Cheap helmet recommendations?
 

Anyone have some cheap helmet ideas? I can get a a scorpion for $50..Don't know about that brand. Any input is appreciated.

Your brain isn't something to cheap out on. I would save and plan on spending at least $100. Look into HJC and AFX. They make decent helmets for relatively inexpensive. I spent about $150 on an AFX. I'm very happy with the quality of it. A long time ago, I had an Arai...those were the days.

All helmets sold in the US have to meet DOT standards so they'll all be safe. In many cases the cheaper helmets test better than the $500+ helmets. I use a $39 open face from Walmart because skidding down the road on my face might improve my looks.

Personal opinion, do NOT skimp out on a helmet. It is the only "real" protection between your skull and the pavement/stationary object. Don't be a squid. As the famous Jeremy Clarkson said, "Speed never killed anyone, it's becoming stationary that gets you." You may be the best rider in the world, but other drivers are unaware and negligent, texting, facebooking etc. Don't risk it, BUY the helmet BEFORE the bike. Always been my moto.

IIHS - "Because serious head injury is common among fatally injured motorcyclists, helmet use is important. Helmets are about 37 percent effective in preventing motorcycle deaths and about 67 percent effective in preventing brain injuries." Cited from NHTSA

Get at least a DOT approved helmet, if not a ECE approved helmet. It's your choice, you don't need a extremely expensive helmet but a medium range one would be perfect.

I bought the AFX FX-39DS helmet

It's great, I have a gold reflective shield that drops down independent of the clear shield. It also allows you to use MX goggles with the visor down. I have my SENA cam and bluetooth on it as well.

I agree with mudflap. they all meet standards. however.....higher prices mean you might get newer space-age materials that are lighter, which leads to less fatigue. or they are more comfortable because they have extra (or proper) linings inside to help that part.

in the end, I use HJCs a lot myself. partly for price, but partly because they fit my head well.

the bottom line though, if you don't wreck, you don't even NEED a helmet! :hi:

a friend of mine has a scorpion helmet and likes it alot

my personal take on helmets is comfort is #1

there are all kinds of helmets that are inexpensive on amazon, and ebay but i would suggest finding one that fits you and is comfortable for you before you spend the money.

measure your head just above your ears then
check the sizing chart from the manufacturer before you buy one, some places wont take returns on helmets so make sure its right the first time.

here is something that might be helpful along the lines of comfort. if you find a helmet on the list you find fits you well, it might lead you to others that are at a price point you can afford.

http://www.lidpicker.com/free-data/

I have an HJC CL-17 full-face; I like it as it's good value (just over $100), is DOT and SNELL approved, and is big so it fits my giant noggin.

It is noisy though. This is less of an issue as I habitually wear plugs when riding.

From my research I like a Polycarbonate composite shell so I use this one. It runs small so if anyone buy's one get the next larger size. I also like having dual visors with the inner visor tinted. These guys have given me good support.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

If you have a Cycle Gear near you, their house brand "Bilt" are good helmets and reasonably priced. I linked the dirt bike helmets but they have open face and others.

https://www.cyclegear.com/dirt-bike-helmets

I have a monster melon (all sinus, very little brain) so my helmets need to fit just so...and I've now bought three of these. Right around 100.00 and fit really well with removable cheek pads. Nicest fitting helmet I've had in a long time. Doesn't put a dent in my forehead.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

wow thanks for all the input, i will check all this out. that lipicker link is really helpful! curious about the flip up helmets, never had one of those

I have 15 year old helmet that was stored in an helmet bag, that was stored in a helmet box that was inside of my gear bag. The gear bag was in a closet. You don't have to understand that because it made sense to me. :)

I dont think Snell will certify the flip ups. I could be wrong. Helmets do expire, at least racing helmets. I think it is 10 years on my SA rated helmet.

try to find the lightest one you can cause a heavy helmet will protect the head but break the neck in a crash.

Helmet Saying
 

I heard this one saying that holds pretty true. "Don't wear a 30 minute helmet on an hour ride!" I once picked up a motorcycle in Tallahassee and rode it to Tampa. After an hour, my head was killing me! And I had hours to go! I currently have an AFX and like it.