Advice on helmet

[bdelima]

Looks like I'll need a new helmet for the upcoming BMWCCA school at VIR. I have a Sheoi(sp?) M90 rated helmet that fits nicely from a previous motorcycle I owned, but the rules stipulate the helmet must be SA/M 95 or better. What's a good helmet to get for occasional use? What do most folks get for casual use? A $500 or above auto racing helmet seems like total overkill for my needs. Was thinking I'd prefer an open face model for the car (as opposed to full-faced on a bike). M-rated helmets seem less expensive. Any input? Any good e-tailers anyone can recommend?

[Kent D]

SA rated helmets are more expensive because they have a fire retardant (nomex) liner that SM rated helmets aren't required to have. Some tracks/events require SA rated helmets, while others will let you get by with SM.

Try looking at:

<a href="http://www.helmetcity.com">http://www.helmetcity.com</a>

look at the Simpson LX N... also the HJC CL-5.

Kent

[Dan Law]

and can be recertified for future standards.

Dan Law
PTC, GA

[Tim]

Once you decide on M versus SA--which is both lined in Nomex (which is fireproof) and is required to pass a multi-impact test--fit is the most important aspect of selecting a helmet. Unfortunately, trying them on is hard because few places stock SA helmets. If you live anywhere near Philly, go to the show at the Fort Washington Expo center this weekend (http://www.aarn.com/msshow.html); the vendors will have every major brand in your size.

Cheers,

Tim