Buying a Helmet

[Noyzboy100dB]

As I've signed up for a few track days, I thought about buying a helmet.
I've never had one (or a motorbike) before.
I felt that driving in someone else's borrowed helmet would probably be like driving in someone else's shoes...and might take the shine off the day.

I went into a large motorcyle shop with the intention of buying a cheap(ish) openface helmet.
I was told that:
(a) the specifications for car helmets and bike helmets are different.
(b) some places are fussy about the spec of the helmet ( Brands maybe).

Can any one shed any light on this before I shell out for the wrong thing.
"First steps in buying a helmet for newbies would be good "!!

Thanks.

Noyzboy

[FourWheelDrift]

Have a read of this - www.pistonheads.com/doc.asp?c=52&i=13304

[anonymous-user]

more has been written on this subject on pistonheads than a certain single gender racing championship!

basically, it all boils down to how much money is in your wallet.

A quick look through the latest demon tweeks catalouge shows www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/products/ProductDetail.asp?cls=MSPORT&pcode=OMPSC00605L there is not a scrutineer in the lland who could turn you away from a track day wearing this. the price goes upwards from there. fit is vital, you will know when a helmet is too tight or too loose but will need to keep it on for a few minutes before you are certain. look after it and keep it clean and it will alst for a good few years.

[RobbieMeister]

I have had two of these and found them very comfortable.

www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/products/ProductDetail.asp?cls=MSPORT&pcode=SPA331NLWBO

Viz top tip 1: If you don't fancy a nomex balaclava get a cotton or silk one as used in karting. Much easier to wash than the inside of the helmet.

Viz top tip 2: Buy a second hand helmet that is already go a crack in it. Then you won't feel completely pissed off when you drop it in the padock at Spa before you've even worn it and it cracks. (Hence the reason I've got two of them).

[RobbieMeister]

PS. Sizes vary make to make. Fit is more important than anything else so buy from a shop, not mail order.

[zebra_3]

I'm also thinking of doing my first track day soon, and don't want to get a mail order helmet for obvious reasons. Anyone know any good suppliers in west yorkshire / Leeds area.

Not sure whether to go for full or open face, I'll generally be in my sierra, but may be going round with a mate in his westfield so maybe full would be better?

Cheers for advice
Jono

[grahamdance]

Don't go to Demon Tweeks unless you want to be robbed.

Try Peter Lloyd Rallying instead.

[TeamD]

grahamdance said:

Don't go to Demon Tweeks unless you want to be robbed. Try Peter Lloyd Rallying instead.

They don't call 'em the Theiving Geeks for nuffin.

[FourWheelDrift]

I use Dread - www.dread.cc/2005/home/ but then they are local to me so more of a walk in, the website isn't that comprehensive on what they sell but they do supply Arai, Bieffe and Peltor (I use Bieffe)

[agent006]

grahamdance said:

Don't go to Demon Tweeks unless you want to be robbed.

However, do go if you want somewhere with a stock of more than 5 helmets.

[Andrew Noakes]

RobbieMeister said:

Viz top tip 2: Buy a second hand helmet that is already go a crack in it. Then you won't feel completely pissed off when you drop it in the padock at Spa before you've even worn it and it cracks.

No, I don't get it. What use is a cracked helmet?

[RobbieMeister]

Andrew Noakes said:

RobbieMeister said: Viz top tip 2: Buy a second hand helmet that is already go a crack in it. Then you won't feel completely pissed off when you drop it in the padock at Spa before you've even worn it and it cracks. No, I don't get it. What use is a cracked helmet?

No use at all, that's why I had to get another one. Home contents insurance paid out on the first one though!