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It's time for my old dirtbike helmet to be retired. I was considering buying a nicer helmet that may serve as an on-road helmet in the next few years. I've seen several people ride on the street while wearing them (the majority on dual sports), but how safe are they? Will a decent helmet and google set offer adequate protection?

Helmet wise, I like this one because of the removable faceshield, but its out of my ballpark at $485. I was only wanting to spend $150-$170. Also, any one have recommendations?




Later,
WVUChrome...

If the helmet is DOT approved, it is legal for street use.

This would be the first time I've heard this one. I've never had any reason to believe that a dirt bike helmet would be any less safe than one normally worn on the street. I think the major difference is going to be styling, rather than safety.

sharpmagna wrote:If the helmet is DOT approved, it is legal for street use.

Legal and safe are two different things.

flynrider wrote:This would be the first time I've heard this one. I've never had any reason to believe that a dirt bike helmet would be any less safe than one normally worn on the street. I think the major difference is going to be styling, rather than safety.

I wouldn't trust some of the two piece ones, but I'd think the others would be fine. My main concern would be the googles. Just thought this would be a good place to ask.

Later,
WVUChrome...[/quote]

You should be fine with a fullface and goggles. It's what we used to wear in the old days when we couldn't afford those expensive faceshields for the old Bell. 1 pair of Scott goggles would outlast a half dozen of those early polycarbonate faceshields.

I've worn my MX helmet for street riding all the time. I just recently purchased a new one, as my old one was getting a little too 'scuffed' for my liking. Bought myself a GMAX atv/snow helmet.

http://www.g-max.com/gmax/mch_11_01.html in dark charcoal with red accents. price was right at $175CAD

I use to do it all the time, wearing a dirt bike helmet that is. Although now, I dont think I could do it. I guess Ive been spoiled by my helmet to much now.

WVUChrome wrote:

sharpmagna wrote:If the helmet is DOT approved, it is legal for street use.

Legal and safe are two different things.

Why would a DOT approved helmet be unsafe? Unsafe compared to a MX helmet? I can't imagine they're built any differently. If anything, the street orientated helmet should be safer IMO.

sharpmagna wrote: Why would a DOT approved helmet be unsafe? Unsafe compared to a MX helmet? I can't imagine they're built any differently. If anything, the street orientated helmet should be safer IMO.

Yeah, I would think the street oriented one would be safer. I have open faced DOT approved helmets I paid $15 and wouldn't even think about riding with one on the street.

I was mainly asking upon the construction and durability of MX helmets on the street and whether or not they were adequate protection.

In regards to my "legal and safe" comment, what I was trying to convey was exactly that. For instance, it's legal to ride without a helmet in some states, but it is definately not safe. Wearing a DOT approved MX helmet may be legal, but is it safe? That is my question.

Later,
WVUChrome...

despite their protruding chin, MX helmets work VERY WELL in face first collision with the ground at even 45 mph. I tested my HJC out to see if they could.

long story short, i hate emergency rooms