I have just started trying out different types of racing and was wondering if there is one type of helmet that would work well for all forms:smile:

 

It depends on what you're doing, you basically choose between open, hybrid, or full face. Hybrid is like a full face with out the clear shield. The hybrid typically also gives a larger opening for the eyes.

If you'll be in any type of open vehicle you'll need a full face. Even if you're racing a sedan, a full face covers many (un)likelihoods.

If you're doing autocross or driver's ed days on a track, either the open face or hybrid will do. The hybrid will give you more protection. I do track days and opted for a hybrid for the full face protection, because I noticed that many instructors who had the shield, either didn't use it, or totally removed it from their helmet.

IF I were ever in a position to get involved competitively, I'd get the full face with shield.

Good luck!

 

for autocross, a snell 95 or newer motorcycle helmet should be fine. I think even snell 90's are okay depending on where you run.

However, if you really want helmet that you can use anywhere, you'll need an SA 2000 full face (full face for open wheel cars, karts, etc).

SA is 'special application', and basically it has a fire proof liner. These helmets are required for club racing and some "track day" type events, etc.

 

Look for a Snell SA 2000 rating. if you go to a motorcycle helmet shop, most if not all of their helmets will be M rated. The difference being SA has a fire retardant liner and the M does not. Some good places to look on line are ogracing.com and http://www.soloracer.com/mini.html

 

Thank you for clarifying the safety classifications, mine is SA2000.

 

For those events you wish to attend check to see the requirements for helmets.

Open vs closed face is your choice. Many of the instructors in my area have open face.

M2000 or SA2000 (more expensive) are good choices. As time goes on most events will require more recently certified helmets like these rather than those from earlier dates.

For some pictures and prices see
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ad.php?t=21733

 

Thanks to all of you for this information. I looked at some of the helmets I think I will try the SA200 I think this type might give better [font='Times New Roman']protection[/font] . Now I need to decide which type.



OR

 

So, MiniMight, we'll be seeing you in your new helmet at Pocono? The 16th or the 25th? Or both?

 

I'll be there not sure yet which of the helmets yet. But I will be there . I went with MONJ drag racing and had a blast.

 

The main difference between the expensive (Kevlar) and moderate priced helmets is weight. You want a light helmet for longer road race events. Be sure to use some type of head restraint or neck brace for ALL track events. A driver was killed recently at Buttonwillow when he went off course and hit an earthen barrior on the passenger side - broke his neck. I used a HANS device with a closed face Kevlar helmet for road racing .

For autocross and driver ed track events (NOT RACING) I have an SA2000 fiberglass Bell medium-price open face, because I can put it on with glasses on, and talk to students more easily.

Cheers,
Dave

 

Also, don't forget that most of the events you will participate in will be in the summer time. I strongly recommend an open face, white helmet for autocross. You spend a lot of time sitting in grid waiting to run, your helmet most likely sits in the seat between runs baking in the sun, and things do heat up.

I will never forget (i.e. forgive) my dear wife who, for my birthday, gave me a black, full face helmet......