D.O.T. & Helmets

[mnnden]

A lot of talk about helmets since the QB took a spill, I believe in wearing a helmet but just wearing a Helmet does not mean much unless it is good helmet, I think there is a big misunderstanding when it comes to the meaning of D.O.T. here is a good read, if it does not pass the snell test you might just as well wear a baseball cap, (just my opinion) Den
http://www.mmsp.org/helmets/snell.htm

[big papa]

if it does not pass the snell test you might just as well wear a baseball cap, (just my opinion)

Another helmet opinion...

[mnnden]

Bill, I believe in the wearing of a helmet, there are many who do not, I respect that! what I am trying to say is that if you are going to wear a helmet thinking it is going to give you some protection, you should be aware of the different ratings. Recently a lady biker (new to biking) dropped by on her new bike with her new helmet, (no rating), I asked her if she wouldn't do a little research on helmets, and then deciede for herself. I think a person should make an enformed decision, Again, Just my opinon, Den

[fnfalman]

There is currently a big debate whether or not a Snell helmet is actually worse than a DOT helmet. The people that are holding this debate is quite persuasive in their arguments (USC professor did the research so it ain't like Joe Schmoe Harley Rider telling you about helmet ratings).

Me personally, I'd rather have a European spec or British spec helmet. Since that I live in a helmet law state, I have to wear a DOT or DOT/Snell helmet or risk getting a ticket. Stupid, huh? In a helmet law state I am relegated to wearing inferior helmets as compared to a non-helmet law state where I can wear a better spec helmet.

[Beemeridian]

56

[R4R&R]

I think there has been talk about re-vamping the U.S. helmet rating system. Apparently the DOT and SNELL tests are pretty old and outdated.

[LonestaRR]

Fnfalman said:

Me personally, I'd rather have a European spec or British spec helmet.

Can you give a recommendation on a helmet and dealer?

[ebiker]

Since that I live in a helmet law state, I have to wear a DOT or DOT/Snell helmet or risk getting a ticket. Stupid, huh? In a helmet law state I am relegated to wearing inferior helmets as compared to a non-helmet law state where I can wear a better spec helmet.

Don'tcha just love helmet laws that are drawn up by a bunch of fools who never even rode a motorcycle?

Ed..

[Motorrad]

As I understand it; a DOT rating is simply the maufacturers opinion that their helmet will meet the Dept of Transportation's quality specs, the helmet does not have to be tested or proven adequate. The Snell rated helmet has in fact been tested and certified.

As far as whether or not to wear a helmet, that's a personal choice, and to each his own. I happen to advocate wearing helmets because, in the number of times I've gone down, I've never avoided hitting my head/helmet (I don't know, maybe I have a weak neck or something). Plus, I enjoy riding way too much to risk having to trade my YJ in for a wheel-chair or hospital bed.


Kristi,

There are a lot of helmet manufacturers out there that make a quality product; you just have to do a little comparison shopping on the web. My current helmet is a Nolan flip-up. Unfortunately, it’s not Snell certified, but it received very good ratings against others in its class. I prefer the flip up because it allows me to drink from a bottle without having to change my shirt afterwards.

Sorry for rambling.