Parts of a Motorcycle Helmet

The helmet is the most important riding gear to be used by a rider; you can see an intelligent and responsible rider wearing one. It is a piece of equipment that a rider can use in order to protect his head in an event of a crash.

How does a Helmet protect the rider?

Helmets offer two types of protection, the shell and liner acts by spreading the forces of impact throughout the helmet material opposed to the energy being directed to your head. That's why, in most cases, if a helmet has been dropped or damaged in an accident, it may be lesser protective value after that incident.

A helmet has four basic components:

1)     The Outer Shell

The outer shell protects against puncture and abrasion - without it your skin and bone of your head would be scrapping across the road. Outer Shell is the hardest part of the helmet, some outer shell where made of Polycarbonate, Fiber glass, Carbon fiber or Kevlar. This keeps the head protected from scratches or pointed objects penetrating to your head.

2)      The Impact Absorbing liner

The inner liner absorbs shock energy by slowly collapsing under impact - if not for this absorption all of the energy from a crash would be transferred to your head instead. It is made of expanded polystyrene or EPS; it is design to collapse as it absorbs the impact which is meant for your head. Once it is deformed, do not use your helmet again. You have to replace your helmet every 5 years, the life span from the date you purchase the helmet.

3)      The comfort padding

The comfort padding is the one on top of your head and keeps you comfortable; it also has check pads to prevent your helmet from moving from side to side. You can choose the size of your helmet thru the comfort padding, make sure it is snugly fits your head.

4)      The retention System/Chin Strap

The retention system or chin strap is the only part that keeps your helmet on your head, make sure before riding to strap and lock it in your chin to prevent it from leaving your head in case of an accident.  

Watch out for my next blog, how to properly choose a helmet, what are the standards you need to know in purchasing one. Ride safe riders!

*Thank you Sir Ryan Chow, Rockler and Jeff of Motoworld and Motomarket