*More Motorcycle Helmet Trivia*

We've all heard of a helmet having a "Snell" rating. Did you ever wonder what or who "Snell" is? Well, if you have, you are in luck because we're about to learn more about this. If not, well just bear with me and maybe you'll be glad you did...or not.

There are different safety agencies that govern whether a helmet is safe enough to protect your head in the event of a crash. One of these agencies is Snell. Though unlike "DOT", Snell is not a government agency.

One safety agency that wasn't government aided was the Snell Memorial Foundation. It was formed in 1957 in memory of William "Pete" Snell, a sports car racer fatally injured in a racing accident. His friends and widow formed the Foundation for the purpose of providing independent motorcycle helmet testing, with no bias to the government or the manufacturer. Their testing focused on performance, rather than materials and design. They're now recognized and respected as the world leader in helmet testing. Every good helmet has a Snell Sticker in it.

To get a look a the 2010 Snell Motorcycle helmet standards go the link: http://www.smf.org/

When buying a new helmet, which you should do at least every five years, make sure it is either DOT approved or Snell approved.

*Where Did The First Motorcycle Helmet Come From?*

To answer this question let's go back to the first motorcycle. It's reported that the first motorcycle was invented by Gottlieb Daimler in 1885. It's not thought to have been built for speed like the motorcycles built today. With speed not being a factor, nobody really thought of motorcycle helmets. But human nature rules, so naturally we had build them to go faster and faster. But as the speed of motorcycles increased, so did the fatal accidents.

Between 1931 and 1953, the race for the fastest motorcycle was between two competitors- Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycles. It was then that University of Southern California Professor C.F. "Red" Lombard developed a motorcycle helmet designed to absorb the shock of an impact. Along with the layer of padding in a helmet, this helmet also had another outer layer of padding that not only absorbed, but spread out the energy created by impact. In 1953, Professor Lombard applied for a patent for his helmet. This was the beginning of the development of the modern-day motorcycle helmet.

How To Buy A Properly Sized Motorcycle Helmet

Before you start your search for a motorcycle helmet, or take the next step towards buying a helmet, you should be aware of how motorcycle helmets are meant to fit. When buying a helmet, how do you know that it fits correctly? Buying a helmet that offers maximum protection requires you to have an understanding of the proper sizing and fit. For both safety and comfort, it is essential that you wear a proper fitting motorcycle helmet. Many new riders end up buying a helmet that is too large. While this may be comfortable, it may not be tight enough to remain on your head during a crash, and will therefore provide less protection than a properly fitted motorcycle helmet.

Most motorcycle helmet manufacturers have size charts to assist you in choosing the appropriate size. Most helmets come in small, medium, large, and extra-large. Keep in mind that not all helmets are made the same; sizes often vary between manufacturers. Before buying a helmet, you will need to have an idea of your approximate size. Measuring the head is a good starting point for determining your correct motorcycle helmet size. Measure around your head at a point about an inch above the eyebrows, which will result in the largest possible circumference. Hat size can be another rough starting point for determining your motorcycle helmet size.

When buying a helmet, always be sure to try it on, either at the store or when it arrives in the mail. When trying on a full face motorcycle helmet, make sure that the helmet rests just above your brow-line. Try to fit your thumb between the helmet and your forehead. The helmet should rest so closely against your forehead that there is no room left to fit a finger. Conversely, if you feel like the helmet will leave red marks on your skin or it's so tight that it is uncomfortable to get onto your head, it may be too small. Make sure that it does not obstruct your field of vision. Shake your head to check that the helmet feels secure, not too loose, on your head. If you wear prescription glasses, make sure that you will be able to wear them comfortably with the helmet.

If you are a woman, it is also crucial to understand the differences between men's and women's helmets. Although these differences are subtle, and you may even not notice any stylistic difference, buying a helmet that fits you correctly is crucial if you want for maximum protection while riding. If you accidentally end up buying a helmet designed for men, it will not fit as well as a helmet designed for women. In addition to potential design variations, most women's motorcycle helmets are slightly smaller than the same size in men's motorcycle helmets.

Motorcycle Helmet Mohawks: Fashion Statement Or Safety Device

There is a new trend in motorcycle riding gear known as motorcycle Mohawks. These multi-colored accessories attach to motorcycle helmets through the use of suction cups. In bright red, green, yellow, sleek black and other bright colors, these unique new accessories are meant to help you look cool on the road and get noticed. Motorcycle Mohawks are also a safety feature, as their bright colors and distinctive look help you to be seen by drivers, or even by spectators during a motorcycle race.

Choose a motorcycle Mohawk to match the color of your bike, your helmet, or your favorite riding gear. Many riders with black hair choose black so that it looks like their real hair spiked on the top of their helmet. Motorcycle Mohawks are fiberglass, meant to withstand any riding speed. Their suction cups will keep them firmly on top of your motorcycle helmet even with the wind blowing in your face and at speeds of up to 200 mp

As motorcycle riding becomes more and more popular, many riders have begun looking for a way to set themselves apart from the pack. Motorcycle Mohawks are definitely a unique way to do just that. Stand out and show your individuality with this new motorcycle helmet accessory. In a wide array of colors and styles, this bristled fashion statement is considered by many riders to be the epitome of cool.

Some riders feel that the ultimate expression of freedom is riding without a motorcycle helmet, but in may cased the law requires a helmet to protect the rider's safety. If you must wear a motorcycle helmet but don't like that it looks the same as every other rider's, a motorcycle Mohawk is a great way to express your individuality and show your rebellious side while staying safe and following the helmet law.

DOT Approved Motorcycle Helmets: The Safe Option

For safety reasons, it is essential that you buy the appropriate motorcycle riding gear. The most important piece of gear is a quality motorcycle helmet. When purchasing a new helmet, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. In addition to any stylistic concerns, you must concern yourself with the overall safety of the helmets you are considering. Don't just take the seller's word about the safety features. Is the helmet DOT approved? Choosing only DOT approved helmets ensures that your helmet has passed certain safety standards implemented by the Department of Transportation.

DOT approved helmets have been certified by the DOT as meeting rigorous safety standards. If you do not choose a DOT helmet, it will not protect your head if you should crash. Most areas also require DOT approved motorcycle helmets if you are riding on the road; you can get in trouble with the law simply on the basis of using a non-DOT helmet. Plus, the bottom line is that non-DOT approved helmets won't go very far in protection you from injury. This is not a helmet that you should trust with your life.

To identify DOT approved motorcycle helmets, first look for a DOT sticker, which is usually found at the back of the helmet, towards the bottom. There should also be a DOT label sewn into the helmet lining. Every motorcycle helmet sold in the U.S. must be evaluated by the Department of Transportation, but not all models will gain DOT approval.

How does a helmet become DOT approved? Each helmet model undergoes rigorous testing to ensure that it meets or exceeds safety regulations. These include impact test, drop test, and other methods to simulate a crash situation. The results of these test must show that the helmet offers adequate protection, including impact and penetration protection and the ability to remain securely on the rider's head during an accident. All motorcycle helmets sold in the U.S. must have at least a 210 degree field of vision to qualify for DOT approval. By choosing approved helmets, you can be sure that you are getting the best protection possible.