If you ride a motorcycle, you need to have a helmet that will keep you safe. Of course, not everyone is buying a new helmet every year. Some riders have vintage helmets that they love. However, it can be hard to know if it provides enough protection. You don’t necessarily need to spend a lot of money to have the best motorcycle accessories, but you should at least know if your gear is safe.

Checking the Safety of Older Helmets

Helmets are typically rated by one of more safety organizations. The Department of Transportation in the U.S. provides basic safety testing for new helmets. The Economic Commission for Europe fills a similar role in the E.U. but has more rigorous standards. The Snell Foundation offers very rigorous, optional testing. The SHARP Helmet Safety Scheme offers more in-depth ratings with zone-specific impact data.

Older helmets may not have been subjected to the above safety ratings. Unfortunately, there is no way to know if an unrated helmet would stand up to these tests without performing the tests (they are destructive). You could look up the helmet to see if it has been tested.

Otherwise, you may want to buy a new helmet. There are many vintage-look options with clearer safety information. Plus, most helmets should be replaced at least every five years or after any accidents.

How To Choose a Motorcycle Helmet Online When Unable To Try It On

When you buy motorcycle helmets online, you can not always test them out. Finding a good fit is one of the most important elements of ensuring safety. Fortunately, you can get a good sense of whether a helmet will fit based on the sizing information.

Most helmets are sized with two parameters: circumference and shape. The former is simple. It is the distance around the widest part of your head (just above the ears). You can measure with a tape or string.

Shape can be one of three options: round oval, long oval or intermediate oval. The former means that your head is about as wide as it is long (when viewed from the top). Long oval means that your head is significantly longer than it is wide. Intermediate oval is in between. If you know the size and shape of your head, you can get a good sense of whether a helmet will fit well.

What Some of the Best Motorcycle Accessories Are

Helmets are the best motorcycle accessories because they keep you safe. Other gear should also be a high priority.

Some other items are also great choices. For example, good motorcycle mirrors will give you a superior field of vision when your ride. Additionally, luggage accessories can help you to secure your possessions more safely.

Order a New Helmet Today

Learn more about helmets and other accessories today. Making sure you have the right gear to ride can be the difference between life and death in an accident. Don’t wait until you crash to realize that you need a new helmet. Check the safety ratings and replace your helmet every three to five years or after any major crash.