Road bike helmet, what do you wear?

[NPloysa]

Looking for a bike helmet! I am specifically looking for a flip-up face protector style. Closed when road riding, and open for slow, or dirt riding.



I like the Arai, Shoei, HJC, but that's about all I know of. The others, obviously DOT rated, may not be as good, but are cheaper.



What do you wear? I am looking for a blue, white, black, or silver, or combo of those, nothing with a fancy paint job or decals. Something practical and safe.



Thanks, Nick

 

[scootergmc]

Shoei Syncrotec: http://www.shoei-helmets.com/syncrotec.html



Arai XD: http://www.araiamericas.com/product/product_home.html

It's not exactly what you're looking for, but it was designed with riders like you in mind.



HJC Symax: http://www.hjchelmets.com/symax.htm



KBC FFR: http://www.kbc-helmet.com/kbcbbs/zb...&sc=on&&select_arrange=headnum&desc=asc&no=12



Nolan flip up: http://www.nolan.it/home.asp



There are others, but you can find them on your own. I'm tired. Anyway, my opinion on helmets is you get what you pay for. I use the Arai over the Shoei, primarily because they fit me just a shade better. I haven't bought one in a couple years so I haven't tried the new Shoeis. But I've never tried a flip face either. But the ventilation and comfort in my Arai is fantastic. But find a good shop and try them all on. Then go online and save some $$. Except for Arai. I think they threatened to sue everyone and their mother for selling online so you can only get them in dealer stores now. FYI, I bought my Arai quantam/f on eBay and saved about $250 over dealer prices.

 

[master1578]

I'm partial to Shoei myself. Probably because that's what I was wearing when I did my best break dance/headspin move along a stretch of NJ asphalt. Ahh, those were the days...



That's something you definitely don't want to skimp on. I've been out of the loop for a while, but from what I remember you wouldn't go wrong with any of the three you mentioned.

 

[Bertram65]

Shoei full face for the street, Shoei open face when I am riding my quad, it is a trx250x, pretty tame, if I was riding something fast I would use a full face, most of my off road riding is slow speed I like to be able to see around more with the open face.