By far the most important factor is that a helmet feel - and look - good enough that you'll wear it each and every time you ride. Comfort depends on weight, venting, noise level, and especially fit. Heads come in different shapes, so you need to find a helmet that fits your dome.

Here's an article that summarizes (and contributes to) the debate about whether helmets built to Snell standards are less safe than softer helmets.

http://motorcyclistonline.com/gearbo...helmet_review/

 

Weight is a big factor. My head is huge and my giant Shoei RF-1000 is much lighter than a lot of small $80 helmets. I guess it all comes down to how much you value what's in your head and how much you're willing to spend on it. Personally I would never buy the cheapest helmet I could find.

 

I have 2 KBC helmets and couldnt be happier with the both of them...they are on the middle end of the spectrum...160 and 142 ..but as mentioned im not trusting my head to a bandana and some shades...so its all about how much u think your brain is worth...bottom line...and some kewl graffix help too...

 

thanks for the help everyone

 

Here's a recent post I had on my Arai

https://cbrforum.com/m_98575/tm.htm

I stand by my Arai, it's light, well ventilated, minimizes noise, and they have great customer service. Oh and did I mention the graphics are SICK!! I got mine in Japan so I got it for a really good price, about 1/2 the price of retail back here in Canada. I'm willing to pay a little extra for my head cuz I know it's worth it. But it is up to personal preference so definately try some on and see how they feel. Don't go cheapy, something at least in the $150-200 range depending on what kind of riding you're doing and such. I heard ScorpionEXO helmets are pretty good too and not too expensive. I looked at some and might consider getting one for a secondary passenger helmet later on. But as for me, I'm stickin' with my Arai. Hope this helps, ride safe.

 

i had a suomy spec 1r until i hit my head on a curn\b the other night. i am going to presume it is done so i went and bought the scorpion exo 700. definitely a diffrence between the helmets, i had bought a scorpion because i heard thewy were grewat but it is heavier and the padding isn't as soft as the suomy but still pretty satisfied with it. i would recommend it for the price you get features of more expensive helkmets.

 

I have an HJC CL 12, HJC has a good selection of styles and provide good protection without breaking the bank.

 

Hey,
I have had alot of different helmets, kinda been picky looking for one that fits well, well made and is quiet. Here's what I've found so far on a scale of 1 to 10, 10 being the best.

1. Bieffe -4
2. Nolan -4 average helment
3. MDS -3 bad fit
4. KBC Force RR -3 poor quality, noisy
5. Shoei RF-200 -9 just and old lid that's awsome but fogs a little
6. Shoei RF-700 -8 bigger and noiser than above

Currently I'm using my old school Shoei RF-200 as I can't find a better replacement but I'd like to try a Suomy or Vemar.