Open Face vs Full Face

[TTaM]

I'm in the market for a new helmet. I used to have a full face snell rated motorcycle helmet but it was damaged in an accident last year.

I am going to use it for mainly auto-x. I've never done a track day, but don't want to rule it out in the future. Do most track days require full face helmets?

Any helmet recommendations?

Right now I have my eye on this one: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/G-FOR...ht_1111wt_1172

[TTaM]

Or maybe this one?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...ht_1085wt_1172

[Aaron]

I prefer a full face helmet for my racing, we are required to have the windows open so you never know when a piece of debris might make its way into your face. If you plan on just auto-xing or doing lapping days I think the SA2000 will be good for a while (dont quote me on that) however you might want to spend a little more for a SA 2005 or SA 2008 rated helmet if you plan on gong to a door to door type of racing.

Good luck on the purchase!

Aaron

[EWAustin]

rule one. NEVER buy a helmet without trying it the exact helmet you're going to buy first. Not just the same model, but the exact one.

rule two. If you don't know how to properly fit a helmet, get someone at the store to help you. They should be TIGHT.

rule three. Buy the newest helmet that meets your sanctioning body's requirements that you can afford. That way it'll be usable for a long time.

I've had good experiences with Bob's cycle supply in Shoreview. Good Luck!

(Also, the Minnesota Autosports Club requires Snell 2000 or newer. M or SA rating doesn't matter, as long as it's 2000 or newer)

[A4Rob]

Definitely get fit properly. Go to ApexSPG in Oakdale. www.apexspg.com

[Topher]

rule one. NEVER buy a helmet without trying it the exact helmet you're going to buy first. Not just the same model, but the exact one.

rule two. If you don't know how to properly fit a helmet, get someone at the store to help you. They should be TIGHT.

rule three. Buy the newest helmet that meets your sanctioning body's requirements that you can afford. That way it'll be usable for a long time.

I've had good experiences with Bob's cycle supply in Shoreview. Good Luck!

(Also, the Minnesota Autosports Club requires Snell 2000 or newer. M or SA rating doesn't matter, as long as it's 2000 or newer)

THIS!


I prefer open face. It looks dorky but works better.

Especially if you have to talk to an instructor, etc.

Look at stage rally drivers... open face.

[Die Frau]

I have an open face. I look like a tool in it.

[EWAustin]

I should also state, that I have a closed face, but prefer open.

[Champ]

I have both!

I use mostly the open face for regular events that don't require the use of full face SA rated.

I will note that I have never driven my Viggen in an event that required the use of a SA full face (or full face M).

Also, Bob's cycle supply is an AWESOME place, along with dennis kirk (www.denniskirk.com) as they have usually some kickass close out deals.

[Feffman]

I have a full face Simpson Speedway Shark that I've used in both closed and open cars. I prefer the full face for the added measure of protection. Visit Simpson at www.TeamSimpson.com.

Feff

[SlimMJS]

this is all I think about when I think open-face. Hahahahahhahaaaaaa.....

[Stig]

be sure what ever helmet you get, be sure it's a Snell SA2005, (2000's expire next year for many sanctioning bodies).

The rule of thumb I follow, if your life is worth $99, buy a $99 helmet, if your life is worth something, spend accordingly. I don't make a living in a race car, but I bough the same helmet as many who do.

[EWAustin]

I wouldn't bother with the extra cost of an "SA" rated helmet vs an "M" rated helmet. The only difference is the Nomex lining. (unless of course you're going to be driving a race car and have a full nomex suit on. Then it makes sense)

[Champ]

Yup, SA isn't worth the extra price unless you a) have the rest of the gear and b) are required to wear it.

[Stig]

to those who say an SA rating isn't worth it, I ask you seek out the difference in the M vs SA rating requirements.

The biggest reason I say get an SA isn't the nomex lining (not part of the requirement at all BTW) it's that an SA helmet must take 3 higher force impacts than the 1 needed for the M test.