The technology behind motorcycle helmets today is by far better than ever.

First thing to think about is to only choose motorcycle helmets that are DOT approved. I don't recommend the novelty helmets at all. If you are going to wear one, make sure it's an approved model. The new technology in helmets is not only used to provide fit and comfort, but for communication as well. Most people when purchasing a motorcycle helmet look for things like the color or does it look cool. Well that might be well and good for just fooling around on the local streets but get out onto the road and under a helmet for 10 hours. Now we're talking needing some serious comfort. There is also the need or desire for communication in a new helmet. From intercom to Bluetooth there is a multitude of ways to communicate.

Let's first look at the basics, the fit. There are a couple ways that helmets are constructed, but most of the ones for motorcycles will be made of fiberglass or lexan. The lexan I found to be lighter in weight so that is what I prefer. The inside will be constructed of Styrofoam either in a complete shell or in small molded pieces that are distributed around the inside of the shell at various places. Helmets that have a complete shell are more difficult to fit to a person’s head. Try to get something that will contact a large portion of your head equally all around. This will keep you from getting hot spots. You can use a skull cap to help out but nothing works better than making sure the helmet fits in the first place.

The lining is something else to consider, since your head will be right against it. If the motorcycle helmet has a removable and or replaceable lining, that would be the best. By replacing the lining once a year, you get new foam and the helmet fits again like new. Also look to see if the lining is washable. Nothing like a smelly helmet from miles and miles of sweat. If not, you can use products like "Fabreze" or other fresheners on the market to keep them fresh and fight odors.

There are a couple of different straps you can get too. The traditional "Double D Ring" is the old stand by and works well, but a bayonet style gives you the easy of removal and adjustability that makes things easier when putting your helmet on and off. Just make sure if you get a bayonet style, get a helmet hanger to fit. Some are wider than others and can create problems when trying to lock up your helmet.

Visors are great to have. They keep out bugs, glare, cold etc. Just make sure that they are easy to change out or lift up etc. You should never drive at night with a tinted visor so make sure to have a clear one and change them out appropriately. Store the one not being used in a microfiber cloth or bag to keep scratches down to a minimum. And if you should get them scratched to where you have trouble seeing, buy a new one. It makes no sense trying to work the scratches out with buffers and polish etc.

Communications are the newest and hottest thing going. Either full headsets and microphone or a Bluetooth ear-piece, technology is creeping into our lives all over the place. The full wired headsets are still a great way to go. I would have the headset manufacturer install them so that you can maintain a level of warrantee for the install. Bluetooth is becoming more and more common in a helmet. They allow for all sorts of hookups for basic intercom to GPS and Cell Phones. Just a word of caution, manipulating GPS and Cell Phones while riding can be dangerous and in some states, illegal. Please pay attention to your driving and your state laws.

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