Types of Motor cycle Helmets

Choosing a motor cycle helmet is probably the most important thing you can do when you become a motor cycle enthusiast. Riding a motorcycle can be a dangerous activity, that's why it is necessary to know what are the basic types of motor cycle helmets available to you as well as how safe they are. In general there are 5 different types of motor cycle helmets

Full Face Motor cycle Helmet

The full face helmet offers the greatest protection for its rider in the case of a crash. The helmet covers the entire head, face, and chin. The area around the eyes and nose is open, and has a clear face shield for visibility. The face shield is often capable of swiveling to allow view of the face. These kinds of motor cycle helmets use to have issues with ventilation; however, modern full face motor cycle helmets overcome this problem with strategically placed vents that still maintain the structural soundness of the helmet. The presence of the chin protection in this helmet can be a live saver since almost 35% of crashes show significant damage to the chin area.

Off Road (Motocross) Motor cycle Helmet

An off road helmet is meant for dirt biking and motocross. It is usually distinguished with its angular chin bar and extended visor. The face area around the face and nose is often left open to allow for the option of wearing goggles. The visor itself can restrict some visibility, but can be indispensible for keeping the sun out of the rider's eyes especially if the rider is engaging in motocross jumps. Generally the off road helmet's protection is slightly less to that of the full face helmet since the face area is usually covered with goggles instead of a face shield.

Convertible or Flip-Up Motor cycle Helmet

This type of motor cycle helmet is often considered a cross between a full face helmet and an open face helmet. When in the closed position it resembles a full face helmet and provides some safety during face impacts due to the chin bar. The chin bar itself can pivot to allow access to the rider's face. In some models the chin bar can be removed altogether. In this configuration it resembles an open faced helmet. The convertible helmet is suitable if a rider needs to eat or drink without undoing the chin strap. Very often these types of helmets are used by law enforcement.

3/4 Motor cycle Helmet or Open Face

The three-quarters motor cycle helmet is similar in appearance to a full faced helmet with one notable exception - the lack of a chin bar. It also may or may not include a face shield. Usually it is possible to add a visor to reduce sun glare. Unfortunately while providing good protection to the back and top of the head, the front face region is left relatively unprotected. The lack of front protection is not just in case of a crash but also during a ride, bugs, dust, or wind can become a dangerous distraction. In these cases it is wise to consider adding a face shield to the front of the helmet. While a face shield won't offer the same protection as a full faced helmet, it will reduce distractions of bugs and dust.

Half Motor cycle Helmet

The half motor cycle helmet provides the least protection of all the motor cycle helmets. Like the open faced helmet the half helmet has an open face, but unlike the open faced helmet, a half helmet also has a raised rear. The raised rear exposes the back of the head to potential injury. A half helmet often provides the minimum amount of protection required by law. Also half helmets have the possibility of shifting position during a crash. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation does not allow half helmets to be used during training programs due the their lack of protection when compared to other types of helmets.

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