How to choose your motorcycle helmet? Discover our guide

The motorcycle helmet is the accessory that can really make the difference between life and death in a motorcycle accident.

To make the right choice among all these helmets, our experts will guide you throughout this complete guide. From the different types of helmets to important features and the safety standards to follow, our BMW motorcycle enthusiasts tell you everything you need to know about this protective accessory.

Let's find out all this together now!

4 types of motorcycle helmets

As you already know, the helmet is an essential part of safety equipment for motorcyclists. This is also why this accessory is mandatory in many countries to protect your head and face against injuries in the event of a motorcycle accident.

Before buying your BMW motorcycle helmet, you still need to find the one that will be perfectly suited to your needs. Do you have a rather big head? Or on the contrary, a small head? Do you have a big budget to allocate to your future motorcycle helmet? For each profile, there is a suitable helmet.

Find in particular:

• The full-face helmet: ideal for long distances and high speeds, this is a great model that offers complete protection of the head and face, but can retain heat in summer;
• The modular helmet: this type of helmet also offers complete protection of the head and face, but the front part can be raised to offer better ventilation to the pilot;
• The jet helmet: light and comfortable, this model of motorcycle helmet offers minimal protection, because it does not cover the chin and jaw, which makes it less safe in the event of an accident;
• The GS helmet: designed for off-road use, it is specifically effective against rock and dirt projections and offers better ventilation for extreme use.

As you can read, each of these helmets offers very specific protection. According to our experience, to optimize your safety on the road when you ride two wheels, full-face helmets made of a shell (full and enduro) are more versatile. Obviously, other headsets are also very suitable for more specific uses.

Choosing your motorcycle helmet: 5 characteristics to take into account

We have just presented to you the different models of motorcycle helmets available on the market. Obviously, knowing which model to choose is not enough to choose a helmet perfectly suited to your needs. We will list additional features for you to consider before purchasing your helmet.

1. Comply with the ECE standard

The ECE standard for motorcycle helmets is a technical regulation established by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe.

Helmets approved to the ECE standard undergo rigorous testing, including:

• Shock tests;
• Penetration;
• Abrasion resistance;
• Etc.
  
  

This standard also establishes comfort and quality criteria for motorcycle helmets, in order to guarantee their effectiveness and durability.

When choosing your motorcycle helmet, you absolutely must buy a helmet on which the ECE standard is mentioned.

2. The shape and size of the helmet

Choosing a motorcycle helmet adapted to your shape and size is essential to guarantee optimal protection and maximum driving comfort. Here are the 4 steps to follow to choose a helmet perfectly suited to your body type:

1. Measure your head circumference: Use a tape measure to measure the circumference of your head, just above your eyebrows and ears.
2. Choose a shape that fits your head: Motorcycle helmet manufacturers usually offer helmets with different shell shapes to accommodate different head shapes. There are oval, round or elongated helmets.
3. Try several sizes: Motorcycle helmet manufacturers generally offer helmet sizes ranging from XS to XXL.
4. Check the fit: Once you have chosen the right size and shape of helmet, try it on to check that the fit is correct. The helmet should fit snugly on your head, neither too tight nor too loose. It should cover your forehead and go down to the base of your skull.
   
   

By following these 4 steps, you are able to choose a motorcycle helmet that perfectly suits the shape and size of your head. Remember to replace your motorcycle helmet regularly, approximately every five years.

3. Weight and aerodynamics

To refine your choice of helmet, take into consideration the weight and aerodynamics of the helmet to optimize your comfort during your long motorcycle journeys. The weight as well as the force of the wind exerting some force on your helmet can be unpleasant if you drive for a long time. So choose a helmet with an aerodynamic and lightweight design. It will be much more pleasant for you when you ride.

4. The closing system

There are several types of closure systems for motorcycle helmets. The most common are the double D buckle system, the rack and pinion closure system and the micrometric closure system.

The double D buckle system is considered one of the safest and most reliable closure systems. However, it can be difficult to properly adjust and put in place, which can be a disadvantage for some riders.

The rack and pinion closure system is easy to use and adjust, but it may not be as secure as the double D buckle system. However, many modern helmets use improved rack and pinion closure systems which are more reliable.

The micrometric closure system is also easy to use and adjust, but is generally considered less secure than other closure systems. However, some motorcycle helmet models use high-quality micrometric closure systems that can provide a sufficient level of security.

With all this information, you are finally able to choose the ideal motorcycle helmet for you on our site.