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Opposite Lock Binky Siddayao
Technical Editor Binky P. Siddayao OPPOSITE LOCK
BALLS OR BRAINS?
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There are different international regulations when it comes to helmets.
When we begin talking about helmets we tend to get into heated debates over what helmet style is best. A Closed. An Open. Most common everyone should agree on is if you are going to buy a helmet make sure it works in your favor. No matter which motorsport or leisure sport you are in.
A knock-off helmet will highly guarantee that it has not been properly tested. Imagine your helmet splitting open like a coconut from the lightest impacts. If the price is too good to be true – it may probably be a fake.
Motorcycle helmets have constantly evolved to keep up with technological advancements, this includes the use of lighter materials for reduced strain on the neck, additional padding for extra comfort, Bluetooth speakers to allow you to take advantage of your smartphone’s capabilities such as navigation, music or hands-free calling, and much more. Although motorcycle helmets continue to build out these innovative features, the core anatomy of the motorcycle helmet has remained the same for decades.
The four main components to the motorcycle or automotive helmet: the outer shell, impactabsorbing liner, padded comfort layer, and retention system/chin strap. These components of the helmet each serve a specific purpose and contribute to keeping your head safe.
The fit of the helmet on your head is critical to finding the best helmet for you. When you start looking for a helmet, you should take a measurement completely around your head just above your eyebrows. Various manufacturer’s helmet will fit slightly differently, so a small in one brand may fit like a medium in another.
You will most likely be looking to have a helmet which has intercom capabilities for Rallying. Before selecting which helmet, know what type of intercom you have in your car.
Make sure they are compatible upon determining what type of intercom your car has fitted, or which you are intending to fit, you can then look at whether you would prefer a full or an open face helmet. Most rally competitors prefer an open face helmet because of the better overall visibility and contiguous awareness, but you can use either depending on which you feel more comfortable with.
If for circuit racing in either single seaters or saloon cars the type of helmet that you need to be looking for is more of a straightforward choice.
Obviously any driver racing a single seater must wear a fullface helmet. For saloon circuit racing the choice of helmet type is less constrained, meaning that the driver can wear either a full face or an open face helmet depending again on personal preferences and fit.
Always check with race organizers for regulations on safety.
And NEVER lend your helmet.
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