Best shop to visit to try on helmets?

[Kiltie]

I have an odd shaped head and helmets are either too tight fore / aft or two loose side to side.

I therefore need to visit somewhere in order to try some on with a view to making a purchase.

I'm wondering where in the UK people think is the best place to go in terms of range and likelihood of being attended to by someone who is knowledgeable and helpful.

Brief spec would be ...

• Blue book compliant for a few years.
• Full face.
• Nice snug fit.
• Light so likely CF.
• HANS posts.
• Budget up to £1,500.
• Maybe pre-wired for intercom (not essential).

Stilo's don't fit.

Best hat I ever had was an Impact but I think they must have lost accreditation as I can't see any UK stockists.

Thanks in anticipation.

[carl_w]

GPR at Silverstone?

http://gprdirect.com

[woof]

Try the new Bell carbon lid range
http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/motorsport/helmets/b...

or
http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/motorsport/helmets/b...

Using DT for examples purposes.

[Madgit]

Where do you live?

[huwdm]

If you can get to the demon tweeks shop they have loads to try on.

[Kiltie]

Thanks folks.

I'm in North Scotland so intend to combine this with a trip somewhere for something else - for instance GPR and a meeting at Silverstone.

I tried to speak to DT on the phone sbout this but the two people I've spoken to couldn't be bothered. As a result, they wouldn't be my first choice.

It would just be nice to deal with someone who has a decent range but also the knowledge, time ahd inclination to help me select the best piece of kit for my needs.

[Mr_Thyroid]

Kiltie said:

Thanks folks.

I'm in North Scotland so intend to combine this with a trip somewhere for something else - for instance GPR and a meeting at Silverstone.

I tried to speak to DT on the phone sbout this but the two people I've spoken to couldn't be bothered. As a result, they wouldn't be my first choice.

It would just be nice to deal with someone who has a decent range but also the knowledge, time ahd inclination to help me select the best piece of kit for my needs.

I found Demon Tweeks's service frustrating also. I went to their stand at Autotrader and said I have an old OMP helmet which I have been very happy with and asked if I could try on a new one. They said I should get a helmet from a company that only makes helmets and brought me a Bell one instead.

The Nicky Grist Stilo stand was good. I tried on a couple but they weren't quite right however they had a guy from Stilo who measured my head, adjusted the padding and I got a very nice fit.

[Son of Flinny]

As a first timer this year, I also wanted to try everything on, suits the lot.

I can't recommend GPR at Silverstone enough.

They gave me all the time and advice I needed to get the items I was happy with.

Combine your trip with a track day or watching an event and you won't go wrong.

[stuartj]

I have also run for some years with an Impact helmet, which fits my (possibly similar to OP) odd shaped head - but have found that the Simpson Bandit is similar fit and good value...worth a try.

[simes43]

STAND 21 at Brands Hatch. Their IVOS helmet has lots of internal padding options that
the team uses to ensure a perfect fit. Very light too.

[majordad]

I believe the Stand 21 people at Brands will measure your head and build a helmet to size.

[MrCippo]

hi Eric, if you try and want to buy an Arai GP-6S, give me a shout, I can get you a really much better deal for new than any shops, any sizes.

[woof]

Just an update on my Bell purchase - I'm beginning to seriously question whether I did the right thing buying it at AIS in Jan through Demon Tweeks. initially promised a 2 week delivery time, then extended to 6 weeks and now maybe by the end of the month.

DW aren't being particularly helpful - they had 1 helmet come in but sold it to someone else!

Latest update from Bell is that the new HP5 will not be available for another 8 weeks.
The issue is with Bell not DW. Good job - develop a new helmet, start to sell it and then say it won't be available to mid season !

Edited by woof on Tuesday 18th February 10:12

[Mr.Jimbo]

Another recommendation for GPR - though I've never used DT.

Very helpful chaps and gave me all the time in the world even though I was only buying karting gloves and boots. Took an interest in what I was planning to do as well which was nice.

We also get discount through work which helps!

[woof]

Seriously pi55ed off with Bell. Now saying it will be another 8 weeks on top of the 8 weeks it's already been.

So thinking about swapping to Stilo - anyone have thoughts. Look nice but seem smaller than a Bell ?

[spyderman8]

And yet another +1 for GPR at Silverstone. Might be worth ringing first to tell them when your coming to make certain they have stock of the sizes you'd like to try.

[woof]

Just wanted to give a big thanks to Nicky Grist - sorted me out a new Stilo, same day, plenty of advice and fitment.
Great customer service. Bell and Demon Tweeks could take a leaf out of his book !

Bell update on the HP5 is that it is now expected May 4th (possibly) - I'm told that they most likely have had more important orders to fulfil for HP7 single seater helmets so are putting all their resources into those

http://www.nickygrist.com/