The perfect motorcycle helmet: it really depends on that!

The perfect motorcycle helmet: it really depends on that!

Choosing the right motorcycle helmet is a crucial matter for the safety of drivers. As the KStA , there should be sufficient time for the selection when buying. In particular, the fitting and ideally also a test drive are important to ensure that the helmet sits optimally. This should be firm, but not oppressive and do not cause pressure points. A helmet that fits bad could not offer the necessary protection in the event of an accident.

When trying on, it is advisable to wear the helmet for at least ten minutes to get used to the feeling of wearing. It should also be ensured that the chin does not touch the chin protection of the helmet. During a longer test drive, pressure points and wind noise can also be determined, which could also indicate an unsuitable helmet.

new test standards for motorcycle helmets

Apart from comfort and fit, a motorcycle helmet must also meet the legal security standards. The helmet should comply with the ECE R 22.06 standard, which has been in force since January 3, 2021. This new standard replaces the almost 20-year-old ECE 22.05, as the bikerrated . The ECE 22.06 contains numerous innovations, including higher demands on impact speeds and tests at various impact points. From January 2024, the sale of non-ECE 22.06-certified helmets will be illegal, while the current ECE 22.05 helmets may continue to be used.

The new requirements require, among other things, that visors and sun visors are tested under realistic conditions. For example, dark visors must have a translucency of at least 35%. In addition, all helmets are obliged to be provided with reflective stickers in order to increase their visibility in road traffic. These changes also have financial effects: Experts appreciate a price increase of around 5% for new helmets and accessories.

regular helmet change

Another important aspect of helmet carrier behavior is the regular exchange. The TÜV Süd recommends replacing helmets after about five to six years because they lose protective effect over time. In addition, the interior of old helmets can be brittle, which endangers security. A helmet should also be replaced after each fall to ensure that protection is still guaranteed. Some experts advise to change helmets after a mileage of around 20,000 kilometers, whereby the actual time depends on individual usage behavior.

After all, it is important to note that the ECE 22.06 standard is also used for some accessories to guarantee security while driving. For example, all modular helmets must be tested with both and without facial protection. These current developments show that the helmet is not only a fashionable accessory, but also an indispensable safety factor for motorcyclists.