Motocross helmets are specifically designed for two specific purposes: protection and comfort. But their shape is quite different from ordinary street bike helmets – many beginner bikers ask why.
Motocross helmets have different shapes from street bike helmets because they have different functions. Helmets for motocross need to offer effective dust protection, sun protection and being waterproof, since those are the elements these bikers meet. Motocross helmets also require proper ventillation, and lightweight design.
Characteristics of Motocross Helmets
Motocross helmets are also much more lightweight and feature additional padding, both of which lead to sound reduction and airflow. In addition, many helmets have wrap-around protection for the back of the head.
These helmets also tend to have vents and some sort of visor. This helps to reduce glare, especially when conditions get a little tough, and it helps to see what’s going on behind you better, especially if your motocross bike is custom built.
Many motorcycle helmets offer a shield or sunglass that goes over the entire face with a frame to secure it, but many are available without a frame. The face shield is also required to meet certain standards set by the Department of Transportation (DOT).
High-quality helmets will last longer, have more protective padding and an inner liner that does not collect sweat and air and cause the helmet to feel cooler.
Motocross Helmet Materials
In addition to protecting the eyes, protecting the cheeks and chin is also an important factor in an effective helmet, as riders can quickly and easily feel the effects of a bad hit on these areas if not wearing the right goggles.
Motocross goggles will often be made with lightweight materials, such as polycarbonate lenses, which offer lightweight protection without compromising the comfort of the rider. With the right pair of goggles a rider can feel confident that his or her eyes and face are protected during a ride and can experience a sense of confidence and safety that often cannot be achieved through purely protective eyewear.
Motocross Helmets with Aerodynamic Design
Many modern motocross helmets have what is referred to as an aerodynamic design, which refers to a shape that reduces the drag on the face and the creation of a streamlined, air-cooled, efficient wind tunnel through which airflow flows.
A major benefit of the aerodynamic shape is that it decreases the lift force that is placed upon the head, which creates an increased drag clearance and allows for a reduced amount of airflow to enter the mask. The increased drag clearance improves handling and maneuverability. This allows for a more aerodynamic top speed and reduced overall drag, as well as improved control responses.
Motocross Helmets FAQ
Why Do Motocross Helmets Have a Peak?
The motocross helmet peak will protect the eyes and face from objects thrown up by other riders. The peak also helps to deflect tree branches to protect the rider’s eyes and maintain vision. In addition, it keeps the sun and rain out of the rider’s face. It helps to keep debris out of the eyes, which may become inflamed and compromise the rider’s safety.
Why Do Motocross Helmets Have Visors?
Motocross helmets have visors to protect the face during riding. The pieces of debris flying towards the rider’s face can be small rocks, tree branches, dirt, mud, water or other debris. At high speeds these particles can be extremely harmful to the eyes and face, so it’s important to protect yourself from objects thrown up mostly by other riders.
Why Do Motocross Helmets Use Goggles?
Goggles are used with motorcross helmets because they seal out dirt from the rider’s eyes better than any street helmet. Goggles with a ‘nose mask’ are especially good to keep out large amounts of dirt and rain. In the winter it can get really cold for motocross riders – many motocross helmet users use snowmobile or ski goggles to get warmer.
Why do Motocross Helmets Have a Pointed Chin?
Motorcross helmets have pointed and enforced chins to protect the chin to the highest possible extent. Pointed chins also allow a fresh airflow, so it is easier to breathe in these helmets, and it won’t get that hot as in street helmets. This breathing design also helps to avoid fogging up the face shield, and provide an aerodynamic shape design.
