Helmet Recommendations...

BDR561 · #1 (**permalink**) 08-17-2007, 07:25 AM

OK guys...

I'm almost done with all my questions.... For those of you running track days etc... What kind/type of helmet are you using?

Went to Jegs/Summit and was overwelmed with the choices and the different ratings, etc. I know that I have to have at least a snell SN2000 or SA2000, but I see many more and don't know the difference.

Recommendations...

Thans,

Mark

JCoop · #2 (**permalink**) 08-17-2007, 07:29 AM

Bell helmets' GTX is what I use and I think they're great in terms of weight and build. Around $590 or less. Just make sure it's the correct fit. (snug)

Don · #3 (**permalink**) 08-17-2007, 07:33 AM

Might want to check for the minimum standards required by the SCCA and the sanctioning organization at the track(s) you plan to race on. Not sure, but all tracks now require full face helmets.

Michael C Henry · #4 (**permalink**) 08-17-2007, 08:32 AM

Why are helmets ment for cars so much more expensive than DOT approved motorcycle helmets?

Ibr8k4vetts · #5 (**permalink**) 08-17-2007, 07:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Michael C Henry

Why are helmets ment for cars so much more expensive than DOT approved motorcycle helmets?

Fire resistant

round_midnight · #6 (**permalink**) 08-18-2007, 09:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Michael C Henry

Why are helmets ment for cars so much more expensive than DOT approved motorcycle helmets?

As another poster has said, they're fire resistant, but also, they're designed to withstand multiple impacts such as in a rollover accident, whereas MA rated helmets are pretty much good for only one.

DAVID GAGNARD · #7 (**permalink**) 08-18-2007, 01:41 PM

Another thought, since you usually keep a helmet for some years, be sure to get one with the "rings" on the sides, just in case you ever decide to use a HANS or similar device..........

Helmet companys WILL NOT install them on existing helmets that did not origianlly come with them.....been there-done that.........

David

Don · #8 (**permalink**) 04-07-2008, 07:51 AM

Grassroots Motorsports, May edition, page 99 has an article on selecting Helmets. In addition to the commentary, 8 full face helmets are reviewed ranging in retail price from $229 ( RaceQuip RidgeLine ) to $1095 ( Sparco Titan ADV )

".....as of this writing, the best helmets for your money will bear the Snell SA2005 designation "

" A helmet is a helmet is a helmet, right? Not necessarily. We assembled an assortment of helmets, each one representing a different price point. All were full-face SA2005-rated, large size helmets. That's about where the similarities ended "

ByronRACE · #9 (**permalink**) 04-07-2008, 09:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Michael C Henry

Why are helmets ment for cars so much more expensive than DOT approved motorcycle helmets?

The justification for the high price seems to be:

"Fire resistant." or "Roll-Bar impact tested." with a "How much is your head worth?" thrown in for good measure.

IMHO, the reality for the prices being so high is supply and demand. If every helmet required an SA rating, the economics of producing them would be better; and the competition among manufacturers would be even more fierce; which drives the prices down. There just aren't as many helmet wearing race car drivers as there are motorcyclists and if you can turn a better profit selling into a smaller market, why not...whatever the market will bear.

As far as usage in a Cobra, it may seem like we're better protected than a motorcycle except for the fact that most of us have a steel bar behind our heads with a low-back seat, a steel wheel in front of our faces, no airbag, no collapsing steering column, and want to live to talk about it. I don't know about you guys, but if it was socially acceptable I'd prefer to wear a helmet on the STREET at times. I'm certainly willing to get an SA helmet if the conditions merit it; and I believe they do. Please check the condition of your belts and wear shoulder harnesses too. I'm not so certain the face shield on a helmet will withstand a direct impact into a wheel. Additionally, I've gotten rocks in the face/eye on the street...closed face is what I'm buying.

dmorse · #10 (**permalink**) 04-07-2008, 09:43 AM

I have a large (7 5/8 - 7 3/4) RCI helmet I won't be needing as I got it to participate in the Audit driving school. I can't use my Cobra since it doesn't meet the broomstick rule on the roll bar. I used three times and my daughter used once. Would sell for half price if you are interested.

ByronRACE · #11 (**permalink**) 04-07-2008, 10:29 AM

http://www.ioportracing.com/Merchant...tegory_Code=PH

I've not seen this particular helmet, but have been happy with the M versions of Pyrotect helmets. Anyone out there tried this one?

Edit....oops, that's the same as the above; I didn't realize.

Dinobyte · #12 (**permalink**) 04-07-2008, 11:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ByronRACE

http://www.ioportracing.com/Merchant...tegory_Code=PH

I've not seen this particular helmet, but have been happy with the M versions of Pyrotect helmets. Anyone out there tried this one?

Byron,

I have this helmet in white and like it alot. Very much like a Bell, infact I believe they are related.

Dinobyte

ROUSHAC · #13 (**permalink**) 08-17-2007, 03:34 PM

mar,

I've been real happy with the Pyrotect Pro Airflow SA Full Face Helmet SA2005 in white:

http://wescoperformance.stores.yahoo...mets-pyro.html

Matched my hat size well, but make sure you can return for an exchange any helmet you buy online. A good fit is critical to comfort and safety. If you can buy from a store where you can try them on.

deadbeatle · #14 (**permalink**) 08-17-2007, 06:40 PM

Mark:

I picked up a helmet from Wine Country Motor Sports in Jupiter FL (www.winecountrymotorsports.com) last week. I am a complete novice, so I went to the store to be fitted. (Going to the Reptile Roundup this year).

I went to get a Pyrotech helmet as it was recommended and the price was good for a first helmet. I could not fine one to fit me correctly. Depending on the helmet brand I was a medium or a small. I ended up with a Bell that fit very well. Price was $400+/-. These guys specialize in Race Gear and Equipment.

My advice is that you should try to go somewhere to be fitted. Trying someone elses helmet for size may not work. It's too important, not to have a correct fit (comfort, visibility).

Just my two cents. I'm not by any means an authority. Perhaps more experienced drivers will have a different opinion.

Good Luck. Since your in Florida, I'm sure we'll meet up sometime this year. Just purchased my trailer for the trips.

BDR561 · #15 (**permalink**) 08-18-2007, 05:08 AM

I agree with going somewhere to actually try them on... Just looking for recommendations of which ones to consider before I select one and then buy.

Randy Rosenberg · #16 (**permalink**) 04-09-2008, 09:27 PM

Don't forget to buy a fire-proof collar to wear around your neck between your helmet and shoulders. It works similar to a HANS device, but far less expensive. They work to prevent your head from tilting to the extremes - trust me on this one

jmarsey · #17 (**permalink**) 04-10-2008, 12:26 AM

If you purchase a neck support, get a good “wedge” type like we use in karting. These work very well, as Randy said, and do offer a fair amount of support. Once you wear one, you’ll feel naked without it. There is no substitute for the hans but this is much better than no support at all. Excellent suggestion.

http://www.pegasusautoracing.com/pro...p?Product=2123

John