Your helmet is a crucial part of riding a motorcycle. Designed to protect you from serious injury, knowing what goes into yours can make all the difference. But what are motorcycle helmets made of, and what makes a good one? This article will examine the components of a strong motorbike helmet, from the parts you can’t see to the parts that help you see.
When the motorcycle helmet was invented, it looked like a thin leather cap. But times have changed. Made from three materials, helmets are; polycarbonates, fibreglass, and carbon fibre. Each has its pros and cons.
Polycarbonate helmet:
Made of rigid plastic, this is the cheapest option on the market. The lower price points of this material make them great for those on a budget and are capable of taking a bashing. This toughness does come at a cost. Polycarbonates are very heavy and often lack features standard on more expensive helmets.
Fibreglass helmet:
Lighter than polycarbonates, fibreglass is a reinforced plastic woven with glass and held by a binding resin. Fibreglass helmets are cheaper in comparison to carbon helmets and are still lightweight. They’re also more durable than carbon and are less likely to show wear and tear. Still, the lightweight material does make them more brittle than carbon.
Carbon helmet:
The premium product out of the three. The carbon fibre weave maintains a high rigidity and an elite level of performance. Lighter than the above helmets and usually more aerodynamic too. Durability does become an issue after a crash, but we recommend replacing your helmet even if you only take a small bump. While many carbon fibre helmets offer bland designs, Ruroc has a range to choose from.
The inner shell of your motorbike helmet
The outer shell is there for integrity and performance, but below the surface is what protects your head. The EPS (expanded polystyrene foam) makes up the middle of your motorcycle helmet. In a crash, the EPS cushions the impact before it meets your brain by compressing the forces in a controlled manner. Think of it like bubble wrap for the brain - with beads in the EPS that burst and disperse the blow of a crash. But they only burst once. This is why we encourage replacing your helmet even after minor falls.
How motorbike helmet liners protect your head
While the EPS defends your brain, the inner liner fights against impact. This is why Ruroc uses RHEON™ technology. RHEON™ liners control direct and rotational forces by reactively stiffening upon impact to reduce energy passed through and into the head.
MIPS helmet liners are another option. MIPS (multi-directional impact protection system) focuses on rotational and angular energy allowing the helmet to slip independently on impact.
Both offer excellent grades of protection, but it’s important to note the drawbacks of each one. While RHEON™ liners mould to the shape of your skull, they are only available in Ruroc helmets. MIPS allows your head to keep moving in the case of a crash to avoid concussion. However, it’s argued that helmets move on their own in the event of a crash. Instead, having a thicker liner might offer better protection.
The fastener or buckle is the component you interact with the most. Crucial in keeping your motorbike helmet on your head, your fastener should quickly release. There are two main types of helmet fasteners: The double D ring and the FIDLOCK.
What is a double-D ring fastener:
A double-D ring is two metal rings shaped like a D attached to a webbing strap. This buckle is lightweight and less complex to use than other fasteners. Its main benefit is you can always maintain strap tension on your chin. Although, a double-D can be challenging to lock with gloves on.
What is A FIDLOCK helmet buckle:
FIDLOCK fasteners use a hook and magnet to clip together. This way, the fastener naturally snaps shut. Ideal if you need a quick and easy release. The main setback is the tension between your chin and strap can come loose over time.
Ruroc helmets offer both double-D rings and FIDLOCK fasteners. Before deciding which is right for you, consider what kind of riding you do. In certain countries, roads or tracks will require a specific type of fastener.
A clear line of sight down the tarmac is as important as a solid shell to protect your head. The better you can see, the less likely you are to crash. To keep vision failure to a minimum, motorbike helmet visors use polycarbonate ballistic-grade plastics. A multi-layer structure means any damage your visor receives prevents it from ‘spider webbing’ or shattering on impact.
Visors also come in various colours and tints to suit conditions and style choices. Tinted or photochromic visors remove the need to wear sunglasses under your helmet, which can cause severe damage to your face in a crash.
Now you know the ins and outs of what a motorcycle helmet is made of, all you need to do is choose one. Ruroc has the highest standard of safety ratings, and with designs that get heads turning, it’s up there with the best in style standards. Browse our site to find one right for you.
When the motorcycle helmet was invented, it looked like a thin leather cap. But times have changed. Modern helmets are made from various materials including polycarbonates, fibreglass and carbon fibre. What goes into the making of a helmet is something we get asked about all of the time. From the materials that visors are made of, all the way to EPS shell that protects your head from impacts. Here's everything you need to know.