Helmet Help

[WRRR]

To the seasoned racers out there (or at least those who get out pretty regularly) I need some advice on the practicality of helmets.

I have chosen two helmets that I think meet my needs in terms of full face, light weight, SA2005 certification and Hans but one has a removable, washable, replaceable liner and the other doesn't.

The one with the removable liner is more expensive by about 25% (~$150) but is carbon fibre and very light (~1350g). The other is a composite and slightly heavier (about 150g) than the carbon helmet.

Is the slightly lighter weight and removable liner worth the extra money. I am assuming I will sweat pretty well during events but do helmets dry out pretty well or do they get a bit friendly over time?

Heart and pose value say carbon (they do look pretty good) but I could spend the extra dollars elsewhere if it is only ego that is driving the choice.

Help please.

Cheers

[BezerkR32]

mate i cant explain what i would give to be able to wash my helmet...next one i buy will definately have this feature.

To the seasoned racers out there (or at least those who get out pretty regularly) I need some advice on the practicality of helmets.

I have chosen two helmets that I think meet my needs in terms of full face, light weight, SA2005 certification and Hans but one has a removable, washable, replaceable liner and the other doesn't.

The one with the removable liner is more expensive by about 25% (~$150) but is carbon fibre and very light (~1350g). The other is a composite and slightly heavier (about 150g) than the carbon helmet.

Is the slightly lighter weight and removable liner worth the extra money. I am assuming I will sweat pretty well during events but do helmets dry out pretty well or do they get a bit friendly over time?

Heart and pose value say carbon (they do look pretty good) but I could spend the extra dollars elsewhere if it is only ego that is driving the choice.

Help please.

Cheers

Edited July 20, 2008 by BezerkR32

[ctjet]

http://www.skylinesaustralia.com/forums/Helmets-t156168.html

[WRRR]

Stuart - that was a bit of my thinking as I have had to work with communal type BA gear and sometimes the chemicals would have to be safer than the masks. As this is hopefully a long term purchase being able to wash the liner (or replace it) would be handy.

ctjet - thanks saw the other thread but it got whored and lost the plot - funny but lost. Great idea and I'll add to it when I make up my mind on the new helmet.

I know helmet selection is very personal and each to their own but the washability and light weight does come at a price.

Cheers

Edited July 20, 2008 by WRRR

[djr81]

Wayne,

Not sure who does the washable liner - be interested to know.

With regard to dates SA2005 is the most recent. Check on your CAMS guide if a SA1995 still has a year or so compliance left in it. I haven't had any issues with scrutineers making comment because my helmet is not AS whatever compliant but then I don't go to the drags.

The hard bit is getting a helmet the right size. I have a head like a dropped pie but I mananged to fit it into an Arai open faced number. But it is an XL & they go no larger.

With regard to the liner I find if you wash what remains of your hair before use & make sure you dry the thing out after using it doesn't get stinky at all.

As for Hans make sure you are comfortable if you want to use the device. Last thing you need is a pinched nerve which can & does happen. I don't know of anyone doing sprints that does use it.

Now hurry up & get out there!!!!!!!!

[WRRR]

Wayne,

Not sure who does the washable liner - be interested to know.

With regard to dates SA2005 is the most recent. Check on your CAMS guide if a SA1995 still has a year or so compliance left in it. I haven't had any issues with scrutineers making comment because my helmet is not AS whatever compliant but then I don't go to the drags.

The hard bit is getting a helmet the right size. I have a head like a dropped pie but I mananged to fit it into an Arai open faced number. But it is an XL & they go no larger.

With regard to the liner I find if you wash what remains of your hair before use & make sure you dry the thing out after using it doesn't get stinky at all.

As for Hans make sure you are comfortable if you want to use the device. Last thing you need is a pinched nerve which can & does happen. I don't know of anyone doing sprints that does use it.

Now hurry up & get out there!!!!!!!!

Richard

Looking at the HJC full face stuff.

Can get an AR10 (white only) which is SA2005, removable/washable nomex liner, spare cheek and top pads available for $299 plus freight (say $60). Weighs about 3lb 8oz in large (from memory so don't quote me)

Or HX10 (carbon fibre) which is as for AR10 but predrilled for Hans, carbon fibre for $720 plus freight. Weighs about 3lb in large.

Or Si12 (white of matt black) SA2005, nomex liner (not removable), predrilled for Hans, composite for $560 plus freight. Weighs about 2lb 11oz.

For my dainty little scone I need an XXL (~64cm) - never thought my head was that big. Maybe the Neanderthal seeping out because its cetainly not my driving skill inflating it.

Tough choice as its that old "how much is safety worth" issue.

Are you taking Friday off? If your interested I am heading up to Collie to catch up with Snowy and crew on the Dutton. Spare seat if you want it.

Cheers

Wayne

[djr81]

FWIW don't order a helmet before you have tried it on. Chances are they don't fit & the fit is as important as any other consideration.

I was having a think about going Friday. May drive the Foulcan up for a butchers. Shame Collie is such an awful place to spectate. Hopefully it won't rain this year.

[Beer Baron]

yep, no doubt about it. fit is the number 1 most important thing.

HJC are ok. a bit on the old cheap china made side. the big brands like arai, bell, stilo, simpson etc tend to have a bit nicer designs and better finish/quality but I have no idea if they actually protect any better or not.

I have had a HJC helmet and I was happy with it for the money.

[Beer Baron]

lol, if you are buying HJC, please buy this one!

[Kaido_RR]

whats the go with motorbike helmets?

can you uses them in cams events?

[WRRR]

lol, if you are buying HJC, please buy this one!

Baron

Only for Village People Nights.

If you promise to come as the Indian I'll put on the cop helmet (and leather jodpurs)

Body, body want to feel, want to feel my body ........... (admit it you all know the tune)

lol

[Duncan]

open face helmets are generally legal but they are not as safe and some events don't allow them. Much safer to go full face both for your head and for not being knocked back at scruitineering.

I've never had a removeable liner and yes it can get sweaty esp in summer with no ac or fan. When racing I use a balaclava so its OK.

But as Richard said the only important thing raelly is shape and fit. I've had 2 different brands but tried on about 20 to get the right fit.

[BezerkR32]

i was looking at a new simpson, but you have to order it with out trying it on.

They give you all the sizing measurements, but im not sure how it will fit.

open face helmets are generally legal but they are not as safe and some events don't allow them. Much safer to go full face both for your head and for not being knocked back at scruitineering.

I've never had a removeable liner and yes it can get sweaty esp in summer with no ac or fan. When racing I use a balaclava so its OK.

But as Richard said the only important thing raelly is shape and fit. I've had 2 different brands but tried on about 20 to get the right fit.

[PSI Parts]

Just wanted to express my excitement as we have just received a few of the Sniper Racing Full Carbon Fibre helmets and the finish on them is excellent (non melting chin strap, replaceable visors, carbon weave with clear coat on top, M2005, ECE and Dot certified). You should see them in the upcoming edition of the Hot4s helmet guide too. If you were in Sydney or Melbourne I could have given you one to try on.

[EJD001]

what sorta $$$ we looking at??

[PSI Parts]

$799 http://www.sniper-racing.com/subcategory.php?id=39