Looks like I am going to end up on a course someday, and if I am going to spend $2 might as well spend $3.50. I need a SA2005 helmet, but they all seem dull. I know it's mainly about "not dying", but I was wondering if any of you have advice on a fun/neato helmet or place to peruse?

 

I have had two Simpson race helmets. Current one is an SA2005. Fits good, comfortable and looks good:
NASCAR Helmets | Simpson | Best Auto Racing Helmet Manufacturer

http://www.summitracing.com/search/brand/simpson-racing

 

I think the 2005 is fast approaching its best before date. I'd check with whichever group you would most likely run with to be sure.
Remember the motorcycle rider's maxim.....if you have a $2 head, buy a $2 helmet.
Helmets.com is a pretty good site as I recall.
Looking forward to my first R coupe track day....though only 5-600 km on it so far. The 1' of snow yesterday doesn't help the acquiring Kms task.

 

Here's a good bang for the buck helmet:

https://store.windingroad.com/bell-r...015-p1456.aspx

 

+1. With the intro of the SA2015 standard last October, it's just a matter of time before the clubs regulate the SA2005 into oblivion.

 

Yes, us motorcyclists have heard that once or twice! Then there is this;



http://blm.io/blog/motorcycle-helmet-safety-price/

I think I have 9 helmets at the moment....some were fairly expensive, some only moderately so.

Cheers,
Dave

 

I really like my HJC helmet. Can't recommend it enough.

http://hjc-motorsports.com/

 

My motorcycle helmets have mostly been Shoei, at least for the last 20 years, because they fit the shape of my head.

My car helmet is SA2005, and due for replacement. It's a Bell. I tried on many helmets and it was the only one that fit comfortably. Not that the shop had a wall of helmets like Cycle Gear does but they probably had ten models on display with several sizes of each.


Some groups allow motorcycle helmets in HPDE. NASA did when I last drove with them (really well run event, by the way, and at Sonoma Raceway!) but for automotive use an automotive helmet is better. I've been meaning to go up to Wine Country Motorsports' store at the track and see what they've got.

 

I was told 2005, but realize it's worth checking out a 2010. I was sort of hoping to hit the moment when '05 phases and '10 get marked down a bit for the '15 standard coming down the pike. Or is it SA2020?

Thanks for these suggestions. Guess I get a boring helmet and break out my sticker bag.

 

Had no idea! That is about a 23 minute drive from my house. Well well well. I love free shipping, but I am happy to pay a few bucks in gas to go peruse and shop local. Very well done. Thanks.

 

due to price?

 

Why? Not trying to be argumentative, I'm just not aware of the differences; I've been riding and racing motorcycles since 1973 but I've never purchased an automotive specific helmet.

Thanks,
Dave

 

Generally, I'd suggest (also as indicated in the link I posted earlier) that you pay more for a helmet for fit, comfort, weight, aesthetics and features....not necessarily safety. There are $200 helmets that protect as well as $1,000 ones.

Dave

 

Fit and comfort. I had to get their XXL helmet and it fit really well.

 

I was told due to fire/melting resistance. You are not likely to burn in a motorcycle accident, the same is not true for automotive applications.

 

Makes perfect sense to me; thanks. I was stuck on trying to figure out the impact side of the equation.

Dave

 

I got my SA2005 marked down because the 2010s were in. The only group I've driven with that required SA (LeMONS) gives the certification 10 years, but has typically given a one year extension for the new certification to become readily available. The word from the LeMONS powers that be is that the 2015 standard is enough improved that it's worth it. That's wheel to wheel competition though. Any 2010s in stock will likely be marked down.

I'll send you a PM.

 

That's the other part of it. As it was explained to me:

Motorcycle helmets are designed to take a big hit (pavement). Auto helmets are designed to take multiple smaller hits (banging around while strapped inside a cage). It's a matter of shell strength and impact-absorbing liner. That, and the fire resistance.

 

The SA 2015 was just released last October, so the SA2020 will not be issued for another 4.5 years or so.

 

For those wondering, here are the main differences between M and SA ratings:

1) The SA helmets must have a Nomex fabric liner and are therefore more fire resistant for auto racing.

2) The SA standard allows a minimum eyeport size that is smaller than the minimum allowed for the M standard

3) The SA helmets must pass a test designed to simulate impact with a rollbar.


As far as price goes, with the higher prices helmets you get some of the following:

* Better ventilation
* Lighter weight
* Better fitment (padding)

I will say, the weight and ventilation (if you are going for a full face helmet) are the main two reasons to spend some extra money.

If you really want a cool helmet, you can always get them painted. There are many places around the world that will customize your helmet for you. Here are some examples in the USA:

CC Custom Coatings & Graphics...Custom Paint That Rocks! - Helmet Custom Paint
Custom Helmet Painting and Design