thought it was worth the sweat.

#8 Post by **bok** » Mon Jul 17, 2006 2:55 am

as one of the biggest helmet lovers on this site i won't tell you what i think you should wear, i will try to answer your question.

the closest thing to no helmet is as Zoo said, the Skid Lid. also known as the shorty or the beanie. only there to protect basically from the temples up and it's a helmet of choice of a lot of cruiser folks who live in helmet law states/provinces.

there is also the 3/4 helmet which covers pretty much everything but the face/chin

there are convertibles that allow you to flip up the face protection. these give the best of the 3/4 and full face helmet. Note that with the flip ups, paramedics say they end up jamming or did in the past so most paramedics just remove it like they would a full face.

full face, best protection but less "wind in your face".

You sound like you understand the need for the helmet but don't want to miss the freedom riding without one. I'd say get a full face for in town where the danger is pretty high and get a beanie for cruising the countryside, where you can actually feel that wind.

whatever helmet you decide on, buy a good one that fits well, and ride safe.

#9 Post by **Big B** » Mon Jul 17, 2006 9:05 am

i'd go with the beanie. i've got one, and combined with a windshield and good glasses, i don't get nailed in the face by bugs, churches, very small rocks, lead, ect. it's not perfect, but life's imperfect

ZooTech · #10 Post by **ZooTech** » Mon Jul 17, 2006 10:42 am

Big B wrote:i'd go with the beanie. i've got one, and combined with a windshield and good glasses, i don't get nailed in the face by bugs, churches, very small rocks, lead, ect.

What about mud or cherries?