There is no aspect of choosing a motorcycle helmet more important than obtaining the proper fit. An improper fit can result in serious injury that might well have been avoided given a good fitting helmet. Fit is really everything when it comes to making sure the helmet will actually protect your head. Do not skimp on this process, make sure it fits!

The first step is to determine if your head is round. Let me save you some time; it’s not. No one’s head is perfectly round but that doesn’t stop the motorcycle helmet manufacturers from basing their size charts on a circle. Well, in their defense, how else would you do it? So given that little jewel of information; how does one make sure we are ordering the correct size motorcycle helmet when buying one on-line?

The definitive answer is, of course, to try one on and then order it on-line, but not everyone has access to the same selection available on the internet, and in fact probably no one does. Not to mention the salesman might not like your window shopping too much. Oh well, that’s his problem, you need a helmet!

Short of getting to actually try one on, the next best thing is to do your due diligence and measure your head properly. A tailors tape works best if you have one (ask your Mom or your Nana) but if you don’t a tailors tape, a piece of string or rope along with a yard stick will do just fine.

1.Wrap the tailors tape or string around your head about 1/2 inch or so above your brow.

2.Pull the tape just taught so that it is comfortable and not pinching you.

3.Note the measure from the tape or if you’re using a string, mark the length and measure that length with the yard stick.

4.Do this three or so times and try to get the same result every time.

5.Should you get different values, go by the largest.

6.Now take a look at the manufacturers Size Chart to find out the right size for you. Note: if your head measures in between sizes listed on the size chart, choose the next largest size

Once you have the hat in your hands, confirm the fit. You can do this by fastening the chin strap firmly so that it is not loose yet does not pinch you chin or neck. Once fastened securely attempt to rock the motorcycle helmet from side to side making sure it does not slide or have too much play. Next, try pushing the helmet front to back. If you can slide the motorcycle helmet forwards until you cannot see or backwards until your forehead is exposed then this helmet does not fit properly.

Remember to replace your helmet every two to three years as liners will wear out over time and the fit will loosen up.

Author Bio: Rock rides Harleys and writes about all things motorcycle. Find out more about motorcycle helmet sizing at LightLids.com

Category: Automotive
Keywords: motorcycle helmets, sizing